tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57798584158775730172024-02-22T17:05:13.057-05:00Stowe Mountain Club and Stowe Country Club Turf BlogGolf maintenance updates for The Mountain Course and Stowe Country Clubsmgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comBlogger42125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-84114394908372074372020-01-09T13:05:00.000-05:002020-01-09T13:05:53.401-05:00The Voodoo We Do<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's a passion. Yes, it's a job but it's a passion for most of us tending golf courses for a living. It creeps into your bloodstream and becomes part of your DNA. There are a multitude of factors that create this passion; going to work long before the rest of the world wakes up, seeing the sunrise everyday, orchestrating the daily production of course preparations, seeing the results of your plan play out in real time, the knowledge that your hard work will be enjoyed by many people, being tuned into the natural world, feeling the harshness and beauty of Mother Nature, growing high performance turfgrass, preparing a venue for sport competition, being part of an industry that fosters a special camaraderie, and the list goes on.</div>
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It doesn't matter that we are often the underdogs who never get the credit. It really doesn't matter because we revel in the grit. It's who we are. Often times golf course superintendents and their teams are asked to do more with less. It is to our downfall and the golfers benefit that we will never let the conditions slip in this scenario. It is in our make up that we will always go above and beyond to create incredible playing conditions and experiences no matter what obstacles are placed in our way.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team members working hard repairing winter-kill spots</td></tr>
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The men and women that make up our teams are often subject to this passion. It rubs off on them and they are bitten by the "turf bug". Once bitten, the common goal of creating a great golfing experience becomes their passion as well. Some often go off to get an education in turfgrass science to further their career. We thank all of the hard working individuals that often times work on the course as a seasonal job trying to make ends meet. With a solid grounds crew team that shares the same goal and believes in the mission, the work becomes enjoyable. </div>
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The spring of 2019 was a definite test of our fortitude. Coming off of an epic snowfall winter (with an undercoating of ice) and then into a very wet and cold extended spring made for some rough days. Both courses did suffer some turf injury. Stowe Country Club had various spots on multiple greens with winter-kill. The Mountain Course suffered three acres of fairway damage. The damage at The Mountain Course was the most I have seen in my fifteen years there. The attempts to grow these areas back with seed was difficult due to the cold and wet conditions. The Mountain Course sodded half of the area damaged on the fairways. This was made more difficult by the fact that all of the sod farms in New England and Quebec either ran out of creeping bentgrass sod or had low quality sod due to this same bad weather. Nonetheless, by the Kirkwood Invitational in late June at SCC and July 4th on the Mountain Course we were back to normal. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stowe Country Club<br />
Changing cups during Stowe Balloon Fest</td></tr>
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Last year brought some exciting news. Stowe Country Club has moved up the ranks in the rotation of Vermont tournaments. After two successful years (2017 and 2018) of VTPGA stroke play championships and this year being the host of the VGA Senior Amateur, we were chosen to host the 2020 Vermont Amateur tournament. The grounds crew team and I are very proud to host this event and look forward to putting our passion to the test. Preparations to the course began this past fall and continue through the winter for this event that will be played in early July. We are dedicated to producing a championship venue that will make our members and ownership proud.</div>
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Cheers to a successful 2020 golf season and to the pledge that our passion will always run deep...</div>
smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-55446235653787708702019-04-28T12:55:00.002-04:002019-04-29T17:59:56.049-04:00Keeping An Eye On The FutureIn Keith Cutten's wonderful new book, <em>The Evolution of Golf Course Design, </em>he references a quote from the great golf course architect, Alister MacKenzie:<br />
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"Golf is a game, and talk and discussion is all to the interests of the game. Anything that keeps the game alive and prevents us being bored with it is an advantage. Anything that makes us think about it, talk about it, and dream about it is all to the good and prevents the game becoming dead."<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mountain Course first tee project. Notice die-back in trees.</td></tr>
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This quote reflects our work conducted on both courses this winter. We believe that it is important to continually make noticeable enhancements to the courses. The projects initiated this winter were focused on developing a fresh new look and feel to selected areas of each golf course. At The Mountain Course we have begun a project on the first tee. This tee box has two tree islands that border it. The trees in both of these areas are showing signs of stress due to the exposed nature of the site. The trees on the golfers left have been particularly impacted and in various stages of decline. During the winter months we cleared all of the trees in this left side island. The next phase of the project is to haul in fill material and create a substantial mounded feature. This mound area will be planted with wonderful fine fescue grass. The clearing work has opened up a great view of Spruce Peak to the north. Now, with views of Mount Mansfield to the west, Spruce Peak to the north and the Worcester range to the south, the setting for the opening tee at the Mountain Course will be even more visually stunning.<br />
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A second enhancement project at The Mountain Course that we conducted this winter focused on tree thinning the area left of nine fairway. This project is being done to open up small visual windows of the green complex from the tee. The thinning will give the ninth tee shot a different feel and provide the golfer a sneak peek to their final destination on this short dogleg left. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stowe Country Club white pine grove before.</td></tr>
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At Stowe Country Club, our focus continues to be on projects that enhance the views and highlight the iconic rolling Vermont topography. These two characteristics of the golf course give it an authentic identity. We feel strongly that the future of Stowe Country Club is not in the pine and spruce trees that proliferate on the property but rather the mountain views and rolling topography. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlvvwEl74jlZQX9Puuoz1VnjUtfODI4OxhMU-k9_hB0-8ncjI59Nwh0UrTJEtNK0yi-zvH1WwC6QX16xGewgm-MkpFoWB1xsMNIUUDTyZUlW21RbN9u23mzf-0r5CjFliPyhZ-4hwIoo/s1600/After.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhlvvwEl74jlZQX9Puuoz1VnjUtfODI4OxhMU-k9_hB0-8ncjI59Nwh0UrTJEtNK0yi-zvH1WwC6QX16xGewgm-MkpFoWB1xsMNIUUDTyZUlW21RbN9u23mzf-0r5CjFliPyhZ-4hwIoo/s320/After.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stowe Country Club white pine grove after.</td></tr>
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This winter a major tree clearing project was conducted in the vicinity between one fairway and eight green. This grove of trees consisted of strictly white pine that were planted forty years ago. Historic overhead photographs substantiate this. These white pines were dying from inside the grove outward. Many trees were in all stages of die-back. This decline was very evident after wind storms in late 2017 and early 2018 hit the golf course. A significant amount of damage occurred in this grove due complete blow downs and trees snapped in half. With this decline occurring, the large amount of manpower continually being allocated to clean up around it, and the obstructed mountain views the decision was made to look toward the future and remove it. The area is now in the process of being graded and will eventually be seeded to fine fescue. <br />
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As we progress toward opening day at both courses you may encounter work being done to the first tee at The Mountain Course and the clearing work at Stowe Country Club. Thank you for your patience with any disturbance as we strive to enhance both properties by keeping an eye on the future.<br />
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<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-27721438003712605822019-01-01T22:59:00.001-05:002019-01-01T22:59:48.176-05:00The Pursuit of Perfection<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">May 4, 2018 The Uh-Oh Moment</td></tr>
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The beauty and elegance of golf is that it is played outside in nature. Along with the beauty of enjoying the great game of golf outside comes the challenge of dealing with the rough weather. As the debate of climate change roils on, it is clear that weather patterns in the last couple decades have been extreme. Extreme in force and extreme in variation. Working on a golf course places a person on the front line of these extreme weather events, some call it the new normal. <br />
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The 2018 golf season started on October 30, 2017. A massive wind storm roared through Stowe on this day and forever changed the landscape of our town. While The Mountain Course did not suffer any significant damage, Stowe Country Club took a direct hit from the fierce winds. The damage centered around trees and more specifically white pine trees. The white pines at SCC are considered "burly" or "pasture" pines. This designation refers to the structure of a white pine when it grows in an open environment. The tree tends to have many large branches and multiple main stems or leaders. These large trees are ever-present at SCC and whenever the wind blows they shed branches, both large and small. The tree litter and complete blow downs after this historic storm was substantial. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of many white pine branches on October 30, 2017</td></tr>
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Our team arrived back to work in late April 2018. For two weeks we cleaned up the mess from this epic storm. While there are many other chores to do in the spring on a golf course, we endlessly picked up white pine tree debris. After that massive clean-up effort we rallied to open SCC. With all systems go, the unthinkable happened the night before we opened. Another wind storm slammed down on northern Vermont. We were shocked to put it lightly. This storm pummeled us. White pines were once again our enemy number one. The golf course looked like a war zone. Branches everywhere, whole trees down, tops of trees blown off, and huge main branches broken off lying on the ground. The reaction of the team after dealing with now two major wind storms before we even opened for the 2018 golf season was silence. We were stunned and at a loss for words!<br />
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We opened up on schedule that first Saturday in May. It was surreal to say the least. For golf course superintendents, our daily mode of operation is the pursuit of perfection. What defines perfection depends on many different factors. On this opening day in 2018 at Stowe Country Club, with the course in complete disarray, it was perfect because the sun was shining and we were golfing once again after a long winter. Cheers to opening day in 2019. We anxiously await what it brings.smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-63316189681812415342018-04-03T10:03:00.000-04:002018-04-03T16:50:29.085-04:00Winter work: Crucial for a successful golf season<div style="text-align: justify;">
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A common question asked by golfers and non-golfers alike is, "What do you do in the winter?" This question used to annoy me, as I felt the person asking the question was being cynical or critical. Over time I have come to realize that most people really have no idea what a golf course superintendent and team does in the summer, let alone in the winter. Now, when someone asks me what do we do in the winter, I take the time and explain this unique world of a golf course superintendent and greenkeeping.</div>
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Since our golf season in northern Vermont is relatively short -- from early May until late October -- proper preparation leading up to the beginning of the golf season is crucial. We take advantage of winter "down time" to "put the course to bed" properly in November and then spend the balance of the winter and early spring preparing for the intense six month golf season ahead. </div>
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A look at the winter of 2017/18 provides a great example of the work we do.</div>
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<strong>Equipment</strong></div>
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Our fleet of turf care equipment includes very specialized machines. The cost for one mower can run anywhere from $50,000 to $70,000. The replacement value of an average eighteen hole golf course equipment fleet can easily reach and exceed $1 million. Our goal in the winter is to look over each piece with a fine tooth comb and do all the preventive maintenance necessary to withstand six to eight months of constant use. Without this thorough winter maintenance the risk of a mid-season breakdown becomes much more likely. Avoiding a major mid-season repair is our goal. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reels are ground and ready to go.<br />
Grinders on the sides of photo. </td></tr>
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Quality of cut is of high importance to us. The majority of our mowing fleet are reel mowers. A reel mower is used because it can mow turf at low heights due to a cutting action like a scissor. A reel with multiple blades spins at high speeds while a stationary bedknife rides along the ground creating a cutting effect. Both reel blades and bedknives need to be precision ground at least once a year during the winter. This precision grinding is done on specialized grinding lathes in our shops. Think of this grinding process like the way skis and snowboards are ground. Sharp edges with proper angles are needed for the equipment to perform properly. </div>
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<strong>Brush Clearing and Tree Removal</strong></div>
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Golf courses in New England are usually built within some type of forested setting. These forested settings, whether interior or exterior, want to grow. Without the occasional cutting back of the wood lines the forest will choke out the golf course. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocky hillside at SMC being cleared of brush.</td></tr>
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At SMC, the team did great work cutting back the edges on hole seven, twelve, thirteen, and fourteen. A huge brush cutting project was also completed between hole sixteen and seventeen. This rocky hillside was cleared in 2004 to prepare for the construction of the course. Since then, all of the first growth species (cherry, birch, and poplar) vigorously grew back. This new look provides incredible views from sixteen tee and gives seventeen green a much better feel. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq9BCPmP_TB0vrr8qlGHncDDOReFILzE3LoMDHnQcQ1fXvG30MFpEYaD_XJiF9K8ZLo8jMcgdLZWHhg5qMBGtGwUhGh20FvXm3EHbHDYZEZfB5n6nmK2eUsHQYT7sfvPJ4Lp-QSzC3qI/s1600/IMG_0520.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBq9BCPmP_TB0vrr8qlGHncDDOReFILzE3LoMDHnQcQ1fXvG30MFpEYaD_XJiF9K8ZLo8jMcgdLZWHhg5qMBGtGwUhGh20FvXm3EHbHDYZEZfB5n6nmK2eUsHQYT7sfvPJ4Lp-QSzC3qI/s320/IMG_0520.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting, clearing, and burning on fourth tee at SCC</td></tr>
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At SCC, the team worked hard to cut back the edges on hole one and three. On the fourth hole the brush was cut back to the left of the teeing area. This cleared area will be the home of a new back tee. The October wind storm created multiple blow downs that needed to be cleaned up. The wooded area behind the fifth green was hit with six hemlocks that blew over due to the storm. After these areas were cleaned up, we continued with the tree removal program. Our efforts were focused on trees near greens and tees. The criteria for removing a tree has been laid out in a previous post <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=5779858415877573017#editor/target=post;postID=1807678598774407725;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=21;src=postname">SCC TREE REMOVAL PROGRAM</a> . Most of the trees removed are white pine trees. These trees reduce the turf quality because of heavy shading, shallow roots, and copious amounts of tree litter. Along with better playing conditions the removal of white pines allows us to focus man-power on providing great conditions and not spending valuable time picking up pine needles, cones and branches. The added benefit is that previously obstructed mountain views are opened up. </div>
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<strong>Accessory Refurbishing</strong></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF21MvigwAB1tB1PBkfRnffRu78Q4WnN9Cm9mYuJ3VAp65a6Ym8EH4iZ6G1q7Bn7IvIFm64uCWLP7el0lw8y9dVupG7VaQR3dvxlX2DaDA_gdhCJqEcPZmjbVqAjP-hosh049dEcFQk0/s1600/IMG_0763.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieF21MvigwAB1tB1PBkfRnffRu78Q4WnN9Cm9mYuJ3VAp65a6Ym8EH4iZ6G1q7Bn7IvIFm64uCWLP7el0lw8y9dVupG7VaQR3dvxlX2DaDA_gdhCJqEcPZmjbVqAjP-hosh049dEcFQk0/s320/IMG_0763.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Production line of SMC tee markers</td></tr>
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The winter months provide us the opportunity to take stock of all the accessories that are used on the golf course. Items like ball washers, bunker rakes, cart signs, and tee markers are refurbished to make look new again. This year it was determined that new tee markers were needed at both courses. In the spirit of good old fashion Yankee ingenuity and frugality we made them ourselves. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQTzGb5tcMU0Ng9K8Hsp5x2FEhMHcfpoVWAPxAnWUV9Meicug1vX29o7VDtawQEcGWryjfPDIj1HkaBDyAj86k3dprt5gztOut_zQ5eC-tHJwLMdLnNVTbLoAT6mPk9f764qJdZxj-XHI/s1600/IMG_0693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQTzGb5tcMU0Ng9K8Hsp5x2FEhMHcfpoVWAPxAnWUV9Meicug1vX29o7VDtawQEcGWryjfPDIj1HkaBDyAj86k3dprt5gztOut_zQ5eC-tHJwLMdLnNVTbLoAT6mPk9f764qJdZxj-XHI/s320/IMG_0693.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Painting SCC tee markers. <br />
Notice the finished water cooler station in background.</td></tr>
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At SMC, we made the markers out of white birch logs that came from the property. The logs were dried for several months, cut to size, spikes installed, and then the ends were painted. The natural look will fit in with our mountain golf course setting. At SCC, we used cedar posts cut into blocks for the tee marker. The cedar was stained, the sides painted with the appropriate color, and a spike was installed. Both teams did a great job paying close attention to detail and craftsmanship.</div>
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The other big in-house project at SCC was to build new water cooler stations. The old plastic stations were faded and simply had seen their day. These new stations were built by Mark Finch, SCC superintendent. Mark is a great woodworker and put his talents to work with these structures. This new look to the course will be striking. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJJyyVISlWaael52xmIUm_mOw6RzjlUpd2UZ5VjerM3sB9lQFw5EZSnHsnd_fHUgk6R9hVKo3R-W4Zf10Hm-o6BcgCSGbrUxES0gU6IFO3SaNQI3nshiddsNhEu3KXBSzodefbiB91eM/s1600/IMG_0534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJJyyVISlWaael52xmIUm_mOw6RzjlUpd2UZ5VjerM3sB9lQFw5EZSnHsnd_fHUgk6R9hVKo3R-W4Zf10Hm-o6BcgCSGbrUxES0gU6IFO3SaNQI3nshiddsNhEu3KXBSzodefbiB91eM/s320/IMG_0534.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of six water cooler stations under construction.</td></tr>
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<strong>Continuing Education</strong></div>
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The "off" season provides us with the opportunity to attend conferences specific to turf and golf course management. At these events, the networking amongst fellow industry professionals and the educational classes are extremely valuable for our professional development. There are two premier conferences that are not to be missed. The Golf Industry Show put on by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America is an incredible educational experience. This year it was held in San Antonio, TX and attended by 12,000 golf course industry professionals from all over the world. The trade show and educational opportunities are exceptional. The second conference is put on by the New England Regional Turfgrass Foundation and is annually held in Providence, RI. This conference and trade show provide a more regional educational experience.</div>
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With spring now upon us, we feel confident and ready for the new golf season ahead. It has been a busy few months at both courses. Our good work this winter will soon be available for all to enjoy as opening day is fast approaching. We hope you enjoy our winter work as much as we enjoy doing it. See you soon and have fun out there!</div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-80658046747303329622018-02-26T10:54:00.001-05:002018-02-26T10:54:56.536-05:00Ice Ice Baby<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWbyPNN7jLIznP9SiBwMCLapodNvEgw_CvWij6OIn-AVck3-ajCjYc-JF-hazLisQdFjo7gtTsZw-M-_KaUzlzJcg3jFF2Lk-8-gjry5JDaJN-F2y4tw8ibvMA4ksJj_oWyaNonx4tzo/s1600/IMG_0312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrWbyPNN7jLIznP9SiBwMCLapodNvEgw_CvWij6OIn-AVck3-ajCjYc-JF-hazLisQdFjo7gtTsZw-M-_KaUzlzJcg3jFF2Lk-8-gjry5JDaJN-F2y4tw8ibvMA4ksJj_oWyaNonx4tzo/s320/IMG_0312.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laying down special covers before winter.</td></tr>
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"Ice, Ice Baby" and I'm not referring to Vanilla Ice. The term "winter kill" usually refers to turf damage caused by ice formation on the playing surfaces. While there are other forms of winter kill (mainly snow mold fungus, crown hydration, and wind damage) the main cause of serious winter damage is ice. In previous posts I have discussed how ice damages turf. In short, the ice forms an impermeable layer that eventually suffocates the turf. Snow on the other hand allows the dormant turf to breath. Simply put, snow is good and ice is bad... Just like the current skiing conditions.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_INJqSOIrhAPvUi3gdDH-irYdz5KmqyFXAlUcqrU-Qaz2Ghuael4oF4Y7ljAYyPBtCRK9BDBM-TAeoaqZCV-t-YuUy98sas9BYlEnK1ZXprfd_iyohmYig99T7Ts_3xvz87a8vyJYMg/s1600/IMG_0618.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_INJqSOIrhAPvUi3gdDH-irYdz5KmqyFXAlUcqrU-Qaz2Ghuael4oF4Y7ljAYyPBtCRK9BDBM-TAeoaqZCV-t-YuUy98sas9BYlEnK1ZXprfd_iyohmYig99T7Ts_3xvz87a8vyJYMg/s320/IMG_0618.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The black cover has melted the ice and is showing through</td></tr>
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The agronomy team at Stowe Mountain Club and Stowe Country Club walk the courses multiple times in the winter to assess the snowpack and ice levels. We use this information to predict the spring conditions and properly prepare. Due to the extreme weather fluctuations at Stowe Mountain Club we have instituted certain practices that mitigate the potential for ice injury. Specialized turf covers are placed on the greens in the fall that help prevent winter kill and then removed in the spring. These covers are used in areas that have historically received a significant amount of damage. A common example of an unwanted ice formation on greens is caused by collar dams. A collar dam is created due to the turf height of the collar being higher than the height of the putting green. When snow melts, the change in height allows water to pool creating a natural dam blocking water from draining. When the temperatures fall below freezing the pooling water forms unwanted ice along the perimeter of the green. To assist with the melting process, a section of the sod from the collar around greens is temporarily removed for the winter months and then repaired in the spring. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oHCk1-h8U7OJGKV6_MKGUjvseMywAfydLtoqNFZDxwWwhaEeHeppot_NhkpwgvvUCAdS8eMO851MPvZ_DvEsR8yIdeUc636p0sBu9gSUH47JipdOzltXBAawCVMi65mad82UwdZohGI/s1600/IMG_0392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3oHCk1-h8U7OJGKV6_MKGUjvseMywAfydLtoqNFZDxwWwhaEeHeppot_NhkpwgvvUCAdS8eMO851MPvZ_DvEsR8yIdeUc636p0sBu9gSUH47JipdOzltXBAawCVMi65mad82UwdZohGI/s320/IMG_0392.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Example of a collar dam creating ice on a green</td></tr>
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Proper spring thawing is a very critical step to the survival of turf that has been under ice. A consistent thaw above freezing can aid in the turf's survival. Unlike the local maple industry, the extreme swings in temperature with severe freeze-thaw cycles are detrimental to the turf. During these cycles, the ice will begin to melt and create puddles on the turf. Then a drastic drop in night time temperatures to below freezing will flash freeze the water and kill the turf. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiUiFBcZC-YseHPcAOVi-f7mgNpQ6vaviPcVr1uiKYP7vnVkSFe1TIgQgc_90wHNmfUFwQ-r-0pDbzqavkg5MqfHmusrJuFRY-opxwf_YFkkET2suE_McyKwvNf1ZHOTUnCAhFEFIZfg/s1600/IMG_0633.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUiUiFBcZC-YseHPcAOVi-f7mgNpQ6vaviPcVr1uiKYP7vnVkSFe1TIgQgc_90wHNmfUFwQ-r-0pDbzqavkg5MqfHmusrJuFRY-opxwf_YFkkET2suE_McyKwvNf1ZHOTUnCAhFEFIZfg/s320/IMG_0633.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Notice the water that froze in the collar channel during melt</td></tr>
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From mid December on, this winter has been all about the ice and these extreme weather conditions have captured our attention. Multiple icing events have occurred this winter. Some areas of Stowe Mountain Club have been under ice since December. Stowe Country Club has also seen it's share of ice. Rain and thaw events in January and February have only added to ice levels. Are we concerned? Yes. Have we done everything available to us to prevent ice? Yes. Have we seen ice damage before? Yes. Do we know how to recover from ice damage? Yes. Are we certain there will be damage in the spring? No. One never really knows what the outcome will be when the turf finally begins to wake up in the spring. We can only explain the current conditions, compare it to our historical knowledge, and prepare for what may happen. "Prepare for the worst and hope for the best" is a very appropriate saying for this winter's potential impact on our golf courses. </div>
smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-18576434941033343142017-12-30T16:01:00.002-05:002017-12-30T16:01:48.029-05:00The Year In Pictures<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<u><b>Stowe Country Club 15th Tee Renovation Start to Finish</b></u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back from 15 tee</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing on tee looking toward green</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing on 14 approach looking at dead white pine trees</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78RTzpM_ADkxcWV-1_p9SiGgLXTi2yrXqjBtFbMN31cJdSqCW7Tzo0jJPcZ7AY1_tAXT5TJA4_vA9yHGINdT3CGOJyaGne-MaQhkHTxw-LCiINlvJxVkUp1_oOw0Lrp8v3rk0NNswfFA/s1600/IMG_8943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="1600" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg78RTzpM_ADkxcWV-1_p9SiGgLXTi2yrXqjBtFbMN31cJdSqCW7Tzo0jJPcZ7AY1_tAXT5TJA4_vA9yHGINdT3CGOJyaGne-MaQhkHTxw-LCiINlvJxVkUp1_oOw0Lrp8v3rk0NNswfFA/s640/IMG_8943.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYutZE2YAEC1S6yFjDqvf9Oiqj03elOtcWvctX-b8gnEaAVUhaEYN0UkpqhMOK7rdXlijf6koMW73TX7eHYU2tlmPWPIJR4q6po7pnBEb-NeRZ50F9ma0CZezgQruMAzn3AaV_nPWit8/s1600/IMG_8966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDYutZE2YAEC1S6yFjDqvf9Oiqj03elOtcWvctX-b8gnEaAVUhaEYN0UkpqhMOK7rdXlijf6koMW73TX7eHYU2tlmPWPIJR4q6po7pnBEb-NeRZ50F9ma0CZezgQruMAzn3AaV_nPWit8/s400/IMG_8966.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More before looks</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrIgGxWhKotRlZR5VJ8RsFWTfMQEmr-1xrea4x9LdwRNbOUJUXAvBKdE01McJCB49WmBrNr8PQWR8ujn5PaZT5WLGg2WdBrtnQC-JvFmO2A2ziN-ZdoKb7zanF2sPcP9pBNWAbNBwUlU/s1600/IMG_8967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUrIgGxWhKotRlZR5VJ8RsFWTfMQEmr-1xrea4x9LdwRNbOUJUXAvBKdE01McJCB49WmBrNr8PQWR8ujn5PaZT5WLGg2WdBrtnQC-JvFmO2A2ziN-ZdoKb7zanF2sPcP9pBNWAbNBwUlU/s400/IMG_8967.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White pines growing into 14 green</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgM8Fnfle-mN9mB2O_irBnsRypeuIeY923wHMkPkvn-4_kjcRlZ8GgUN9JaQWSqgjhvOd6HQNtVzfCPKqJjbfFiVj_Gg52L5SPxpPiArYALA247A3gvEF-XPPSI8ConCVKwnb6w72dIz0/s1600/IMG_9026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgM8Fnfle-mN9mB2O_irBnsRypeuIeY923wHMkPkvn-4_kjcRlZ8GgUN9JaQWSqgjhvOd6HQNtVzfCPKqJjbfFiVj_Gg52L5SPxpPiArYALA247A3gvEF-XPPSI8ConCVKwnb6w72dIz0/s400/IMG_9026.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Construction starts with removal of 35 white pine trees</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbboI0_Au2urk44-bFhXyC_v8rfIvjWSfNckCEc0Kws2Q_6Dg-QxZCAHdnVypLab2L_9DZt2mlJ2Hc3a4E7M0dxNA0s-PWb6eRK5FkJmMGfycyg4qnT2lyXpt1Qc7nTbhfU0Di20ftT8/s1600/IMG_9027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbboI0_Au2urk44-bFhXyC_v8rfIvjWSfNckCEc0Kws2Q_6Dg-QxZCAHdnVypLab2L_9DZt2mlJ2Hc3a4E7M0dxNA0s-PWb6eRK5FkJmMGfycyg4qnT2lyXpt1Qc7nTbhfU0Di20ftT8/s400/IMG_9027.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Hauling pulp wood off course</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ga00NlACiZq7EPjZ1H60-alqqK2eKEzIePxWyn6or_vf39TxlSRkKfecMRa9aZthLYy8OyWVpeRJXAFQX6ZxIHTJhgfGv3k-F67lJU-dqFzJsY8iq1YA-KnYnx0S_147Xrf3oBaogIE/s1600/IMG_9059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Ga00NlACiZq7EPjZ1H60-alqqK2eKEzIePxWyn6or_vf39TxlSRkKfecMRa9aZthLYy8OyWVpeRJXAFQX6ZxIHTJhgfGv3k-F67lJU-dqFzJsY8iq1YA-KnYnx0S_147Xrf3oBaogIE/s400/IMG_9059.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burning limbs and stumps was an important part of the project to stay on budget</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark Finch standing on the location of future blue tee</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoxXfwPfOFUZFgOs6ChATWDryR1utHb5kq43bw4jLxWVPyJNCIP7qwP49mV33adu-aCsFCY64akkOElm5qq_YSbNkq3iWW41w1mdlrjYgcUqvKvevjjRxgvn3O85jqQIPLOqRiOBrMbQ/s1600/IMG_9089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvoxXfwPfOFUZFgOs6ChATWDryR1utHb5kq43bw4jLxWVPyJNCIP7qwP49mV33adu-aCsFCY64akkOElm5qq_YSbNkq3iWW41w1mdlrjYgcUqvKvevjjRxgvn3O85jqQIPLOqRiOBrMbQ/s400/IMG_9089.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking back at future fescue mound</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4y7eQweoVTQ5SbW4BfsCwUyBfChx7USxVko4ZUk0EKSIjwOcxBiQSC-ar_ulCjM9Nl0ALcAQkJlClOy6gOvx2UzEqZQaZ0hsRhTNSYo4Y4XSfC0oEDvVIotj_ro5q4Uqz_ZT9wiKyF_k/s1600/IMG_9107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4y7eQweoVTQ5SbW4BfsCwUyBfChx7USxVko4ZUk0EKSIjwOcxBiQSC-ar_ulCjM9Nl0ALcAQkJlClOy6gOvx2UzEqZQaZ0hsRhTNSYo4Y4XSfC0oEDvVIotj_ro5q4Uqz_ZT9wiKyF_k/s400/IMG_9107.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start hauling fill for fescue mound</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1S11Op8xeZfJyKdONJi7uiUSJRQmVMyRxYV59NLw0Q4Rx1P89rQB6qBxm-4u6TPsY3R4qnIevAO1vIPY-40K7y41noA9KM0P_4tqxDCQ7REyhZXyAhtSsLPK4puLIoQWg_ub8MXkWCk/s1600/IMG_9168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1S11Op8xeZfJyKdONJi7uiUSJRQmVMyRxYV59NLw0Q4Rx1P89rQB6qBxm-4u6TPsY3R4qnIevAO1vIPY-40K7y41noA9KM0P_4tqxDCQ7REyhZXyAhtSsLPK4puLIoQWg_ub8MXkWCk/s400/IMG_9168.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaper arrives to start shaping the fescue mound </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8b_uF04bprvauRrHzvxQ2sYw_wuNBEu6WDf97BcX935KHpCpvYepmvbXXUTddeb-HiSKosRKnnDu9ebVNdyRzBMeMRmWewmYA_JqKXT5WeZ98rzY0lNT0BQUsAUAGQV65i7xdfu7yjw/s1600/IMG_9195.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH8b_uF04bprvauRrHzvxQ2sYw_wuNBEu6WDf97BcX935KHpCpvYepmvbXXUTddeb-HiSKosRKnnDu9ebVNdyRzBMeMRmWewmYA_JqKXT5WeZ98rzY0lNT0BQUsAUAGQV65i7xdfu7yjw/s400/IMG_9195.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shaper starts shaping tee complex and new cart path</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6BlXKE9Zn9DyEI11zwtjhyphenhyphencX9f8tDYKH1zmXoRCtsFsMK7kOWOCvucGd0hFJv_EwQkcx5tnQyu4LiU-5Ag-_ivJnH0mHNZpvkgzqM_HYCXuLnhJjWLUeESJVWW3yQ1Sn99NdxyRFiyE/s1600/IMG_9206.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg6BlXKE9Zn9DyEI11zwtjhyphenhyphencX9f8tDYKH1zmXoRCtsFsMK7kOWOCvucGd0hFJv_EwQkcx5tnQyu4LiU-5Ag-_ivJnH0mHNZpvkgzqM_HYCXuLnhJjWLUeESJVWW3yQ1Sn99NdxyRFiyE/s400/IMG_9206.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cart path cut in</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2IUgTd10i1PnmyqRM-Q7m_mIY-3G6YMRcuLlgU2MytJGkqxsTiNvDBqQpqocqNmTZTEDBpSAbS-apQkhpZ6PRC8_4SxVlGkDkrXtar2Vpk4dh74ZO5eY_y5KrsZ4LIyGQl8Wl4HeRK8/s1600/IMG_9244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-2IUgTd10i1PnmyqRM-Q7m_mIY-3G6YMRcuLlgU2MytJGkqxsTiNvDBqQpqocqNmTZTEDBpSAbS-apQkhpZ6PRC8_4SxVlGkDkrXtar2Vpk4dh74ZO5eY_y5KrsZ4LIyGQl8Wl4HeRK8/s400/IMG_9244.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC crew starts grading tee surfaces</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSIt4JyZwA1vMMdkefrfUoZPM4F9wxQurEoreeTe3OADrx51jqQUGmYa7gnCnmYRFr42khN-qOHZSbxaDo_XGj6tQaGlGn0u9wrTCo5WUs691kwHNFta-NrWx6363_bMjyDtdYBUbIwLg/s1600/IMG_9250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSIt4JyZwA1vMMdkefrfUoZPM4F9wxQurEoreeTe3OADrx51jqQUGmYa7gnCnmYRFr42khN-qOHZSbxaDo_XGj6tQaGlGn0u9wrTCo5WUs691kwHNFta-NrWx6363_bMjyDtdYBUbIwLg/s400/IMG_9250.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tee complex rough graded and cart path gravel installed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA73hgdv_z8QLogV5lvFiTHLSbkP34OkBEFIfQ0H6jWt7pN2HJBY8phL7FTGWOYYyHYkEtaZ-trKzKxJT9p7-rfJc1tfb55I9eA5mLt9Qoj9edOVaRAyqn8oEa8MZLf65P5q0XGFxTRvc/s1600/IMG_9275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA73hgdv_z8QLogV5lvFiTHLSbkP34OkBEFIfQ0H6jWt7pN2HJBY8phL7FTGWOYYyHYkEtaZ-trKzKxJT9p7-rfJc1tfb55I9eA5mLt9Qoj9edOVaRAyqn8oEa8MZLf65P5q0XGFxTRvc/s400/IMG_9275.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark Finch and crew start irrigation installation</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDfIAlcQ2WV1tYY_jQd5IbNYhNrFKvaRCDY7HxoU38J_aqEry-rCv7u7EJEkvn0QcmxrPhCcmpcOc1CgUQ6Pz6Ow_idyuss6Vjr4RlXbnoUecl9-0RLqLYwcLQBHJ2k2C31ktG6P23g8/s1600/IMG_9286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDfIAlcQ2WV1tYY_jQd5IbNYhNrFKvaRCDY7HxoU38J_aqEry-rCv7u7EJEkvn0QcmxrPhCcmpcOc1CgUQ6Pz6Ow_idyuss6Vjr4RlXbnoUecl9-0RLqLYwcLQBHJ2k2C31ktG6P23g8/s400/IMG_9286.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hydroseed the fescue mound with Sheep and Hard Fescue seed blend</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5TG2v02nNK4RtVf7WRz3fJxgtL3eMUZDyhay_kKN5Pi3cBYn4erU_6xlIXn70WdGXiAKLTBeNFtMQ9YCNYwdxX7skjDPCEZtrsPm9PtLXjXnzXtrRT-TFzwac9ON4ClZP_OOEALb7c4k/s1600/IMG_0090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5TG2v02nNK4RtVf7WRz3fJxgtL3eMUZDyhay_kKN5Pi3cBYn4erU_6xlIXn70WdGXiAKLTBeNFtMQ9YCNYwdxX7skjDPCEZtrsPm9PtLXjXnzXtrRT-TFzwac9ON4ClZP_OOEALb7c4k/s400/IMG_0090.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC crew hauls asphalt to pavers for cart path installation</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3sAX8lt-uYGBq6aDTO2IKncHTC3y7TcO6Tm1azki56clPNXsEg_MGVMh-ss1J5oO2koGZkS__RLxus171L1Ima-Pg0CmNDlhOuKDhoFILu1vdXJBi90Pbld2p_oIhW8AxJzvBFZisKk/s1600/IMG_9348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ3sAX8lt-uYGBq6aDTO2IKncHTC3y7TcO6Tm1azki56clPNXsEg_MGVMh-ss1J5oO2koGZkS__RLxus171L1Ima-Pg0CmNDlhOuKDhoFILu1vdXJBi90Pbld2p_oIhW8AxJzvBFZisKk/s400/IMG_9348.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fescue mound waiting for germination</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvTKvlgHtN5CRAXL9XBV6V5fTeYd02NfAcX57Vsevuxm8v87fV8O7bc2epxBihkitI1AaD2ckoNjoK47E0JQCspq5TtCL-zkpipARI199uKvnCNXhjDjlF3Y_x6abnKrNmg5ATP3y6DUQ/s1600/IMG_9351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvTKvlgHtN5CRAXL9XBV6V5fTeYd02NfAcX57Vsevuxm8v87fV8O7bc2epxBihkitI1AaD2ckoNjoK47E0JQCspq5TtCL-zkpipARI199uKvnCNXhjDjlF3Y_x6abnKrNmg5ATP3y6DUQ/s400/IMG_9351.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC placing tee mix</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnPCa_vnIUaGmd1cw5CgiolB7BEN2flmUcoslQxd82gBZuK8nCJ4ohzi0BiSkVzhzWWy4nxNRQYXuLoISS_MkHrTCuThjKnPpeINfcIWH8N22buS3ZlWrdx6P36hwnZNWUPEPcwVgvus/s1600/IMG_9354.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivnPCa_vnIUaGmd1cw5CgiolB7BEN2flmUcoslQxd82gBZuK8nCJ4ohzi0BiSkVzhzWWy4nxNRQYXuLoISS_MkHrTCuThjKnPpeINfcIWH8N22buS3ZlWrdx6P36hwnZNWUPEPcwVgvus/s400/IMG_9354.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On-Course Golf Construction arrives to laser level tee surfaces</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01Ap73mo5DW98A3_cQNFaOEdzn0CWg2euKFBeLQCdYnlsa5MtjmP38i6rHKs333nVKFsHb4aH_GAHchn8Eaml2jqYgJDf86-3Z-_h8qa8nUUU31UsDpPWMNDDAU0Q3OQyUBLsBip_Xg8/s1600/IMG_9357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh01Ap73mo5DW98A3_cQNFaOEdzn0CWg2euKFBeLQCdYnlsa5MtjmP38i6rHKs333nVKFsHb4aH_GAHchn8Eaml2jqYgJDf86-3Z-_h8qa8nUUU31UsDpPWMNDDAU0Q3OQyUBLsBip_Xg8/s400/IMG_9357.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Hanley working his magic</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWtLNLYgMR_yuRj99UUSLdTXl02dOBTH8cCv0cHYgGS7kPIqDtw5I6F0wcIKP7FXBCGgXytnMEcywVlRt1aUycnMJ9U3GONIz20cW3tiw44wc8lACOerzsF3VsDcp_HwGe3Hdv3ONnyI/s1600/IMG_0173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidWtLNLYgMR_yuRj99UUSLdTXl02dOBTH8cCv0cHYgGS7kPIqDtw5I6F0wcIKP7FXBCGgXytnMEcywVlRt1aUycnMJ9U3GONIz20cW3tiw44wc8lACOerzsF3VsDcp_HwGe3Hdv3ONnyI/s400/IMG_0173.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tees are level and ready for creeping bentgrass sod</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTcnkJr0JYM8RCxKDDtXFK2C7cW2OqJc6vjf9SzJxC8Fv6OZ6A6izAXNutHyGNGgcmeTNoINF5yvgF22HYWE1NwjNSp_TZMxCKDeSJVeyuT-kPbzUzkOe2xE4dbqrjX7DRZXTdeVBn5o/s1600/IMG_9380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTcnkJr0JYM8RCxKDDtXFK2C7cW2OqJc6vjf9SzJxC8Fv6OZ6A6izAXNutHyGNGgcmeTNoINF5yvgF22HYWE1NwjNSp_TZMxCKDeSJVeyuT-kPbzUzkOe2xE4dbqrjX7DRZXTdeVBn5o/s400/IMG_9380.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC crew starts laying sod on a rainy day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEOhb8itTPQEtWxSvCJGhm5FoE3cSICMaNaLnD0QVN1hwbdZ0re4l5GneVx6H1fdRK9rr4PAiTE_4wnIRLjgRlgY3m2Jf5XgU_mGzj5DM6CFuBYUUVdntvAI5MPbdVhzhhuA9OvT4VF8Y/s1600/IMG_9386.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEOhb8itTPQEtWxSvCJGhm5FoE3cSICMaNaLnD0QVN1hwbdZ0re4l5GneVx6H1fdRK9rr4PAiTE_4wnIRLjgRlgY3m2Jf5XgU_mGzj5DM6CFuBYUUVdntvAI5MPbdVhzhhuA9OvT4VF8Y/s400/IMG_9386.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The pursuit of perfection</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbNyJ6qHspC7mZ6zpX5b3ubTz59L9KGkpigJBob4aBvT2AqxPxc_l9p8mQxCYaM3JOVeB-M1dpraw115ZnUZbQJ3zdZt2mBV24In_PDjf6wZoVx5zYhT9LT-8j3V-HyT0ZDGgiFfoEUI/s1600/IMG_9392.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsbNyJ6qHspC7mZ6zpX5b3ubTz59L9KGkpigJBob4aBvT2AqxPxc_l9p8mQxCYaM3JOVeB-M1dpraw115ZnUZbQJ3zdZt2mBV24In_PDjf6wZoVx5zYhT9LT-8j3V-HyT0ZDGgiFfoEUI/s400/IMG_9392.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost done, a lot of sore backs</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsYChSp8orxPJ6QSQjmcri9AV2otxxQuv_IMHhlsWGjtt-9y9_i8-gyBgEIH6hBPxMcgbHizFk3wZrosXM40qkSZ5upNdZulO-OYD2DKPafpuvX6p5OspZBDtje1U2_Vbctidn8j__HE/s1600/IMG_9395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsYChSp8orxPJ6QSQjmcri9AV2otxxQuv_IMHhlsWGjtt-9y9_i8-gyBgEIH6hBPxMcgbHizFk3wZrosXM40qkSZ5upNdZulO-OYD2DKPafpuvX6p5OspZBDtje1U2_Vbctidn8j__HE/s400/IMG_9395.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sodding done, now start finishing edges</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hydroseed Kentucky bluegrass rough</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5lKl3xmN_mJ1W69M4GvqP15YH6LGZxcqPDeBwQj9y5HoT-jYpFDygq2LpJ0HEdVGdlQk3aYUevQPEFOvUZeND4_us0yO7qWt9tZ3ZSUg5Dw4K3s0wohncW_7V-OYKbOHrH1F36KSgtI/s1600/IMG_9621.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA5lKl3xmN_mJ1W69M4GvqP15YH6LGZxcqPDeBwQj9y5HoT-jYpFDygq2LpJ0HEdVGdlQk3aYUevQPEFOvUZeND4_us0yO7qWt9tZ3ZSUg5Dw4K3s0wohncW_7V-OYKbOHrH1F36KSgtI/s400/IMG_9621.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Split rail fence installed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLatufl-zwtTT0Epf8PQ5KLvIUuLT_b16OWGYe0WE2h288brZHNhtI6FaMuMoVuSz8st0wCNKhH4cqcv9TuR5_mcASVI-zYJdVjZw4mxxBgk1x75bl0MUyccYme2oKConUQaIvhlVFVw/s1600/IMG_9460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQLatufl-zwtTT0Epf8PQ5KLvIUuLT_b16OWGYe0WE2h288brZHNhtI6FaMuMoVuSz8st0wCNKhH4cqcv9TuR5_mcASVI-zYJdVjZw4mxxBgk1x75bl0MUyccYme2oKConUQaIvhlVFVw/s400/IMG_9460.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Done!</td></tr>
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<b><u>Stowe Country Club 2nd and 15th Bunker Renovation</u></b></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimosVZiTvM4CNs-f17SSo7m8NswUD1WGIOd145VMlQRsEVICgjE2rhVGVgMYsGXpNP_E4Dj36yBfm0Ccl3ZzQ-QZ5ND9GSjQMQXD1Iuja3jtW7UqNERQcYtJLQ6_-WtkyugsvQQgSn32k/s1600/IMG_9799.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimosVZiTvM4CNs-f17SSo7m8NswUD1WGIOd145VMlQRsEVICgjE2rhVGVgMYsGXpNP_E4Dj36yBfm0Ccl3ZzQ-QZ5ND9GSjQMQXD1Iuja3jtW7UqNERQcYtJLQ6_-WtkyugsvQQgSn32k/s400/IMG_9799.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 2 left side before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03HAY2PXZxBIwjUgVqLA36cOg2uldQ5Bj7aSBigCQhJhMdXaHVp3eszQL3zVunJEwrtk-Gp_yGJD1-IN9vBXkJSZp7sg6m9S_UjzT6BRL8LsDpW_UVtTfdgpTq-9xz8hooofb0C8DggU/s1600/IMG_9950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03HAY2PXZxBIwjUgVqLA36cOg2uldQ5Bj7aSBigCQhJhMdXaHVp3eszQL3zVunJEwrtk-Gp_yGJD1-IN9vBXkJSZp7sg6m9S_UjzT6BRL8LsDpW_UVtTfdgpTq-9xz8hooofb0C8DggU/s400/IMG_9950.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left side after</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-So-rgokP91EsiaE9NQ53R_l5s8qzly6Yasf_UgNo6SNEI_yw_c3EGLTFMDHb55m9wERWtdw7ExDwvE2cuWgaicecJwmx8QrkaxoU-GghQ9M5WCSV3_unobHkCUzVpv8N08Q7Ln8RjXA/s1600/IMG_9794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-So-rgokP91EsiaE9NQ53R_l5s8qzly6Yasf_UgNo6SNEI_yw_c3EGLTFMDHb55m9wERWtdw7ExDwvE2cuWgaicecJwmx8QrkaxoU-GghQ9M5WCSV3_unobHkCUzVpv8N08Q7Ln8RjXA/s400/IMG_9794.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 2 right side before</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlwOloUe9_zh45wgI7f4eF9XyIUr6jussQbb2rQ9l20YuEWde41pJlxN2g8YiKjVRFmeacNnLzz0UPDAM2B_NWp41YSmzFuBAXENNt65aCExfauz1Tin57A97Dg9tN-Ne8bVNsPw7Szw/s1600/IMG_9954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinlwOloUe9_zh45wgI7f4eF9XyIUr6jussQbb2rQ9l20YuEWde41pJlxN2g8YiKjVRFmeacNnLzz0UPDAM2B_NWp41YSmzFuBAXENNt65aCExfauz1Tin57A97Dg9tN-Ne8bVNsPw7Szw/s400/IMG_9954.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 2 right side after</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b></b><u><br /></u></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNnqGE33QwygFLaSDn7v-qd8ogc0TM4r6nFs5imAK4zMcetPmpZbfgTlfPaEPSUy-wClxGjK5cs_2kcFbU56UBIWwxdagu7nnvkSxWZF9Pv44cxZRjgeSJ0t-lQzC1Ig9SXuhwcCw5r0/s1600/IMG_9798.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNnqGE33QwygFLaSDn7v-qd8ogc0TM4r6nFs5imAK4zMcetPmpZbfgTlfPaEPSUy-wClxGjK5cs_2kcFbU56UBIWwxdagu7nnvkSxWZF9Pv44cxZRjgeSJ0t-lQzC1Ig9SXuhwcCw5r0/s400/IMG_9798.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC crew starts Hole 2 bunker renovation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpJC-C5LvfW8h5oRpJnXyYzOMuvCsQgCfEFI4OyqBUHa5WdYh2LAfP8dIDcPGoXuRUJTgerECKkq5yLcMwCynb6vO1Jq7tSCN1EbZChfmZqXYp06KwmoMLR9beDFaOIVNiAN94t5mSKUM/s1600/IMG_9802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpJC-C5LvfW8h5oRpJnXyYzOMuvCsQgCfEFI4OyqBUHa5WdYh2LAfP8dIDcPGoXuRUJTgerECKkq5yLcMwCynb6vO1Jq7tSCN1EbZChfmZqXYp06KwmoMLR9beDFaOIVNiAN94t5mSKUM/s400/IMG_9802.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwMuhWSX1G4YZWworJ5APSa5fzjr5EsO5XabmM8eyJJOwdbG8VjB9LI6jXBxD9QeDGBjLhUDgWHlKz3421K9uiiqwIxwSzC-Kf_Np63s5t0Zsavk4SKPsT_Le_4_K5EVjAyEyrRKJ8kg/s1600/IMG_9805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgwMuhWSX1G4YZWworJ5APSa5fzjr5EsO5XabmM8eyJJOwdbG8VjB9LI6jXBxD9QeDGBjLhUDgWHlKz3421K9uiiqwIxwSzC-Kf_Np63s5t0Zsavk4SKPsT_Le_4_K5EVjAyEyrRKJ8kg/s400/IMG_9805.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebBeTQKy7N6lOt22Z39aC9vG6-pTTABdRuE59QtXFZqbptJkbOqaFyCuFoVCP4iqv6jaenIvGaJlHLKI5SPDo_AxctMpSNW6IXEbxkhQI1Nixk5ee47xZ0fYjioglcYXLeIfEgQtt7Es/s1600/IMG_9808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhebBeTQKy7N6lOt22Z39aC9vG6-pTTABdRuE59QtXFZqbptJkbOqaFyCuFoVCP4iqv6jaenIvGaJlHLKI5SPDo_AxctMpSNW6IXEbxkhQI1Nixk5ee47xZ0fYjioglcYXLeIfEgQtt7Es/s400/IMG_9808.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plywood is used to minimize damage to existing turf </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidIf-3f1M5NIhDQ_9vXISS8X8GkWMdRO_urGJvPjeNN2URYIhCZGz-fi1nc2c_tNv7goUMESXM7Hv3NhcgZVG_ZeMCX-GSCBNdgxdpbi6kblkDvwZ0H4CX_JBkZ2vjz53XtpM11ixhcNA/s1600/IMG_9810.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidIf-3f1M5NIhDQ_9vXISS8X8GkWMdRO_urGJvPjeNN2URYIhCZGz-fi1nc2c_tNv7goUMESXM7Hv3NhcgZVG_ZeMCX-GSCBNdgxdpbi6kblkDvwZ0H4CX_JBkZ2vjz53XtpM11ixhcNA/s400/IMG_9810.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drainage installation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcF_vhu2Q5p9_9zau-CLmLDsBwEoSqbUQ6h8UmfywNtRhJRtTcjX3lw6Xb8dTSdgmnl640ntr2cDEkpsUtR2cwgNubZ_xab3ayhwl5wHM03uk-qJB74k8MeMml2IjrjZgsjWsNSNtii_s/s1600/IMG_0927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcF_vhu2Q5p9_9zau-CLmLDsBwEoSqbUQ6h8UmfywNtRhJRtTcjX3lw6Xb8dTSdgmnl640ntr2cDEkpsUtR2cwgNubZ_xab3ayhwl5wHM03uk-qJB74k8MeMml2IjrjZgsjWsNSNtii_s/s400/IMG_0927.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuewXMe1m2JiZO29tHd4g1UN-4-YpkDJN819GngH6c6g5Y9eq0fWL5kqqTkMzvggqkxBJgvd7_DJFWAN4IIRS6MzYYUJ5rxruhltMvifrO7DrvYEKHYA0gHus8vn3ajCYP7E6Zd_R05Q/s1600/IMG_9832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHuewXMe1m2JiZO29tHd4g1UN-4-YpkDJN819GngH6c6g5Y9eq0fWL5kqqTkMzvggqkxBJgvd7_DJFWAN4IIRS6MzYYUJ5rxruhltMvifrO7DrvYEKHYA0gHus8vn3ajCYP7E6Zd_R05Q/s400/IMG_9832.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDNcYZOzDC8NoEIrUC5VGTKq0EzuE0cZC5Mh0A7VfcbZmxEe8aDTSVFyig2tD8PrYpeMFR7C3aN9O2oa2aNVO6ekypsRKF6PtgUeEHS287GxWnPp3WPBmmDhGhvAF-V4nPPfLMg2lN8Y/s1600/IMG_9835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyDNcYZOzDC8NoEIrUC5VGTKq0EzuE0cZC5Mh0A7VfcbZmxEe8aDTSVFyig2tD8PrYpeMFR7C3aN9O2oa2aNVO6ekypsRKF6PtgUeEHS287GxWnPp3WPBmmDhGhvAF-V4nPPfLMg2lN8Y/s400/IMG_9835.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New sand installed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8EhirOl2QcH5-yq9dLhBLVpZNeDshA_SN55E9wahnMQ36x7xJqG3ZF38z2kFBiY5tq01-BrmLZ6vInhu__6pj7_R7C9UCMcopDptwcpJM5fT-2dtvfAGFRwIj9j88qOxXmJ0Ud3rv3s/s1600/IMG_0129.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ8EhirOl2QcH5-yq9dLhBLVpZNeDshA_SN55E9wahnMQ36x7xJqG3ZF38z2kFBiY5tq01-BrmLZ6vInhu__6pj7_R7C9UCMcopDptwcpJM5fT-2dtvfAGFRwIj9j88qOxXmJ0Ud3rv3s/s400/IMG_0129.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 15 right side before</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31WRRdTpZJI-mixE1RvURYH4_h6W3BMXV_oViADNeq4t3oT-WvbxxLtmf2FQsEtAnF9d1E9yxYGxgfryN4EWsWxapiyjUGWYkmYYrCnTHdNrqrPZKESTsbzSXqiptwUOqB80gC7r6dqQ/s1600/IMG_0185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj31WRRdTpZJI-mixE1RvURYH4_h6W3BMXV_oViADNeq4t3oT-WvbxxLtmf2FQsEtAnF9d1E9yxYGxgfryN4EWsWxapiyjUGWYkmYYrCnTHdNrqrPZKESTsbzSXqiptwUOqB80gC7r6dqQ/s400/IMG_0185.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Right side after</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60LvmJFgyOKm5jY9jpO7vFetRAjiQCtFaHwSLpVevXj93f4yGl8xkv5Lq_T-Xgg5i5ki_YFgki843crlp9021Sd_UUY7u6lVn7ItWdT4q_Vv_7LsfF-ehPVX4j5bRXiBWe10Ro-lbJMA/s1600/IMG_0132.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg60LvmJFgyOKm5jY9jpO7vFetRAjiQCtFaHwSLpVevXj93f4yGl8xkv5Lq_T-Xgg5i5ki_YFgki843crlp9021Sd_UUY7u6lVn7ItWdT4q_Vv_7LsfF-ehPVX4j5bRXiBWe10Ro-lbJMA/s400/IMG_0132.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 15 left side before</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkc4Go6gMe0O_Zxj-xczG9OEHGCN41QmDxfyO2TDpj3sVSSb3Bl4aGu54AlTKDjx_BrRYDmrfXOOlO3U_RrTpPE19dDIJ0TQ7Z1dvDFqDYa1juqnT4ItLNPGME8gAjZmW0esmTu2sE0A8/s1600/IMG_0181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkc4Go6gMe0O_Zxj-xczG9OEHGCN41QmDxfyO2TDpj3sVSSb3Bl4aGu54AlTKDjx_BrRYDmrfXOOlO3U_RrTpPE19dDIJ0TQ7Z1dvDFqDYa1juqnT4ItLNPGME8gAjZmW0esmTu2sE0A8/s400/IMG_0181.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left side after</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrNFv5_XzVtNPYbXsoHqtLJPMqYMeV0aCvZ_77Pn2RpD1t53vEYMzS7gmLMaKmGaYINyI1i3-sXOFCcgLKzID6eg4calLR90hhL0PAjDRxeBDPWThoQFXzm87nTNJBIh1vOewaq4IThw/s1600/IMG_0148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDrNFv5_XzVtNPYbXsoHqtLJPMqYMeV0aCvZ_77Pn2RpD1t53vEYMzS7gmLMaKmGaYINyI1i3-sXOFCcgLKzID6eg4calLR90hhL0PAjDRxeBDPWThoQFXzm87nTNJBIh1vOewaq4IThw/s400/IMG_0148.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC crew starts renovation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9XJolAa7z8_HWDpbMWOAB-WkHLzLKpgWJNh77JUecOgRxMf5Xjzx_FltO1QdU1lSPOdNo4owLm_RPyCUMxSzQ-qf3syTA3Nxke3SwLdsLnQs-6nmRbNqVg2E4cpwfjj4gbTlgrf_SFo/s1600/IMG_0155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK9XJolAa7z8_HWDpbMWOAB-WkHLzLKpgWJNh77JUecOgRxMf5Xjzx_FltO1QdU1lSPOdNo4owLm_RPyCUMxSzQ-qf3syTA3Nxke3SwLdsLnQs-6nmRbNqVg2E4cpwfjj4gbTlgrf_SFo/s400/IMG_0155.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New outside contours excavated, bunker had significantly shrunk </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsYd4mnxDRmQWu5qzd6Gdy6czfRyFxqz1jpNLUNaFHynAWq2wosdBl87iATA3fDyYovg2_clfPoh2bhcLU7-yklnrfwu0gKzscJH8cAMjKbHElpp_rrPYV4M6awmL56JWmrwuN1wTyLo/s1600/IMG_0142.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVsYd4mnxDRmQWu5qzd6Gdy6czfRyFxqz1jpNLUNaFHynAWq2wosdBl87iATA3fDyYovg2_clfPoh2bhcLU7-yklnrfwu0gKzscJH8cAMjKbHElpp_rrPYV4M6awmL56JWmrwuN1wTyLo/s400/IMG_0142.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC crew fine grading bottom contour</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZkakbYnIKDLzqVJ8F7FJF2LKXSY01nln7DB1dL-nJFdRLcTkhk4mxzv0rDCFQHNJEy33cTnPfQpBogFAnzmv8lxX9tpxf16NZzr49fcW6yLOPLsNTyHDgowg6A_j44uC-MZb7AB4G60/s1600/IMG_0177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZkakbYnIKDLzqVJ8F7FJF2LKXSY01nln7DB1dL-nJFdRLcTkhk4mxzv0rDCFQHNJEy33cTnPfQpBogFAnzmv8lxX9tpxf16NZzr49fcW6yLOPLsNTyHDgowg6A_j44uC-MZb7AB4G60/s400/IMG_0177.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New sand installed</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_q_t0vScc0yYlBegBTj_Ws2h8imAAB3_L7oOpwfNam3mEdvFqtNsota6Up3m1h8BeFyIQf0GlzHHNi_Pf4SoN2rvJPua-ZTEvZB6vHD_gGpJYeem2Xyf8jWIsrLRanAWU1ndl7k5AA-w/s1600/IMG_0172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_q_t0vScc0yYlBegBTj_Ws2h8imAAB3_L7oOpwfNam3mEdvFqtNsota6Up3m1h8BeFyIQf0GlzHHNi_Pf4SoN2rvJPua-ZTEvZB6vHD_gGpJYeem2Xyf8jWIsrLRanAWU1ndl7k5AA-w/s400/IMG_0172.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF56c_DtPp3Sz0VAaToMNFQwZ0APvNChDuG4nYutZmeM4darvm_sKlHDxGShKcfpkU5tvUTZQZb1KylC8yZxcEb03WWf0pBFm5hkkJ7I8ACiQHTRdg5qwj4tKJE-v6LIZP2Z_jN3OcZAU/s1600/IMG_0175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF56c_DtPp3Sz0VAaToMNFQwZ0APvNChDuG4nYutZmeM4darvm_sKlHDxGShKcfpkU5tvUTZQZb1KylC8yZxcEb03WWf0pBFm5hkkJ7I8ACiQHTRdg5qwj4tKJE-v6LIZP2Z_jN3OcZAU/s400/IMG_0175.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHdq_gic0cfcJsKFaPhifBe1c-88DIwHmanSEgCVGixcvZe0j2vuP0VQ0YYWtfp2PtZYqjAdBdt9XDo3noq3MEwRDZ4ck9dEjDhEplCW1w5VbkfdS9ILAcY-0pDlf_XDigjtQC7Knw5yU/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHdq_gic0cfcJsKFaPhifBe1c-88DIwHmanSEgCVGixcvZe0j2vuP0VQ0YYWtfp2PtZYqjAdBdt9XDo3noq3MEwRDZ4ck9dEjDhEplCW1w5VbkfdS9ILAcY-0pDlf_XDigjtQC7Knw5yU/s400/IMG_0168.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No drainage installed due to pure river gravel being found</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFwjycWXQz3acA0WynYyJ2o_-paEFapzRunw8KpJhmJs1SyP_T2upIoNvsaGADLYbnbLQ3oID4zQibg7mhGnLeqMuyf4jYnjgpvlL22rY4Oci5roL2YnIoLwsOGtqjK2hZfLhvJyiN4E/s1600/IMG_0182.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFwjycWXQz3acA0WynYyJ2o_-paEFapzRunw8KpJhmJs1SyP_T2upIoNvsaGADLYbnbLQ3oID4zQibg7mhGnLeqMuyf4jYnjgpvlL22rY4Oci5roL2YnIoLwsOGtqjK2hZfLhvJyiN4E/s400/IMG_0182.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><u>Various Other Photos</u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQe67hD_1H13nTxLVzWY_DnbwJSKa5DOzFGpENyY8M8hR-EcofObnfg0MFF7sPCi9hATdQ_-B20Cu4n2O0Rj2uYXcZFe98Z_Rn2IIALJ7mBf8J64HoWlp3_Y57nECuuKR9sEM42XxaIc/s1600/IMG_0162.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguQe67hD_1H13nTxLVzWY_DnbwJSKa5DOzFGpENyY8M8hR-EcofObnfg0MFF7sPCi9hATdQ_-B20Cu4n2O0Rj2uYXcZFe98Z_Rn2IIALJ7mBf8J64HoWlp3_Y57nECuuKR9sEM42XxaIc/s400/IMG_0162.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC Fall fescue cutting</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguscnOjcFQzd8hs7UMM9fh_K1SLsLOqoCElrUq3onb6CoTjPqd3YuV11y4HFC-T3GCMXUXTkBo7lrQXdKQiZNrZSmHkgMW4XaVKFPieXU671yauEKYgLbot_oov5kmf4RbFoIewJ2EP1Y/s1600/IMG_0178.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1022" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguscnOjcFQzd8hs7UMM9fh_K1SLsLOqoCElrUq3onb6CoTjPqd3YuV11y4HFC-T3GCMXUXTkBo7lrQXdKQiZNrZSmHkgMW4XaVKFPieXU671yauEKYgLbot_oov5kmf4RbFoIewJ2EP1Y/s400/IMG_0178.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMC 4th hole on a Fall day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9J_WWdlR8ObaSyQN0-nGJK0s29nquCulwJxn-KEbtkCBK4fhxOAG-1b09Uizu5NgzRnTJRh_Yjb-kbbyDyR6u2yUrhsRyNn46rfZd3GYZ0_fspzampEZiB8U3_c0pADokiebbD_TbIj0/s1600/IMG_0194.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9J_WWdlR8ObaSyQN0-nGJK0s29nquCulwJxn-KEbtkCBK4fhxOAG-1b09Uizu5NgzRnTJRh_Yjb-kbbyDyR6u2yUrhsRyNn46rfZd3GYZ0_fspzampEZiB8U3_c0pADokiebbD_TbIj0/s400/IMG_0194.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>
SMC fescue cutting</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFj9xEoaIKHX95PyjaDXMO5gzZzI58uFGRUArCiJLVgkeont68C66lyl2CNPW8QIY4J802kdOjzzu8VpfezhIaLhg1ywd537QLV7Q5ar1i1GsnswVFGq9RxxvehBKa53uNK6yXgkNLS5w/s1600/IMG_0686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFj9xEoaIKHX95PyjaDXMO5gzZzI58uFGRUArCiJLVgkeont68C66lyl2CNPW8QIY4J802kdOjzzu8VpfezhIaLhg1ywd537QLV7Q5ar1i1GsnswVFGq9RxxvehBKa53uNK6yXgkNLS5w/s400/IMG_0686.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Annual 5th grade class field trip to SMC, 13 years running!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTsPARuQG7JSkGaaMJmXUzB_dsGhoDeSb0ikO-OuMmx7CAi1R6S8x2t_02ksfA_N4NszhplBa8y_Dp7IeW75GtPTxqCQmgwmGr1UTCYBPMy0ra3829n1cURS4zB4BEXtphkOXndg4pRw/s1600/IMG_0681.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTsPARuQG7JSkGaaMJmXUzB_dsGhoDeSb0ikO-OuMmx7CAi1R6S8x2t_02ksfA_N4NszhplBa8y_Dp7IeW75GtPTxqCQmgwmGr1UTCYBPMy0ra3829n1cURS4zB4BEXtphkOXndg4pRw/s400/IMG_0681.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-mlQm0DEU8kltP-P14eapxBRuBAyhD7VXX4mpszhHVeEgVdfxZMR3P2NmxGZOIHbSzVdCZxKxjFvw5xoA4atuwPvkVzE4XrI6HVZcrFgwnoW5n6ZUkaOdjNxopRp2utrQpUkJ7aNfhd8/s1600/IMG_9942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-mlQm0DEU8kltP-P14eapxBRuBAyhD7VXX4mpszhHVeEgVdfxZMR3P2NmxGZOIHbSzVdCZxKxjFvw5xoA4atuwPvkVzE4XrI6HVZcrFgwnoW5n6ZUkaOdjNxopRp2utrQpUkJ7aNfhd8/s400/IMG_9942.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice look at SCC 4th hole</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNxlNtTQeHJVwR_FwI09STlaAX0Rw_rVZPgE6xtBdnwRphjbYa8ZofFd6ZDrVpLyvA3UHN0HhcdHpIzH7rqrgHlvkA22m7Y_r1BCYEBvJQJ7UwHH-MlykhBj7SDTQgJ32UnurEnEC9_G8/s1600/IMG_9959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNxlNtTQeHJVwR_FwI09STlaAX0Rw_rVZPgE6xtBdnwRphjbYa8ZofFd6ZDrVpLyvA3UHN0HhcdHpIzH7rqrgHlvkA22m7Y_r1BCYEBvJQJ7UwHH-MlykhBj7SDTQgJ32UnurEnEC9_G8/s400/IMG_9959.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pine needles are one of many reasons to remove white pine trees</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUM-1DDmA3H4lgD6R957YBFw3JMqInOMTmjS-jAMrQLrP2SbE8MxgStfYeqx3qee9BmIjlTYt_Hfmi7qDpLu1pytNw9UULm29vOXEMe-2Yj85q24BWhT_F0FQTfZ2s9Ogfkr10nIlggIA/s1600/IMG_1017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUM-1DDmA3H4lgD6R957YBFw3JMqInOMTmjS-jAMrQLrP2SbE8MxgStfYeqx3qee9BmIjlTYt_Hfmi7qDpLu1pytNw9UULm29vOXEMe-2Yj85q24BWhT_F0FQTfZ2s9Ogfkr10nIlggIA/s400/IMG_1017.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It rained a little bit this year</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZVWUSqd3-toKO_uG_8nZshw6aeQY-kvEf2Fr_N7L_Neuq86JM54exs5gTA1nYI-Jad9ndjqLrm8yMndKKOPFNsUByCGw0boRtcs0wgxRhKWroK-lz789Fwox8faH1GzTKpuu7836MrJI/s1600/IMG_9895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZVWUSqd3-toKO_uG_8nZshw6aeQY-kvEf2Fr_N7L_Neuq86JM54exs5gTA1nYI-Jad9ndjqLrm8yMndKKOPFNsUByCGw0boRtcs0wgxRhKWroK-lz789Fwox8faH1GzTKpuu7836MrJI/s400/IMG_9895.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The day of the Vermont PGA Stroke Play Championship</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8B-PTk6CaPGQrgRRBqiUtm9mxTFp7j9V3E7Ph82Uw33MVooI_MxCAH66Hov3MMncYiqV6pRNi242fogP7-HABxNvcMpe5OyRU3pZ2pHJ_SKWnWofMw_CPrsna-SpdPXpSEH0nICdipI/s1600/IMG_9898.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8B-PTk6CaPGQrgRRBqiUtm9mxTFp7j9V3E7Ph82Uw33MVooI_MxCAH66Hov3MMncYiqV6pRNi242fogP7-HABxNvcMpe5OyRU3pZ2pHJ_SKWnWofMw_CPrsna-SpdPXpSEH0nICdipI/s400/IMG_9898.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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And it rained a little more</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACHDwoTOzPkl-E78DbA8CEx3G6nJi_I1VNPst5XaxiFbHpc2oOrCsxArGeE9KBlmtYCtDgFtOo7D3gQievtHpEd-lEqLHQ62vXqoVD2tI4KmRKzV4XapGR_Hy6N7SPdXgHQvSQ0iCFOM/s1600/IMG_9856.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACHDwoTOzPkl-E78DbA8CEx3G6nJi_I1VNPst5XaxiFbHpc2oOrCsxArGeE9KBlmtYCtDgFtOo7D3gQievtHpEd-lEqLHQ62vXqoVD2tI4KmRKzV4XapGR_Hy6N7SPdXgHQvSQ0iCFOM/s400/IMG_9856.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMC greens aeration</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLJEXRpgiVBu-Na3Pf3tO0GAvv-EAQwNEpSyEg5reCvDvNl9mcHuyktDICWvSHfbEg1_SkBZTCGVHwokkYJpINCq7h0OyiHFVOgDjUwlJAAOwcLLxDUX4xrG7ZGViVIoir6Bm4hgqiQE/s1600/IMG_9725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfLJEXRpgiVBu-Na3Pf3tO0GAvv-EAQwNEpSyEg5reCvDvNl9mcHuyktDICWvSHfbEg1_SkBZTCGVHwokkYJpINCq7h0OyiHFVOgDjUwlJAAOwcLLxDUX4xrG7ZGViVIoir6Bm4hgqiQE/s400/IMG_9725.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMC Wildflowers, find the bee...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC cart path paving on Hole 15</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC Irrigation pond dredge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verticutting greens at SMC</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much deserved crew BBQ</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoqJ8P6o637LSAZTn8hK6iFwNQQWZBghzopp8ImWDNJ-dODnAkKJN2xtyBvOBg5y9iOPg3AfKe-6EE9rVxHUvP0EAr66cIhZ7ZZcY-NUOvmnOCV4nV4Ggz-bqDnU6lMQCauUOVh76_xI/s1600/fa3b9fc6-3db8-439a-85e0-01798a5180fd" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBoqJ8P6o637LSAZTn8hK6iFwNQQWZBghzopp8ImWDNJ-dODnAkKJN2xtyBvOBg5y9iOPg3AfKe-6EE9rVxHUvP0EAr66cIhZ7ZZcY-NUOvmnOCV4nV4Ggz-bqDnU6lMQCauUOVh76_xI/s640/fa3b9fc6-3db8-439a-85e0-01798a5180fd" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2017 Golf Grounds Team</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-ZcXj5qjGZ50n2rB3HldajUG6uOkpIc8PsbIz5dM1Bsh6P9zaDJhcqXTT-JJ-xUSSYIOJiZI_Ct9T9Tr2jUOFDlw9tSN3xTvQ3N21mvZMfo38-05bHa8BVDnRoXAMw1memt9Rmnsq58/s1600/IMG_9586.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="892" data-original-width="1600" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-ZcXj5qjGZ50n2rB3HldajUG6uOkpIc8PsbIz5dM1Bsh6P9zaDJhcqXTT-JJ-xUSSYIOJiZI_Ct9T9Tr2jUOFDlw9tSN3xTvQ3N21mvZMfo38-05bHa8BVDnRoXAMw1memt9Rmnsq58/s640/IMG_9586.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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A Stowe double rainbow</div>
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Cheers to a bright 2018!</div>
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<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-51754853460303952232017-12-04T09:50:00.003-05:002017-12-04T09:50:55.691-05:002017 In Review<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7F_ywi4WGn9PFpipFaF5jtYvG7prcWFbQ1ZN_0IqF8wGbpidqsVb5iDUEqQRTaGQqqR9LRSAaYMDtf9y1E5GDc1-4kyTtgC4WGfbm5XnF9LOAmpAyvC9wDPWyi0ECuBurmjy7acHPT5U/s1600/IMG_9517.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1136" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7F_ywi4WGn9PFpipFaF5jtYvG7prcWFbQ1ZN_0IqF8wGbpidqsVb5iDUEqQRTaGQqqR9LRSAaYMDtf9y1E5GDc1-4kyTtgC4WGfbm5XnF9LOAmpAyvC9wDPWyi0ECuBurmjy7acHPT5U/s320/IMG_9517.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical storm front this spring/early summer headed for Stowe!</td></tr>
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The 2017 golf season did not disappoint with any lack of storyline. When reviewing a golf season in the northeast the weather will always be the main topic. The months of May, June and July brought copious amounts of rain. This period set records with rainfall amounts and most continuous days with rainfall. The total rainfall for this three month period was 25 inches. Compare that number to the annual average rainfall in Vermont of 36 inches and you realize the abnormality. While rain is not good for playing golf, working in it is equally not good. I applaud the agronomic teams for pushing through all those days working in the rain. It became the norm to put your raingear on when leaving the house in the early morning and still have it on arriving home from work. Let's just say Gore-Tex and rubber boots were your friend! <br />
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Moving into late summer we experienced some great weather. When fall arrived it was the complete opposite of the spring. The fall period set a new record for the most continuous days without rainfall. It was great golfing and working weather. While drainage systems were important in the spring, in the fall the irrigation system became a crucial tool for great conditions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EuzYj7GU2Tydt3aR34ouZcJKaTtz7YAAZlW29YOtZaLgXZ_x7vTaxB2WhdpQs4y55CE-tqcmMNFFDzyFVP6WFzb4xevRd4creAHqczWeti_7Wyw5LAOq2m9rbAFTRKFj-y_epOlt0UI/s1600/IMG_0243.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2EuzYj7GU2Tydt3aR34ouZcJKaTtz7YAAZlW29YOtZaLgXZ_x7vTaxB2WhdpQs4y55CE-tqcmMNFFDzyFVP6WFzb4xevRd4creAHqczWeti_7Wyw5LAOq2m9rbAFTRKFj-y_epOlt0UI/s320/IMG_0243.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White pine blow down next to 12 green</td></tr>
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As to not disappoint before year end, Mother Nature unleashed a powerful windstorm on October 31st that caused significant damage in Stowe and surrounding towns. Stowe Mountain Club received very little damage from the storm. At Stowe Country Club it was another story. Many mature pine trees were broken in half and uprooted. Multiple pines lost large limbs and there was a massive amounts of tree litter that fell everywhere. There is no doubt we will be cleaning up from this storm well into the spring of next year. I've been working on golf courses for close to 30 years and Mother Nature continues to be the one true challenge year after year. There are some years when she plays nice but there are just as many when she lets everyone know who is in charge.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguSTYLmnB10lx7qjHF35i80SP5DDWUh7jZV0shT98Qh0pHzhqsbhvdFr4laBH9omDLy9gDj0zV9R86KwMOP9q5zK6BsxGkQ4at4-n0yZzwV7Bn4NouEcDlNOQj__BJLNwq5_LJrYllkFg/s1600/IMG_0318.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguSTYLmnB10lx7qjHF35i80SP5DDWUh7jZV0shT98Qh0pHzhqsbhvdFr4laBH9omDLy9gDj0zV9R86KwMOP9q5zK6BsxGkQ4at4-n0yZzwV7Bn4NouEcDlNOQj__BJLNwq5_LJrYllkFg/s320/IMG_0318.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mark Finch, SCC Superintendent, dormant seeding greens</td></tr>
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Even with the wet start both Stowe Country Club and Stowe Mountain Club continued to improve the turf quality and overall playability of the golf courses. It is our goal to always improve and never settle for average. I have always believed in the saying that "good is the enemy of great" and the agronomic team operates in such a way. Each golf course continues to improve by adhering to solid agronomic practices. The ongoing effort to topdress and verticut greens on a regular basis is crucial to providing smooth putting surfaces. Proper aerification practices continue to firm up the playing surface by removing thatch. Turf health is maintained through the use of best available nutrition and pest control products. One agronomic focus that continues at Stowe Mountain Club and Stowe Country Club is the push to grow and promote our creeping bentgrass populations. Creeping bentgrass provides a great playing surface on the greens and fairways. At SMC it is a matter of maintaining the existing bentgrass while at SCC it is about promoting bentgrass. A new process was initiated at SCC this fall to promote bentgrass on the greens. After the course closed for the year the greens were aerated with an eight inch deep solid tine then core aerated with a traditional 3/8 inch hollow tine followed by a topdressing with sand. After this process was complete a specialized seeder planted a high quality creeping bentgrass seed. This type of seeding is referred to as "dormant" seeding. The process involves the seed overwintering as seed and then germinating in the spring when conditions become conducive to growth. This agronomic practice will increase the bentgrass populations on the greens at SCC leading to a better putting surface in the long term.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9Yf57-BVei9crq_XqkWLTuc17MzoGqqMgZ80h9TVb-NggVZ3E7c8AgnSZf4R5GjIwuLhSdRT0qv2du_8k34xLvtQuzrTqNhFRVd4PLz8QPaklAr4jdx7TdEuJiGh1yZk4XpuL_TMyU0/s1600/IMG_9370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV9Yf57-BVei9crq_XqkWLTuc17MzoGqqMgZ80h9TVb-NggVZ3E7c8AgnSZf4R5GjIwuLhSdRT0qv2du_8k34xLvtQuzrTqNhFRVd4PLz8QPaklAr4jdx7TdEuJiGh1yZk4XpuL_TMyU0/s320/IMG_9370.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sean Hanley laser grading 15 tee tops</td></tr>
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At Stowe Country Club, there were multiple projects that occurred this year. The biggest was the renovation of the fifteenth tee complex. This area had been overrun with white pine trees and the teeing surface was mounded due to years of divot mix accumulation. While local and regional contractors were used on the job much of the work was done by the SCC team. Myself, Mark Finch, and crew members worked tirelessly to get this job done on time for the Kirkwood tournament. Much of the work was done in ankle deep mud during the pouring rain. This in-house work included irrigation/drainage installation, sodding, cart path preparation, and finish detail work. In-house construction projects are difficult because of the effort needed to simultaneously stay on top of the routine course maintenance work. We did also rely on the expertise of two regional golf course contractors. NMP Golf Construction provided a shaper to do the major site work. A good "shaper" is the key to any successful golf construction job. These bulldozer operators have the eye for how a golf hole should look and play. Sean Hanley from On-Course Golf came in for the final laser grading of the tee surfaces. Sean is the contractor that built our upper driving range tee. This new tee and fourteenth green surround has received much praise from the players. As the area matures it will become an even better playing experience. Thanks to all involved in a great project.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Renovation of 15 bunker</td></tr>
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Other projects at SCC included the renovation of the second and fifteenth bunkers, four bunkers in total. These projects were completed by the SCC crew. It has been a priority in recent years to renovate a few bunkers every year. The reason for these renovations include poor drainage, continued washout of bunker sand, and loss of contours due to time. The renovation process involves establishing new outside contour lines, removing old sand, shaping out new bunker floor contours, installing drainage if needed, and adding new sand that is specified for bunkers. Additional projects included a new cart path on the fifteenth hole that complemented the renovation of the tee and repairing the cart path around the practice green at the clubhouse. The clubhouse landscaping was renovated. Much of the landscaping lost all interest due to over grown lilac trees. Finally, the irrigation pond was dredged.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgz-RhGr9vA9ABeKf-vKAnrNop_5BHqmbEPnLIO_6AnTps6uCuif7sR2TgFcf15haIKUlG3DVRPt91NdifRchiFd51q4tRmGppJeI5-Xrzvle2SYiVqpELQf4VEzkvrj3yBgK0fYcohgo/s1600/IMG_9889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgz-RhGr9vA9ABeKf-vKAnrNop_5BHqmbEPnLIO_6AnTps6uCuif7sR2TgFcf15haIKUlG3DVRPt91NdifRchiFd51q4tRmGppJeI5-Xrzvle2SYiVqpELQf4VEzkvrj3yBgK0fYcohgo/s320/IMG_9889.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spectacular course conditions at SMC</td></tr>
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While SMC was not as active with projects, the season was defined by superb conditions. The agronomic team headed by assistant superintendent Zach Fleeger pushed for championship conditions on a daily basis. We heard great comments from the members and players all season. The winter brush cutting done by Zach and fellow assistant Jerry Elliott on the fourteenth and third hole were well received and gave these two holes a fresh new look and feel. Look for more of this great work during the upcoming winter.<br />
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As we move into the winter season there are some great projects we plan to accomplish that will continue to improve the golfing experience at both Stowe Mountain Club and Stowe Country Club. I will update the blog through the winter to discuss these projects. Be sure to enter your email on the blog homepage for up to date blog posts. Thanks to all who made the 2017 a successful year on the golf course. All the best to everyone during this holiday season. See you on the slopes or someplace warm playing some golf!<br />
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<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-45419410576562132662017-03-22T16:09:00.000-04:002017-03-22T16:09:04.877-04:00Winter Update<u>Turf Health</u><br />
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As winter fades away and spring arrives the agronomic team is always focused on how well the golf course turf has survived the harsh winter weather. You may be surprised to learn that this winter was one of the warmest on record. It is hard to believe because December was exceptionally snowy, and showed signs of a long winter ahead, but January ended up having little snowfall and warmer temperatures. February had some snowy weather but was also fairly mild. Now March has been frigid and snowy. </div>
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The early snow was good for the turf. Snow provides a layer of protection that allows the turf to breathe. The biggest obstacle to winter turf survival is ice formation. While snow allows for air exchange, the ice layer seals off any ability for the turf to breathe which smothers and kills the turf. There are many variables when it comes to winterkill but the biggest variable is length of ice cover. The January weather did bring some rain and thaw creating ice. Stowe Country Club (SCC), being at a lower elevation, experienced greater thaws than Stowe Mountain Club (SMC). The eventual total loss of ice and snow due to these thaws has us believing winter damage at SCC will be minimal. SMC has had snow cover on most of the course since late November. The winter thaws produced some melt which created ice under the snow. This scenario provides a higher chance of damage. It is still too early to know with any certainty what we will look like in the spring. The creeping bentgrass varieties at SMC are tolerant of some ice cover. We will have a clearer picture at SMC as April arrives. To assist with survival the team will begin to remove snow from greens in the upcoming weeks. </div>
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<u>SMC Work</u></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Qt82R7GbfzqXjBzSXhOws4c0xiExdrbNbZSgZizRbL2iktJYDbV_Y2ZJzHKD-SYGMI9UiMoknzxwdqDtHZggMTmRPxACphUlsmV7dxnzo2Y__nVTtw8brxQXo0Q5uLq-FAIswMUmrcQ/s1600/14+brush+II.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Qt82R7GbfzqXjBzSXhOws4c0xiExdrbNbZSgZizRbL2iktJYDbV_Y2ZJzHKD-SYGMI9UiMoknzxwdqDtHZggMTmRPxACphUlsmV7dxnzo2Y__nVTtw8brxQXo0Q5uLq-FAIswMUmrcQ/s320/14+brush+II.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 14 rock feature being exposed</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilE2q9YBZ-yZuJsQjIYTcNH2wFfzyEtpBnzyjliL_17DiT21uLpo-r2t2MgbABgXnMH1Rj_w3xTKRvDVthVkB2lmwIp_8GCvqU3Hd0f8DWjMhOf2URPZdvDbkNctOMoBegjH-juf8Jm_4/s1600/14+brush.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilE2q9YBZ-yZuJsQjIYTcNH2wFfzyEtpBnzyjliL_17DiT21uLpo-r2t2MgbABgXnMH1Rj_w3xTKRvDVthVkB2lmwIp_8GCvqU3Hd0f8DWjMhOf2URPZdvDbkNctOMoBegjH-juf8Jm_4/s320/14+brush.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 14 brush pile ready to burn</td></tr>
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This winter the team focused on two projects that will improve the playing experience. On the fourteenth hole underbrush to the left of the fairway landing area was cleared. There is a large outcropping of rock that was not exposed when the trees leafed out. Opening this area up will give the golfer a feel of width and provide a stunning visual of the beautiful rock formation. One of the goals is to expose and accentuate the natural features and great vistas that SMC golf course property provides. </div>
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On the third hole, focus was placed on pushing back the tree line to the right of the teeing area. These trees and brush were growing in on the golf hole pushing the payers to the left and blocking sight lines to the right side of the fairway. With this area now clear, the player can see the whole fairway and have a visual on balls that land just of the fairway. The overall feeling on the third tee will be much less restrictive and provide a better experience. </div>
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This hard work was conducted by assistant superintendents Zach Fleeger and Jerry Elliot. Winter brush and tree clearing is essential to the long term sustainability of the golfing experience at SMC. The golf course was built throughout a young forest and the perimeter continues to aggressively grow in on the course. Without this work our unique and breathtaking vistas will begin to disappear and the turf quality will suffer from shading and restricted air flow. Winter is the best time to conduct this work, but access is a real challenge. Zach and Jerry spent much of the winter hiking out to these areas pulling a sled full of logging gear. With a thermos full of coffee they would spend the day working hard cutting brush and felling trees, then burning what they cut. This is not easy work in the deep snow on a windy mountain golf course. The motivation for us to initiate this difficult work is knowing we are preserving the beauty of Stowe Mountain Club golf course for our members and guests to enjoy. </div>
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<u>SCC Work</u></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olsen House locker room finished product</td></tr>
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There was a big effort put forth this winter inside the Olsen house. The Olsen house is the single family house set within the maintenance facility compound. It was purchased fifteen years ago when it went up for sale for the purpose of protecting the future integrity of the golf maintenance compound. Without this property the maintenance operation is severely restricted. With the purchase of the house came the ability for the grounds crew to have running water, a bathroom, and a clean place for lunch. Prior to the house the crew ate lunch in the equipment repair shop that is attached to the red barn. While the addition of the house was a step forward, it is still an old house meant to be lived in. It was not set up to be a space for thirteen grown men to work out of. Our work is dirty. We spend long hours with machinery, maintaining turf, moving soil, cutting brush, etc. The set up of the house is far from ideal for these duties. To add to this, no major renovation has ever been done. To cover up the years of grime every square inch of wall space was painted, areas of floor that get heavy use were painted with grey industrial floor paint, and the upstairs carpet was removed and a laminate floor was installed. The work was done on a small budget and meant to be a quick, inexpensive way to make the space more efficient and demonstrate a professional work space. All of this work was done by our team and while it helped create a sense of pride, it is by no means a permanent solution.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 1 Spruce tree removed (Notice die-back on top)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQFiYhK3VCf7jeZqpkWjWYEQs56ilIcBwmcSJ7jcdeMScxC2jTOW0tW3qxXbla00z64WjmMbgzEZ2gzJjVz-Vdwnj1q7CKxBi0BeJb-JWIG9_9WtGngGhyphenhypheni0zLAVdgR__Egyc-yUMoDQ/s1600/16+tree+II.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQFiYhK3VCf7jeZqpkWjWYEQs56ilIcBwmcSJ7jcdeMScxC2jTOW0tW3qxXbla00z64WjmMbgzEZ2gzJjVz-Vdwnj1q7CKxBi0BeJb-JWIG9_9WtGngGhyphenhypheni0zLAVdgR__Egyc-yUMoDQ/s320/16+tree+II.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hole 16 trees removed (Notice top die-back and thinning)</td></tr>
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Great on-course work was also conducted this winter. When there was good snow cover, we ventured out on the course with our tractor that is outfitted with tire chains to continue the important tree removal program. The goal is to remove trees that are diseased or damaged, block vistas, create excessive man hours to clean up debris, negatively impact turf quality, or negatively impact shot quality and choice. This year we removed diseased trees on the first tee and sixteenth rough. Additionally, three large white pines were removed next to the 8th tee. On top of the issues described above, these trees were over gown and impeding any future renovation of the tee. Furthermore, they blocked a great vista of the Worcester Range ridge line from the third tee. </div>
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Two significant projects are currently under way and are scheduled to be substantially complete by opening day. The irrigation pond was dredged to increase storage capacity. The pond had a significant amount of silt accumulation due to the feeder stream dumping sediments into it. The warm winter weather forced our initial plan to be amended. Initially, the sediment was to be hauled off the golf course via an ice road across the first fairway. The ice road is created by packing the snow then plowing it for a few weeks. With the mild winter there was no snow to create the road. When we did get snow, by the time the road was ready it melted due to a thaw. The amended plan was to remove the sediment and stockpile it in between the first and ninth hole. This area of un-mown turf had little aesthetic quality. The sediment will be allowed to dry, shaped out with a bulldozer, and seeded to a good quality seed mix.<br />
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The second project is focused on the fourteenth green and fifteenth tee area. This area has been struggling for years because of the row of white pine trees growing close to the green and tee. These trees were planted to provide a border to the Village Green condominiums. At this point in time the pines have grown to a size that they negatively impact the golf course. The only option was their removal. With the pine trees gone, the fifteenth tee can be renovated. The turf on the tee has always struggled due to the close proximity of the trees. In addition, the tee suffers from mounding. This mounding is common in old par three tees because of years of divot mix building up in the middle of the tee. The new tee will have a sand based rootzone and be professionally leveled to provide an exceptional playing experience. The area behind the fourteenth green that was populated by the trees will be filled with dirt and a rolling mound will be installed. Fescue grass will be seeded on the mounds providing a great visual from the approach shot. While the new open look will be different it is the best decision for the long term enjoyment of these two golf holes.<br />
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With snow still on the ground, we are preparing for the first window of opportunity to complete these projects at both SMC and SCC. The entire agronomic team looks forward to presenting the final products to the players when the golf season arrives. </div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-31604194640138853342016-12-15T08:09:00.000-05:002016-12-15T08:09:01.100-05:002016 Fall Recap<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Wow! December has brought above average snowfall for Mount Mansfield this year. The skiing and riding is off to a great start. There are smiles all over the mountain. While the snow has everyone excited for early season fun on the slopes, it is a good time to take a look back at the 2016 golfing season and the activity of the grounds staff. </div>
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<u>2016 Headline</u></div>
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The headline story for golf course conditions in Vermont and all of New England was the drought. Many golf courses suffered through the last part of the golf season with diminished to depleted irrigation water supplies. This lead to some turf loss due to extreme drought stress. Stowe Mountain Club (SMC) fared well with the drought. Our water supply comes from Peregrine Lake. Peregrine lake was designed for snow making reserves and holds 111 million gallons of water. For comparison, the golf course will only use 10 million on a very dry year. Coupled with a substantial reserve of water, the irrigation system was designed to cover all playing surfaces from the cart path to the edge of the fescue grass. While Stowe Mountain Club is in a good position to handle drought conditions, the situation at Stowe Country Club (SCC) is much different.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SCC Pond Drained and Ready For Winter Dredging</td></tr>
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The pond on the ninth hole is the irrigation water source at SCC. This pond has a holding capacity of 1 million gallons. This size pond is a very small storage capacity for a golf course. What makes the pond usable is the fact that it is fed by a stream that enters the property from the first hole. The issue that occurs in the late summer is that the stream dries up and the pond cannot be recharged. This year we began rationing water in late August and continued through the dry September with minimal capacity to irrigate. Thanks to the hard work of Mark Finch and Matt Jung we hung on during these difficult times and the conditions did not suffer greatly. We did have to suspend the washing of equipment in mid-September because the equipment wash pad is fed by irrigation water. This became an operational challenge but we decided it was necessary to conserve the little water that was left in the pond for turf health. </div>
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Strides are being made to eliminate this unfavorable scenario in the future. One very important water conservation tool installed this summer was the replacement of the old irrigation controllers (See prior blog post). The new controllers with centralized control allowed for precise programing of nightly irrigation cycles. This new system ensures very little waste in irrigation water and reduces the overall electrical consumption of the pump station. This winter we will be dredging the pond to regain water storage capacity. The stream that feeds the pond carries sediment that overtime has filled in the pond. The contractor will do this work in late winter to minimize the damage to the golf course. Lastly, we are designing a pumping system that will utilize the water from the West Branch of the Little River that runs along the fourteenth hole. This secondary water source will fill the irrigation pond when the feeder stream dries up. The pumping capacity of this pump is low enough to have no impact on the health of the river. These investments will assist us with providing great golf course conditions while using the latest technologies to conserve and use the water wisely. </div>
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<u>Fall Projects</u></div>
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The fall is a great time to do small construction projects on the golf course. By this time of year the grass has slowed so that mowing frequency has been reduced which frees up labor to be allocated to such projects. The bonus period for construction on the course occurs in November. By this time, the courses have closed and we have completed most of the winterization projects that are crucial for turf survival. November can be hit and miss when it comes to favorable working weather. This year the November weather gave us a small window to be productive on the golf courses. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMC Hole 7 Curb Removal</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">13 Bunker Before</td></tr>
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The difference in elevation between the two golf courses was very evident this fall. The weather turned cold and snowy much sooner at SMC than at SCC. As an early winter was setting in at SMC a project we were able to complete was the removal of the curb at the seventh tee. The curb was originally installed to manage cart traffic in order to minimize excessive wear to the turf. As time progressed it became clear that this curb was impacting play in a negative way. The ball from a long left tee shot on the sixth hole would end up catching this curb and rolling all the way to the eighth hole. While an errant shot should not be rewarded, a player should have the opportunity to find the ball and attempt a recovery shot. By removing the curb, a ball will now simply roll off the path onto the seventh tee surrounds providing a player with a manageable recovery opportunity. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mE-fm5QRYnHGXWd5xayRX-wpyHCcxzmPFAW2-9TmuuGbFMwa3qKfeegithbMgdJQFGmi1pH8QungraZMjbCd7UByPX2MZJOczeUhkfFJvGotvULgtOjtdgkQgoEw3C4XPF12wT2QlA8/s1600/13+bunker+construct.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mE-fm5QRYnHGXWd5xayRX-wpyHCcxzmPFAW2-9TmuuGbFMwa3qKfeegithbMgdJQFGmi1pH8QungraZMjbCd7UByPX2MZJOczeUhkfFJvGotvULgtOjtdgkQgoEw3C4XPF12wT2QlA8/s320/13+bunker+construct.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">13 Bunker During </td></tr>
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With the weather window staying open for longer at SCC we initiated three projects. A drain line was installed at the practice facility to alleviate various standing water issues. This drainage project fixed a wet area near the closet target green from the upper tee. On this same pipe we connected a line that will capture water from Sinclair Road that would puddle near the newly paved parking lot. This was not a glamorous project but it was necessary to continue to improve our great practice facility. A second drainage project occurred at the fifth hole approach. A chronic wet area existed below the right green-side bunker. A drain line was installed to dry this area and various drainage laterals were installed to provide additional drainage in the approach. The final project was to repair the right side bunker at the thirteenth green. This bunker was one of the bunkers that puddled for a long period after a rain storm. Additionally, the size of the bunker had shrunk over time. To repair this bunker we installed a center drain line, expanded the contour lines, and added better performing bunker sand. This bunker repair is the continuation of our overall goal to provide great playing surfaces continuously across the entire golf course in all weather conditions.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtP4CVQ0lPdislcUAL9Es536YXNzkuLAVJuiWqaTOd3jOfOOTorz_ieyF__tDWDWr9rj3-k0Borogz25-7H9GDDrXOskZ8eMzyt_X3geOnuV0XJZNFmDPb2tcq5c9QI7wFE5kQdu6qvHo/s320/13+bunker+after.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">13 Bunker Final</td></tr>
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We look forward to presenting these improvements to the players this spring. Until then, enjoy this good old fashion winter weather!</div>
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<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-18756164924700650112016-08-31T16:32:00.001-04:002016-09-01T08:52:08.747-04:00Stowe Mountain Club Approaches<div class="p1">
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While night time temperatures are dropping and daytime humidity is somewhat disappearing, we know that the seasons are starting to change before our eyes. And even though we've had another tremendous summer, we are always looking to create conditions that provide the best golfing experience possible. This post will help describe how we do that on our "approaches" at Stowe Mountain Club.</div>
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<span class="s1"><br /></span><span class="s1">My team has two primary focuses, health of turf, and playability for you the golfer. Increasing quality assists in providing exceptional aesthetics and playability helps you better enjoy your good, and maybe not so good, shots.</span><br />
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<span class="s1">We have recently been giving added attention to the green approaches at SMC. The "approach" is a commonly overlooked facet of the golf hole because most golfers attempt to have their approach shots land on the putting surface - past the approach. But at SMC, with our small greens and backdrop of the mountains and trees, depth perception can sometimes be thrown off. Since we can't move mountains, we have opted to improve the surface where a great many shots are landing. By maintaining the approach, a greater variety of shots can be played from in front of the green.</span><br />
<span class="s1">At many courses the approach is maintained like a fairway. This means a higher (HOC) and less frequent fertility and turf treatment. While this may seem like an okay idea, in the long-term this frequently played -off turf can start to thin. At SMC, our focus is on providing golfers with many playing options, including putting, from the approach. With shorter cut turf, your approach shots experience no interference from the grass, giving you the ability to create more spin and control. And just like your careful shots around the green, our maintenance practices have to be handled with care. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbTg_SPAdmOFL96bSsuJKZhrSsy8rx6yEpiLPTB8PXix279x5dpopB7FboA6vQ3CkDLvjCskScS7OsdIK9mnHghn4Tp93ZRYCYCYaho8TCpV6MKpxZA7qfwA9ps68akwsyPZrAzL-W90-/s1600/IMG_8093.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcbTg_SPAdmOFL96bSsuJKZhrSsy8rx6yEpiLPTB8PXix279x5dpopB7FboA6vQ3CkDLvjCskScS7OsdIK9mnHghn4Tp93ZRYCYCYaho8TCpV6MKpxZA7qfwA9ps68akwsyPZrAzL-W90-/s320/IMG_8093.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A look at the approaches being expanded back to the fairway.</td></tr>
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Instead of using a typical triplex machine to mow the approach, we have employed a hand walk-behind mower. With this hand mowing effort, the attention to detail can increase immensely. The walk-behind can bring about it's own concerns, so for that reason we've provided some practices to offset these concerns. Walk-behind mowers require tight frequent turning in order to make the next pass. This tight turning can cause thinning and unnecessary wear on this short-cut turf. To offset this concern, we've started using turning mats for greens mowing and approach mowing. Whether it be for turning on the collars for a green or the primary cut for an approach, the turning mat allows for a firm place to turn. In addition, you may have even noticed that most of the approaches at SMC have been expanded out toward the fairways.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLtPiSW9rwjzAUwuyIXu7-7Lxwy4UXbBNJZ0o2GR7dKP9t1t70Zg5o7g_asQPb2taQiDYa2QvydJIhqhFr9OSRnuzWh1jE0bZmvnjTN9yL2SQ-ww6iVAKnO7x9W91V_XLJXIr9NY9fMf75/s1600/IMG_8048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLtPiSW9rwjzAUwuyIXu7-7Lxwy4UXbBNJZ0o2GR7dKP9t1t70Zg5o7g_asQPb2taQiDYa2QvydJIhqhFr9OSRnuzWh1jE0bZmvnjTN9yL2SQ-ww6iVAKnO7x9W91V_XLJXIr9NY9fMf75/s320/IMG_8048.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Using turning mats on the green surface while mowing hand mowing approaches.</td></tr>
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We have also started topdressing more frequently. Expanding the lower height of cut (HOC), while advantageous for playability challenges the turf plant. The crown (heart) of the turf plant becomes more exposed with a shorter HOC. That is offset with topdressing sand to insulate this crown. Even though the surface may seem more "sandy" immediately after its completed, with a few nights of overhead water and a day or two of mowing, this sand will settle right down to where it needs to be. However, insulation isn't the only reason to topdress. Topdressing also helps us achieve a decrease in thatch build up and an increase in surface soil porosity. This increase in porosity helps the root system maintain a consistent delivery of water and nutrients.<br />
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Ultimately, we are maintaining the approach playing surface more like a green. This new focus on approaches takes a little more effort to maintain, but with the right practices and the right focus in place, you will continue to see exceptional conditions at SMC!<br />
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Thanks for your continued support! See you on the course!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6HVeHxuCDCQepXvrimoEIerTrdgUTughEFcPHPmFXC_hlL148QjjF43ENOwRICcm-oSaupAOk0NasfVc_zReSQo5fwDbYWvDFbnFrk8C1U-Z3kyWs28M-6rR65HxKe5U31DUes_Zru22/s1600/IMG_8026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs6HVeHxuCDCQepXvrimoEIerTrdgUTughEFcPHPmFXC_hlL148QjjF43ENOwRICcm-oSaupAOk0NasfVc_zReSQo5fwDbYWvDFbnFrk8C1U-Z3kyWs28M-6rR65HxKe5U31DUes_Zru22/s320/IMG_8026.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Topdressing approaches for crown insulation.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04072816632604344600noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-77494627219456250942016-08-06T07:48:00.000-04:002016-08-08T09:04:41.001-04:00Stowe Country Club Irrigation Update<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Twenty-first Century Irrigation... What is it?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Golf course irrigation systems consist of three major infrastructure components. At Stowe Country Club, we recently completed an overhaul and upgrade of one of these components; the control system. The pumping system and the delivery system are the other two. The means to deliver water to the turf is one of the most valuable tools a golf course has. The superintendent is responsible for managing water usage to yield optimal conditions of playing surfaces. Executing this simple principle requires that the superintendent relies on all three major components to be flawlessly operable.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">A basic approach to appropriate watering practices is simply to not over-water. This is done for many reasons that include playing conditions, disease management, resource conservation, and more. It is crucial that watering occurs only when necessary and not only when convenient. This brings to light the importance of the system and its components to be functional during crucial demand periods.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The irrigation system that is in use at Stowe Country Club is over twenty-five years old which poses great concern for possible failure. We had the opportunity to upgrade the control portion of the system this summer. This is essentially the brain of the system and consists of a series of electrical field controllers that transmit electricity to each of the hundreds of sprinkler valves throughout the golf course to deliver water. Using the seven former field controllers at SCC as stand-alone programmable controllers is an example of the most basic application of automated irrigation. Until a week ago our assistant superintendent, Matt Jung, would make a visit to each field controller nearly every day and manually program the watering schedule. This is analogous to setting 168 alarm clocks each evening but they cannot all go off at once, they have to be spread apart so as not to get so loud it wakes the neighbors.</span><span style="background-color: black; color: black; font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 3px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: cambria; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; line-height: 16.56px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Previous stand-alone controller on hole 10</span><br />
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<img alt="C:\Users\mfinch\Desktop\IMG_1442.JPG" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/82nC4mFSOvPRdzQJm6NQoLJ1-4oDURvnpwmJ355LbgQ7X8dD7tGiYOE0CWlt_dG1RsEzEKzcFDNY1txm34y652ZVjD0vfC0eYyWoY0DZVSMxJZoqTv3hfYnxaZF-b0UPil-o9b0tHEOawW4ozA" style="border: none; font-family: cambria; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 1.38; transform: rotate(1.57rad); white-space: pre-wrap;" width="320" /><br />
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<span style="font-family: cambria; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; line-height: 16.56px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Installation in progress</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="C:\Users\mfinch\Desktop\IMG_1443.JPG" height="239" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SclF6dhpZweizy1RXxOynCohEasWClye_NlR1TzQaFOYRhtgnyJq5ZZYmNPzJX0FAj8gZvdPfZySBsBLO2q-QTAz6QjE-WykGrkGCisxtqBHtlhYhy2ODv_HA7DUJjf52XBqd3uCLfpCMwjsvA" style="border: none; transform: rotate(1.57rad);" width="320" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Newly installed controller with new concrete pad and surge grounding</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The pumping system has a maximum supply threshold of delivering 450 gallons per minute (GPM). If there is too much overlap in the number of open valves that are demanding water during the nightly watering schedule, an alarm is activated and the pumps shut off before they are damaged. The pumps will live to see another day but the irrigation schedule that was interrupted is now incomplete. Most full watering cycles take 5-10 hours to run which is why an automated night time schedule is the only feasible run time.</span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The control system that we installed this July incorporates a central controller in the form of a computer that communicates to each of the seven new field controllers via radio frequency. The central computer uses smart technology to schedule and facilitate the automated watering. The central component creates a cycle schedule based on our daily parameters that maximizes the efficiency of the pumping system and its electricity consumption. It monitors theoretical GPM flow in real time and adjusts watering in the field to consolidate running time while also avoiding overuse of the pumps.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="C:\Users\mfinch\Desktop\IMG_1550.JPG" height="240" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Mmrb9j4BsdNJiw4BFFl2ELsJQBybyLGo49umm2Kq7LQxTs6_LusocFsd87wS6uecib-v5vUaq_98hlBWXQRQvJM0TnQDVO8JUyalUC5e6fQx12EFa2ruKKO9V0GCW2Z3y4Y2_RIl44KNiZx8Kw" style="border: none; transform: rotate(1.57rad);" width="320" /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; line-height: 16.56px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Previous controller on hole 1 in area of play. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="C:\Users\mfinch\Desktop\IMG_1714.JPG" height="240" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ZBih-krovbYi78nIRsqQvjfWVF1E6WoLnpQe_kJeGc8ikVzu1wP3RzcLhQjzP9F2s5c4KkGA_Wvxlz5D-lubaImB4wnpqxyKgXlfUhYOdY_JU93zZ-1UQz90qGdSqe9a_FuIc8y-LCzGvXTozA" style="border: none; transform: rotate(1.57rad);" width="320" /></span></div>
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<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.38; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Newly located controller site out of play. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">(We anticipated this relocation and dropped a sleeve tube </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">underground to run wires through prior to cart path paving in May.)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The entire irrigation system benefits from this technology. Knowing that all three major system components are aging and their reliability is questionable, we concluded that the smart features of the central control will help preserve the longevity of the system as a whole. By prioritizing the control system upgrade we can confidently rely on the pumps to run at a more consistent speed or RPM, reducing wear and tear and reducing run time hours. By maintaining a constant pumping speed and maximizing the demand of the available GPM flow, our underground piping system is moving a more steady flow and a holding a more static pressure level. Without central monitoring, water flow in the underground pipe can be variable and sporadic and can cause stress fractures and catastrophic breaks, especially in 25 year old PVC pipe.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="C:\Users\mfinch\Desktop\FullSizeRender.jpg" height="215" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/ke63mFdig23pR1wBet1KSLWsBnhLP1cuiSUXHDxlqptlYwoYWV5w0xJtAiAZ8Le3esDt7n1Rk62o6078XR85WKI8B8xAqcO5uIQosjcT3be8xayumFviyQ4iCBzzZMo0L8Mma1U4VckgdvTa4Q" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="287" /></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><img alt="C:\Users\mfinch\Desktop\IMG_1713.PNG" height="216" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0FNzgcW3OdcR54LDy9mGTFyv0GP0uR87vOWO_1iFbuOaEgCnp-w35xec3cCfxbgUTdDfPgGLZHXXM_BZuknzOm2tFFmdo0liTWO6yUfSuXt-4ZLI6QAlM0RBnuMqxgCu9sIyog-W91gxoWBRQ" style="-webkit-transform: rotate(0.00rad); border: none; transform: rotate(0.00rad);" width="122" /></span></div>
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Left: the central control computer set up in the maintenance office. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Right: a screenshot of my cell phone utilizing an app that can communicate </span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 12px; font-style: italic; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">with the central control computer remotely.</span></div>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-bab48fe9-525d-14f8-4e6d-50f3b99fefb8"></span><br />
<div dir="ltr" style="line-height: 1.3800000000000001; margin-bottom: 10pt; margin-top: 0pt;">
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">The control system is up and running and programming is as simple as a mouse click or as complex as we can fathom. In an industry where water is a diminishing resource in some regions, it is our responsibility as superintendents to be conservative, efficient, and accurate in our watering practices. There is an endless amount of data that we have begun uploading to our central control that will make our system operate optimally. As we build our database we will begin to employ features of the control that communicate with our weather station to maximize water use efficiency. For example, the watering schedule can be set to pause or end at the detection of rain. The weather station will also feed data that measures the amount of evapotranspiration (plant moisture loss during day) and determine the amount of irrigation to apply to replenish vapor loss. These are good examples of technology opening up a whole realm of new ways to increase accuracy and efficiency. Not to mention, the ability to operate the sprinklers on the golf course remotely from anywhere in the world with our cell phones!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: "cambria"; font-size: 14.666666666666666px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Mark Finch, Golf Course Superintendent</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04072816632604344600noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-12736635981812153702016-05-19T12:57:00.004-04:002016-05-19T13:00:06.016-04:00Winter Reflection at Stowe Mountain ClubWhile snow depths stayed low all winter season, the grounds department was able to prepare and complete some great projects on the golf course. It also halted the stress of true turf management, allowing our team to continue exploring opportunities to improve your golfing experience. Arguably, the winter months are some of the most important months for a golf course maintenance team. On the surface, it may seem like our main priority is only snow removal, but our scope of work extends far beyond. Refining the maintenance operation, analyzing the budget, and most importantly researching our team output on the property allows us to prepare for another successful golf season.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTx_JQseETVR5mKrk7fcmCbkUph8Zn-iG5BCG72AQp0jmNCNkpreaNvuoXRS4Z8wgPhyTBFOe1_dSFAZ7PGcNONhFgIQKBnuL9HzR0sScxnUZJJqstzbMFHus8h_IwgePeqj3zMGGNQrMP/s1600/2+Tee+underbrush+present.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTx_JQseETVR5mKrk7fcmCbkUph8Zn-iG5BCG72AQp0jmNCNkpreaNvuoXRS4Z8wgPhyTBFOe1_dSFAZ7PGcNONhFgIQKBnuL9HzR0sScxnUZJJqstzbMFHus8h_IwgePeqj3zMGGNQrMP/s320/2+Tee+underbrush+present.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 tee underbrush</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRi2ELZuCOOulUOHbEXYug6ZvlYDd4fXNJcyBHnqK51HKIiNJ6ghGNeC-8rew2zE-kH2LflcnCVQpOGeNaMGUR486_2RbJLpRhrEmawx7bA46H2w9LtZ7LirC60rw6H2TBdHMLKr7_z3K/s1600/Obstructed+view+of+chin+on+18.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitRi2ELZuCOOulUOHbEXYug6ZvlYDd4fXNJcyBHnqK51HKIiNJ6ghGNeC-8rew2zE-kH2LflcnCVQpOGeNaMGUR486_2RbJLpRhrEmawx7bA46H2w9LtZ7LirC60rw6H2TBdHMLKr7_z3K/s320/Obstructed+view+of+chin+on+18.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Obstructed view on 18</td></tr>
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This particular winter season, we identified 2 particular projects. Tees on holes 2 and 18 needed a facelift. Our goal was to improve turf health and aesthetic value. Like any project on the golf course, there is necessary research that needs to be completed before the start. On top of analyzing the budget, we make sure that the project will benefit the health of the surrounding turf. Most of the time the aesthetic value will also be immediately enhanced, but sometimes it may take a few weeks to a few months for the surrounding turf condition to also improve. As you'll be able to see during your round, our work significantly improves the aesthetic value of the holes. Over time, this work will also improve the health of the surrounding turf. The work on 2 tee opens up views to Peregrine Lake and the work on 18 opens up a view of "The Chin" on Mt. Mansfield and a beautiful rock face. The brush cleared on 18 tee also improves the playability from the black/blue tees (playing a right to left shot).<br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFo0bW_A4ay0wRWw98BDhjhohZFMWR68baPs-vCSWqksFo39CUEm_qchy8G-81CuZ22y1OMzY9aeJMKWYKl37VHiAxseEldq64pXfvlrVOcJtLINJmicDEXkfC6T0ucbRXwL6l7y9MjX82/s1600/Chin+view+opened+up+18+Tee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFo0bW_A4ay0wRWw98BDhjhohZFMWR68baPs-vCSWqksFo39CUEm_qchy8G-81CuZ22y1OMzY9aeJMKWYKl37VHiAxseEldq64pXfvlrVOcJtLINJmicDEXkfC6T0ucbRXwL6l7y9MjX82/s320/Chin+view+opened+up+18+Tee.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">Cleared view of the "chin"on 18</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZs_la8VHzn48WixvIpcjEijs_KOM_EEuCTKJ6CVvUdTC00kGNTGWWjJLVLtMlnfNVMVJnhnE5b_TaBcOiN0IjHjwb1wacpmpMoHlhUTwVz0fyssf2vPSvblX7iPYMNCOsCXuJ8cysL4Ux/s1600/Cutting+underbrush+at+2+Tee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZs_la8VHzn48WixvIpcjEijs_KOM_EEuCTKJ6CVvUdTC00kGNTGWWjJLVLtMlnfNVMVJnhnE5b_TaBcOiN0IjHjwb1wacpmpMoHlhUTwVz0fyssf2vPSvblX7iPYMNCOsCXuJ8cysL4Ux/s320/Cutting+underbrush+at+2+Tee.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutting brush under 2 tee</td></tr>
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Clearing underbrush this winter, particularly from tee surrounds, was an on-course priority. As I mentioned before, this particular act can help health and aesthetic value. By clearing brush, this will<br />
dynamically enhance air flow and circulation. By enhancing these two things, the turf will have more sunlight and oxygen improving its ability to make more food for itself. Organically, the turf plant will also be able to improve its natural defenses, potentially decreasing overall pesticide usage.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSomfRx33ktmGPoN8nx9o9vucuvsrM10H_-vulcm-ThJzcBLI6HAukjcqfDpqVnnXK363mVrGfRX961flxQNRaP2KOh1B_M2cn4BDSO7_AHRw_i4BmY56LX5u3Zo30dcry0V3WvOPkmvk8/s1600/Burning+brush+on+2+Tee.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSomfRx33ktmGPoN8nx9o9vucuvsrM10H_-vulcm-ThJzcBLI6HAukjcqfDpqVnnXK363mVrGfRX961flxQNRaP2KOh1B_M2cn4BDSO7_AHRw_i4BmY56LX5u3Zo30dcry0V3WvOPkmvk8/s320/Burning+brush+on+2+Tee.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burning brush</td></tr>
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We were then able to discard the removed brush by naturally burning. However, you will notice some standing "dead" trees remaining in the cleared areas. We refer to these "dead" trees as"snags." The "snags" are necessary in providing habitat for wildlife such as woodpeckers. The "snags" allow the woodpeckers to create cavities. These cavities allow smaller birds to occupy these spaces to nest called "cavity nesting." During this whole process we were able to partner with the Mountain Operation Team and borrow a tracked vehicle to access the golf course during the winter months. The sharing of assets between resort departments is really proving to be a valuable process for everyone involved. Sharing assets primarily helps the bottom line when analyzing the necessary inputs needed for these capital projects. This on-course winter work is very important because the forest will continue to grow in on the golf course, negatively impacting playability and aesthetic value.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZ9HkDc9L0WuL1NG25XEebjm6fRBVpwbWt6KNBmOca6fTcXmdTHKHVjajckrEUP9a3-NdqIZY-LMl3OT_Czjux5fW0lyulIoOyBD-KrNOT3C27p5dRIGKZSu3slDk3rO3SWaP-klfQSj-/s1600/A+Look+at+final+product.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZ9HkDc9L0WuL1NG25XEebjm6fRBVpwbWt6KNBmOca6fTcXmdTHKHVjajckrEUP9a3-NdqIZY-LMl3OT_Czjux5fW0lyulIoOyBD-KrNOT3C27p5dRIGKZSu3slDk3rO3SWaP-klfQSj-/s320/A+Look+at+final+product.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A look at the final product</td></tr>
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Thank you for your continued support! We look forward to your feedback regarding these winter projects!</div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-83006009242415550672016-02-22T13:07:00.000-05:002016-02-22T13:07:14.214-05:00Winter Work at Stowe Country ClubBy Mark Finch, SCC Golf Course Superintendent<br />
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<b>Winter Work</b></div>
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When we see a golfer or two walking the course course with a couple of irons and a pocket full of golf balls around Thanksgiving, it is a telling sign that winter in coming late. When we see the same people roaming the snow-less property on Christmas Eve is in confirmation that winter is late. Then to see people hitting balls and carrying a shag bag around the practice field after the New Year, we become skeptical of winter's arrival. </div>
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So how does a winter like this affect the golf course in the spring? A quick recap of notable events:</div>
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<ul>
<li>66 degrees, December 24th</li>
<li>1 inch rain, December 30-31st</li>
<li>(-10) degrees, January 5th</li>
<li>1 inch rain, January 10th</li>
<li>3 degrees, January 11th</li>
<li>54 degrees, February 3rd</li>
<li>(-18) degrees, February 14th</li>
<li>1 inch rain, February 16th</li>
<li>5 degrees, February 18th</li>
<li>0.75 inches rain, February 20th </li>
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Ice formation on the turf is the conditions we are most concerned about in our region as it pertains to the winter turf survival. The other condition is called crown hydration. This is the harmful freeze-thaw pattern that the turf is susceptible to while breaking dormancy in mid-March and early-April. These fluctuating extremes are notable but not that unusual. The sequence in which these events take place is what requires close attention. Basically, the recipe for disaster (in our case, ice formation) is a winter rain event immediately followed by single-digit temperatures. We observed this pattern three times so far this season. Fortunately, in the case of the December rain, the ground had not yet frozen so the rain was absorbed throughout the soil. The subsequent events occurred in mid-January/February and there was a large amount of ice. From a glass half full perspective we had a couple factors on our side at that point; barely any snow and it was already mid-February. Turf can withstand a certain amount of time under ice cover. Creeping bentgrass has an ice tolerance of 90 days and Poa Annua has a tolerance of only 30-60 days. Having a mixed stand of both of these grasses at SCC causes concern for any length of ice cover. This February icing events puts us in the better scenario for survival due to the shorter duration under ice. Turf damage occurs from ice coverage due to the low levels of oxygen and the accumulation of exhausted gasses that can be fatal to turfgrass. </div>
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It is almost inevitable that every winter comes with a January (or February) thaw. As noted, on February third we reached fifty four degrees which typically would have melted a lot of snow. But with hardly any snow on the golf course to melt, it was the ice that was melting. By the end of that week Stowe Country Club was approximately ninety percent void of ice and snow. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK626BtFOnVE-FLyJNmo6oj10IvbM1LaD2UU-GpAt1PIOprmRouxu0TpVphkZDWUGrTQibWYcY2_cGmPjw-xVP6AuknTohI77dNG_EmQoqkZVt8mkIsh4Bk4jOMNYiGy1SIzAYIJdkXI/s1600/dry+well.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFK626BtFOnVE-FLyJNmo6oj10IvbM1LaD2UU-GpAt1PIOprmRouxu0TpVphkZDWUGrTQibWYcY2_cGmPjw-xVP6AuknTohI77dNG_EmQoqkZVt8mkIsh4Bk4jOMNYiGy1SIzAYIJdkXI/s320/dry+well.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Digging Dry Well On 18 Green</td></tr>
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We are not in the clear yet. The scariest days of winter are still to come for golf course superintendents in northern climates. The days and nights of freeze-thaw, or crown hydration potential, occur in mid-March through early-April. Essentially, the plant may begin to take on water during a thaw and then freeze at night. The cell structure of the plant becomes swollen with water and when this water freezes the cells expand to the point of rupturing. This rupture occurs in the crown, or growing point, of the grass so the plant becomes injured. </div>
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We do everything we can throughout the winter as superintendents to intervene and mitigate any conditions that may be conducive to either of these types of winter associated injuries. Timely snow removal to hasten ice melt, drainage improvements to facilitate standing water and plant protectant applications are some examples of countermeasures we routinely execute before winter arrives and as the snow melts. Invariably, there is always the possibility of some amount of turf loss due to the unfavorable winter conditions. As for this year, we are closing in on the point where we can rule out much possibility of significant ice damage due to length of cover.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82a5DJ9b_IGq4EuB2_iWh28PmArweM6gUmr9wz7tyXyN_wTYFKUr7Wo1kohZZcRqAUBTfB0R1mrsrS9aoEJMn7xmLYHrdie-xpnvZxBRy9Icq4-nDj4k_QV5c894w8lWssHZPbMQ-I_c/s1600/sand+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj82a5DJ9b_IGq4EuB2_iWh28PmArweM6gUmr9wz7tyXyN_wTYFKUr7Wo1kohZZcRqAUBTfB0R1mrsrS9aoEJMn7xmLYHrdie-xpnvZxBRy9Icq4-nDj4k_QV5c894w8lWssHZPbMQ-I_c/s320/sand+18.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding New Sand at 18 Bunker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Our staff took full advantage of the extended period of mild weather that occurred well into the month of December. This "bonus" time was used to aerate fairways and rough along with facilitate a few drainage projects and bunker improvements that were scheduled to take place in spring 2016. Golf course improvements and repair that began after the golf course closed for the season include:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Both greenside bunkers renovated on hole 18 (completed reshaping, new sand and internal drainage)</li>
<li>Fairway/Rough internal drainage on hole 13 (piping and surface drains installed and ready for spring regrassing) </li>
<li>Leveling and resodding of back tee on hole 10</li>
</ul>
<div>
There is no question that drainage infrastructure is lacking at SCC but our progress is reaching a point where noticeable improvement is being made. We plan to continue addressing poorly draining ares of the golf course in the early spring and again in the fall of 2016. Our efforts are focused on fairways and bunkers. Enhancements in our cultural programs on greens has paid great dividends with the drainage performance and playability of the putting surfaces. We will continue to institute new practices to sustain the progression this year. </div>
</div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi790MhzdwVdvWq9u42zvwGkE41IUSXU7VHZXC65FdaVXO3Mua1ZGXrpz2a7F8oUSyGMLbAABsf_k29Z0sX2IUUMHW7pZd-51zk8qF4WYPf1CPAj82rCdZ4IlmFxtx225t6zVGlAZyXqU/s1600/18+bunker.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi790MhzdwVdvWq9u42zvwGkE41IUSXU7VHZXC65FdaVXO3Mua1ZGXrpz2a7F8oUSyGMLbAABsf_k29Z0sX2IUUMHW7pZd-51zk8qF4WYPf1CPAj82rCdZ4IlmFxtx225t6zVGlAZyXqU/s320/18+bunker.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Repairing Drainage 18 Bunker</td></tr>
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</div>
<div>
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<div>
During the month of January we resumed implementing our tree management program. For a period of time we had just enough snow to get on on the course with our tractor to conduct tree work. There are a growing number of tree specimens on our property that are diseased and hazardous. We specifically identified an area between the twelfth and thirteenth holes where spruce trees had matured to the point of die-back and became diseased. The selective removal of these trees will better enable us to safely recapture the beauty in this vast rolling space as a fescue area with desirable trees featured. A similar renovation took place between the fourth and fifth holes. The species here were northern white pines of the "pasture" form. After assessing the unnerving growth habits and health of this stand we prioritized reclaiming this tract as well. The completion of work at this location will introduce expansive views of the golf course as well as the scenic view of Camel's Hump from the fourth tee and green. We are excited to be finalizing the revitalization of the fourth hole through the completion of several projects over the past few years. These efforts include: </div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Tree removal and fescue grass establishment, left side 2013-14</li>
<li>Tree removal and fescue seeding right side 2014-15</li>
<li>Cart path relocated and paved, tee to green, 2015</li>
<li>Mounded fescue features, right side, 2015</li>
<li>Bunker shape restoration, new sand, 2015</li>
<li>Tree removal, fescue restoration, right side, 2015-16</li>
</ul>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrLR8LLW8ejQ-Q5H01knFScRlGITr0_G6opZmI4dbL4axkVjrBi4XJVJYi43V_3_hlqEqRCKUmWZ8OsTaweakkNt9NaWydSb7QvvJccPVe0atE5pxgtpX3UBaJGzh50iZH4im0N_xI6Y/s1600/SCC+tent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNrLR8LLW8ejQ-Q5H01knFScRlGITr0_G6opZmI4dbL4axkVjrBi4XJVJYi43V_3_hlqEqRCKUmWZ8OsTaweakkNt9NaWydSb7QvvJccPVe0atE5pxgtpX3UBaJGzh50iZH4im0N_xI6Y/s320/SCC+tent.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Golf Maintenance Staff Re-assembling SMC Tent</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
At this point in February we feel the golf season fast approaching and there is still a lot to do. There are golf course accessories to refurbish for another season and a fleet of grounds equipment that we overhaul, service and sharpen to be ready for heavy use during the golf season. We are fortunate enough to house all of our equipment under shelter this year for the first time ever with the addition of a temporary structure that we re-purposed from Stowe Mountain Club. We were able to erect the structure ourselves just in time before the first snow. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When the golf ends for the year our efforts to maintain the course do not end. In fact, some of our most productive work is conducted in the off season. With another winter flying by, we continue to work hard preparing for another great golf season at Stowe Country Club.</div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-9949201170781063562015-11-07T15:35:00.001-05:002015-11-08T09:07:09.989-05:00The Fall Push<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
The golf season may have
ended at the resort but the work on the golf course continues. Both golf
maintenance crews are busy with chores to put the courses to bed for the
winter. The challenge this time of year is the unpredictable weather and not
knowing when winter conditions will finally arrive. Our goal is to have all winterization chores
done by the second week of November. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXHSTx3TpfvTfiOUa2D_7g4Wr98SechrI6NmXK9vb7k0CnpxsJsfVf_sKJyZx13Qd-zic22zr5qecwp_VWBasZjBJfdaClchxxBaEwy__ZaHhBX_MgvvUpvupJH3oSuP2UZPB6TpRNY0/s1600/IMG_5915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEXHSTx3TpfvTfiOUa2D_7g4Wr98SechrI6NmXK9vb7k0CnpxsJsfVf_sKJyZx13Qd-zic22zr5qecwp_VWBasZjBJfdaClchxxBaEwy__ZaHhBX_MgvvUpvupJH3oSuP2UZPB6TpRNY0/s320/IMG_5915.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Draining spring on 11 approach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
When the courses close our first task is to bring in all
items on the course that are not anchored to the ground. These items include
tee markers, flags, benches, hazard markers, bunker rakes, ball washers, etc.
These items are thoroughly cleaned and stored safely for the winter. Tree
litter clean up is constant in these last few weeks. Whenever conditions allow
we will clean up leaves and pine needles. The irrigation systems will be
cleared of water using compressed air. Close attention is paid to this chore
because an improperly blown out system will lead to broken pipes or irrigation
heads in the spring. After the system is clear of water the pumps are dismantled
for the winter. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhhbqbNfITnoOaQ0PKY6eb8ZHPeyFJtitC1Mz4-3uIv07LOj3JlofxrzkAuaXYna5e06nZmyVUrap3aTjnvEKNJBAJXsVQbaKUUAxkWn5QvUxQyC35E51cmlofVf-Dx4fdeZM_WzlO-A/s1600/IMG_5691.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfhhbqbNfITnoOaQ0PKY6eb8ZHPeyFJtitC1Mz4-3uIv07LOj3JlofxrzkAuaXYna5e06nZmyVUrap3aTjnvEKNJBAJXsVQbaKUUAxkWn5QvUxQyC35E51cmlofVf-Dx4fdeZM_WzlO-A/s320/IMG_5691.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old picture of SCC showing original bunker contour lines on 18</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
This time period on the golf course is ideal for drainage
projects. Multiple drainage projects have already been accomplished and are
still under way. At Stowe Mountain Club (SMC), three springs that popped up
during the very wet June were fixed. Due to the mountainous terrain, springs
will pop up over time as the groundwater moves through the underlying soil and
exits at the surface. These spring diversion projects were done on eleven approach,
sixteen approach, and eighteen white tee. A large drainage project was also
completed between seven tee and 8 fairway. Due to the proximity to the dam,
this project was contracted out and was supervised by an engineer. We will be
sodding this area in the coming days so that it will be ready for play on
opening day next year.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmKfzKw-nHld2YSxdwf2qt40pXVD4cunSrFLU9EjE_MU4mu7Dqw7S15sM600k-pMMbbZqODDo4kLgJiGj6iCZynD8_NiBaHMHtlqniSHbRO6dyPQKfN5sEMDj_udDXq8vT5WAgXK87BE/s1600/IMG_5690.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmKfzKw-nHld2YSxdwf2qt40pXVD4cunSrFLU9EjE_MU4mu7Dqw7S15sM600k-pMMbbZqODDo4kLgJiGj6iCZynD8_NiBaHMHtlqniSHbRO6dyPQKfN5sEMDj_udDXq8vT5WAgXK87BE/s320/IMG_5690.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Same bunker today at SCC. Notice how bunker has grown in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
At Stowe Country Club (SCC), we are close to completing
the bunker restoration on the eighteenth green. These bunkers had grown in over
time and water would puddle in the bunkers after rain event. These bunkers were
re-contoured to the original shape, drainage was installed, and new sand was
added. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqRmkvCVIjBgU82M9tiL2c9Cen1eC9oGrrCis4jIJaK7ylciTdhPn3fGWcqrJwNIpHfxlZwd-lcNPENRJF6kkgML8ydNq9MsfY8Rv4t2MhfmQzabvpnKALJ9XESdu2fQG5ZCm6CsX24s/s1600/IMG_5986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqRmkvCVIjBgU82M9tiL2c9Cen1eC9oGrrCis4jIJaK7ylciTdhPn3fGWcqrJwNIpHfxlZwd-lcNPENRJF6kkgML8ydNq9MsfY8Rv4t2MhfmQzabvpnKALJ9XESdu2fQG5ZCm6CsX24s/s320/IMG_5986.JPG" width="320"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SMC, Applying Wintergreen to greens </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br>
Finally, in preparation for the long winter we implement
multiple preemptive measures to help the turfgrass survive. If you ski during the early season you may
notice that the greens at SMC are a vibrant green color. This is due to a paint
that is applied to the putting surface for winter protection. This product is
called Wintergreen and is a combination of a latex paint and anti-transpirant.
The logic behind this application is that it protects the turf from severe wind
damage, will prevent disease controls from degrading, and will help the soil
warm up in the Spring due to the dark green color. After painting the greens we
will lay a protective mat in areas that experienced prior winter damage. This
mat is called Enkamat and has proven to prevent ice damage. We will then cover
the entire green with a breathable cover on eight of the greens. These greens
are covered because they get windblown and do not get the protective snow
cover. Some of the same measures are implemented at SCC, but not all.<br>
<br>
If you get a chance to enjoy touring the course this
winter please stay off of the greens. Packing the snow on the green will cause
icing which can kill turfgrass. We will rope off all the greens to identify the
location of each green. Both golf maintenance teams hope you had an enjoyable
2015 golf season. We are already preparing for another great golf season in
2016.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-12956811919439640442015-09-13T09:31:00.000-04:002015-09-13T09:31:00.726-04:00Pure StandsMaintaining pure stands of desirable turfgrass on our golf courses is the ultimate agronomic goal. The desirable grass on greens and fairways is creeping bentgrass. On tees at Stowe Country Club (SCC) the desirable grass is creeping bentgrass. At Stowe Mountain Club (SMC), the tees are a mixture of Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue. The rough at both golf courses is also the mixture of Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue. Finally, the desirable grass in the no-mow high grass areas that sit on the edge of golf holes is a blend of fine fescues. At SCC, while creeping bentgrass is most desirable, the fine fescues are considered desirable in all playing surfaces except greens. <br />
<br />
<br />
<span id="goog_1577826438"></span><span id="goog_1577826439"></span>The purpose of this goal is based on playability. When multiple different grasses or weeds populate a playing surface ball roll and shot making are both negatively impacted. On greens, pure stands of creeping bentgrass is desirable because it will provide the smoothest ball roll. The creeping nature of the bentgrasses allows for the ability to mow at low heights of cut. The non desirable grass that we manage against is Poa annua or annual bluegrass. Poa annua is present in the greens at SCC but not at SMC. In the spring, the Poa annua will produce a seedhead which in turn makes for a very bumpy and irregular putting surface. Additionally, Poa annua is not as tolerant to stresses as bentgrass is and will decline in the summer and winter if conditions become severe.<br />
<br />
On tees, the two golf courses differ in the desirable grasses but the purity of the turf is still important. Weeds such as crabgrass are kept at bay because of its coarse leaves that produce an uneven surface. Poa annua is considered a weed on both sets of tees because of it's clumpy growth habit. The interesting aspect of our tees is that while creeping bentgrass is the desirable grass at SCC it is considered a non-desirable grass at SMC. The bluegrass/fescue mixture was chosen for tees at SMC due to it's low maintenance costs and durability. Creeping bentgrass has invaded the teeing surface and is now considered a weed on tee surfaces. The bentgrass got into the tees during construction. The bentgrass seed is very small and subsequently was tracked onto the tees from the shoes of the construction workers and was in poorly cleaned drop seeders. As time progressed this aggressive grass has spread. Removal of this grass is needed because the blotchy nature of the bentgrass patches can be distracting to the eye and the feel underfoot is completely different from the bluegrass/fescue mix. Additionally, the agronomic requirements for bentgrass is different than bluegrass/fescue making proper management a challenge.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3O07z-NqcWf7hqBSqXQW1Qeneuy86nab3Fud34DbACDEybkAiQWfUCp1WrSv33ePcXFR2lsTZGNiFbOCxFupDbtjvbTz4re8McKQW6M7kFkX-bOuwCwc4YPSUGxgUGbLK48g05_TsRCY/s1600/IMG_3562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3O07z-NqcWf7hqBSqXQW1Qeneuy86nab3Fud34DbACDEybkAiQWfUCp1WrSv33ePcXFR2lsTZGNiFbOCxFupDbtjvbTz4re8McKQW6M7kFkX-bOuwCwc4YPSUGxgUGbLK48g05_TsRCY/s320/IMG_3562.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pure Creeping Bentgrass #7 Fairway at SMC </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
On fairways, creeping bentgrass is the best possible playing surface. Kept weed and Poa annua free, a pure bentgrass fairway provides the best possible shot making experience.<br />
<br />
In the rough areas, bluegrass/fescue mixtures are the most desirable grass stand because of the upright growth habit. This growth habit props the ball up providing a good lie. Broadleaf and crabgrass weeds can present a problem if the populations are too high causing difficult lies. As with the tees at SMC, creeping bentgrass is considered a weed in rough areas at both golf courses. The reason for this is that when bentgrass is mowed at rough height of two and a half inches, the bentgrass becomes very puffy. Playing out of a bentgrass rough is difficult because the golf ball settles deep into the puffy bentgrass and the grass will grab the golf club causing errant shots.<br />
<br />
In the no-mow areas the fescue grasses are the desirable stand of grass. The fescues have a growth habit that allows for the golf ball to be found and advanced even when the grass is left to grow high and seed out. These fescue areas provide a look to the golf course that is very aesthetically pleasing, especially when the grass turns brown. Weeds and pasture grasses must be kept out of these areas because finding and hitting a ball out of non-pure stands of fescue is very difficult resulting in errant shots and slow play.<br />
<br />
The strategy to accomplish the goal of pure stands is varied. When it comes to growing pure creeping bentgrass there are some basic rules. The timing of aerification is very important. Both SCC and SMC greens were both recently aerated because late August and early September is the best time for this. The reason for this is that Poa annua will not germinate when the soil temperatures are warm. Aerating in April and October is avoided due to the cool soil temps and the possibility of increasing the Poa annua populations when the putting surface is opened up due to aeration. The aeration is necessary to maintain proper organic matter and thatch levels. When bentgrass gets too thatchy it can begin to thin and weeds will encroach into the stand. Specific growth regulators are used to promote bentgrass growth and discourage Poa annua growth.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmS6Ts5CBFeq33ujKfMcAddoeE9SdtSisSdiJAqCcVKHdIkd-01RGgguIpCMJRwHlK36sb_wPfgxHQcdDLZVBuizwPB8eWQTw2YU0c0pAxC-jE91qwYDAcR7_K7VfU_wlaA1leqFCyyM/s1600/IMG_5402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmS6Ts5CBFeq33ujKfMcAddoeE9SdtSisSdiJAqCcVKHdIkd-01RGgguIpCMJRwHlK36sb_wPfgxHQcdDLZVBuizwPB8eWQTw2YU0c0pAxC-jE91qwYDAcR7_K7VfU_wlaA1leqFCyyM/s320/IMG_5402.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creeping Bentgrass Turning White On #12 Tees at SMC</td></tr>
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Maintaining pure stands of Kentucky bluegrass/fescue is accomplished through the used of different herbicides. The broadleaved and crabgrass weeds can be easily controlled on an annual basis. The more difficult "weed" is creeping bentgrass. The same characteristics that make bentgrass a desirable grass in some areas is the same reason why it is difficult to remove from bluegrass/fescue stands. The aggressive and resilient characteristics of the bentgrass calls for multiple herbicide applications to remove this grass. Currently, at SMC we are in the process of removing the bentgrass from the back nine tees. The product used to remove bentgrass attacks the chlorophyll producing mechanisms of the plant causing it to turn white and eventually starve to death. Ultimately, to maintain a pure bluegrass/ fescue stand we need to produce healthy turf that will crowd out any undesirable weeds.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjcl57UtYqM7OO1yvUL6UsfYKnMziVX2Ga8Yf47yf4kW_OXUrW7bJmFk1gqiFj41eJMfjcyI7U85or8CKT1o0S-cmId55Bhpb_KC6cq_31ChgYEYZtrZzWkV3NImTO28RqfUM7B0BSKc/s1600/IMG_4957.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXjcl57UtYqM7OO1yvUL6UsfYKnMziVX2Ga8Yf47yf4kW_OXUrW7bJmFk1gqiFj41eJMfjcyI7U85or8CKT1o0S-cmId55Bhpb_KC6cq_31ChgYEYZtrZzWkV3NImTO28RqfUM7B0BSKc/s320/IMG_4957.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Pasture Grass Plant Amongst a Pure Stand of Fescue</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It is challenging to maintain pure fescue stands because of the fact we only mow these areas once per year and mowing itself is a method of weed control. The best way to maintain pure fescue is to burn these areas every year. Unfortunately, open field burning is banned in the Stowe, VT area. As a result of not being able to burn we apply herbicides that reduce the weed and pasture grass populations. Often times we will hand pull weeds if the populations are small.<br />
<br />
Maintaining pure stands of desirable grasses is our goal. How we get there is multi faceted and often challenging. Once this goal is obtained the playability of the golf courses is improved and the enjoyment of the game is increased. <br />
<br />
smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-47031065533013200502015-07-16T12:56:00.001-04:002015-07-16T12:56:13.851-04:00Stowe Country Club Update<u>General</u><br />
The weather was once again the biggest challenge over the past month. The month of June brought over ten inches of rain to Stowe Country Club. In May, we battled the extreme lack of rain and now June was the complete opposite with record setting rain totals. This "new normal" of extreme weather patterns is reality and how we prepare to overcome these challenges is the difference between success and failure. The heavy rains were a good test for the new fairway and bunker drainage. These new drainage projects performed very good and we will continue to address other wet areas by installing more drainage. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCH7gpl6HBAjdVXYxA-kq1E5rKylIttLZgVSTPevmGPDgWeBspnh_8BYAfaCeMb23o6Jt6akbp3NsFjSSPjXr5upWtKt9XYRt6QG6iTKs4jU_el8df4GWtGHu-XOP0faWR8vUFuOsqyio/s1600/blog+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCH7gpl6HBAjdVXYxA-kq1E5rKylIttLZgVSTPevmGPDgWeBspnh_8BYAfaCeMb23o6Jt6akbp3NsFjSSPjXr5upWtKt9XYRt6QG6iTKs4jU_el8df4GWtGHu-XOP0faWR8vUFuOsqyio/s320/blog+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squeegeeing greens before Kirkwood Tournament</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Kirkwood week was a challenge due to the rain. The days leading up to the event brought significant rainfall. The crew spent all day Wednesday before the tournament squeegeeing water off greens. Our sixth and final round of pushing water came as the sun went down. These efforts allowed for firmer greens for the first three days of the event. While Sunday ended in a rain-out, I am very proud of our crew's effort in preparing for the tournament. <br />
<br />
<u>Greens</u><br />
The winterkill spots have grown in very well. The repair would have been much quicker if it was not for the excessive rain in June. These areas were damaged in the winter due to the fact that they puddle with water and then freeze. The nature of these areas to puddle made it difficult for the seed to establish because of being submerged under water and being constantly washed away. As the Kirkwood tournament approached the excessive squeegeeing damaged some of the seedlings setting the recovery back even farther. Mark Finch, golf course superintendent, did a superb job with the re-establishment of these areas. Mark worked diligently on a day to day and hour by hour basis for two months to get these damaged areas back to full turf coverage. Growing in turf on established golf greens is very difficult due to the ongoing maintenance of the surrounding turf and golfer traffic. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_03McSM9HQsAoh8-MFlq6xjw028SPOrB1qSoyFWzrys9v82SekCAUMjdRJqSVrSDR8umb9nnPFlNgOhEDCp9XsKH-mDYNBf-IF4nh9H0jZFolKk0J9jgS-Xln_UH2-H0DP8dLJ3aJjYA/s1600/blog+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_03McSM9HQsAoh8-MFlq6xjw028SPOrB1qSoyFWzrys9v82SekCAUMjdRJqSVrSDR8umb9nnPFlNgOhEDCp9XsKH-mDYNBf-IF4nh9H0jZFolKk0J9jgS-Xln_UH2-H0DP8dLJ3aJjYA/s320/blog+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Root pruning at 15 tee</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<u>Tees</u><br />
There were some recent changes to the fifteenth tee. The granite tee marker and bench were moved to make room for a root pruning operation. The close proximity of this tee box to the row of white pines negatively impacts the turf quality due to shade, needle shed, and root intrusion. The shallow rooting of white pines steals water and nutrients that is needed by the turf. Root pruning cuts the tree roots before they intrude into the teeing ground. We use the drainage trencher that was purchased last year to shear the roots. This process is an annual maintenance activity that will help the fifteenth tee recover faster from divoting and wear.<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<u>Fairways</u><br />
The big push on fairways has been to achieve one hundred percent full turf coverage. The crew has been diligently seeding and sodding thin areas. Most of the damage is from poor drainage. Low areas on three, five, and twelve have had chronic thin areas. This is unacceptable for myself and staff. We will continue to sod and reseed until we reach full turf coverage in fairways. <br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJxzo8XySL5Z49Mmpy6htw7gagqIigRQ3FAhjVl6P5Ptbf_kTnFbuO4VgCZP3px45kZ97yBhnR6Biy3qQtioDR4dtg6H755TrvSchxGGIDU7aR-QZYN70W5xc7kQj_YBF3MbE-t-Eov4/s1600/blog+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUJxzo8XySL5Z49Mmpy6htw7gagqIigRQ3FAhjVl6P5Ptbf_kTnFbuO4VgCZP3px45kZ97yBhnR6Biy3qQtioDR4dtg6H755TrvSchxGGIDU7aR-QZYN70W5xc7kQj_YBF3MbE-t-Eov4/s320/blog+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Construction of cart path on 4th hole. Notice old path routing <br />
to the left of new mounding.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<u>Projects</u><br />
The revitalization of the fourth hole is nearly complete. Multiple issues impacting the quality of this par three have been addressed. The over planting of trees on the left and right side of the hole blocked the view of the entire green complex and limited the use of the teeing ground due to blocked shots. A dozen trees were removed over the past two winters opening up the view of the green with surrounding mountain ridge line and providing full use of the tee. The fescue grasses that existed under the trees have come back to life and now provide a stunning framework to this hole. The cart path running along the right side was damaged in multiple sections, was too narrow for maintenance vehicles, and was positioned in a way that impacted the look of the hole. The path was repositioned and is now hidden from view. Slight mounding was added to aid in blocking the view of the cart path. Fescue was then planted along the new path to add additional screening of the path. As the fescue grass matures on both sides of the hole it will provide a stunning look to this great par three. The path is scheduled to be paved this week. Finally, the bunkers have been aggressively edged to bring back the original shape and add a better visual from the tee box. New sand was then added to provide consistent shot making. <br />
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-13441812655041620602015-06-02T09:20:00.001-04:002015-06-02T09:21:34.670-04:00The Spring Hustle<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As May has come to a close, it is a good time to review the condition of the golf courses and
discuss the projects that have occurred. The variability of the Vermont spring
is always a challenge for golf course maintenance. While planning operations is
essential, it is even more important to be able to react quickly to unexpected
challenges. </div>
<br />
The biggest challenge this spring has been the dry
weather. While recent rains have helped, early spring rain did not occur. The successful start up
and operation of both irrigation systems has been of extreme importance.
As the turf completes its winter dormancy and begins to grow, the need for
water is crucial to initiate growth. While it might be hard to believe, early
irrigation in May is crucial for positive turf growth. Turf is grown in
sand based systems that can lose moisture quickly. In addition, the closely
mown turf is very susceptible to moisture loss. Compounding the challenge of
irrigating in a dry spring, a deep frost layer caused an above average
number of breaks in the irrigation system piping. The turf care
teams have been hustling to repair these breaks so that
irrigation can continue. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgYml2fqF-KTjUZcqp6JVQgLF_30HlXltIV48lzuhREzlhmWP-2bbdLK-FPBsHJ6EGZa_FxAVuAUhyphenhyphenizQw8rb3A5SPqC1bml0TmuFaWULI_aaAMWsLiEX3o8QHuj6h-6Y617vR2yfwzVw/s1600/IMG_4343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgYml2fqF-KTjUZcqp6JVQgLF_30HlXltIV48lzuhREzlhmWP-2bbdLK-FPBsHJ6EGZa_FxAVuAUhyphenhyphenizQw8rb3A5SPqC1bml0TmuFaWULI_aaAMWsLiEX3o8QHuj6h-6Y617vR2yfwzVw/s320/IMG_4343.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9th green at Stowe Country Club. Notice standing water in the <br />
damaged areas. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Stowe Mountain Club (SMC) and Stowe Country
Club (SCC) courses were impacted by winterkill this spring. The two reasons for
winterkill this year were crown hydration and wind desiccation.
Stowe Mountain Club received desiccation damage on the first tee and sixth
green. Those two areas were impacted due to the exposure to the severe north
winds in the winter. In my eleven years at Stowe Mountain Club, I have never
seen these levels of wind desiccation damage. The damage occurs due to the
severe winds simply drying out the above ground tissue of the turf. Most often
the turf can withstand the winter winds, this year the extended cold weather
coupled with high winds pushed the turf to the extreme limit.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This spring both courses were impacted by
crown hydration. Ideal turf growing conditions during spring
thaw requires sufficient surface drainage preventing standing water.
Crown hydration occurs when night time temperatures drop below freezing. The
cells in the turf plant will explode due to the freezing standing water.
The common theme with this type of damage occurs in chronic wet areas.
Stowe Country Club experienced crown hydration on the greens of one, nine,
thirteen, and eighteen. At Stowe Mountain Club the damage occurred in the low
lying areas of the fairways. The worst of the damage at
SMC was found on eight and twelve. The turf care
teams have seeded the damaged areas and positive germination has
occurred. Full coverage is expected by the end of June. In reviewing the
best options for damage prevention in the future, the installation of sub
surface drainage to these wet areas will significantly reduce the potential for
crown hydration.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Currently, the Stowe Mountain
Club crew is wrapping up a couple drainage projects that were initiated in
the late Fall of 2014. The hillside on the eleventh hole had drainage installed
to firm up the slope due to springs emerging through the turf. These springs
were captured and piped through the fairway. The fourteenth fairway had
drainage installed to help prevent winter damage and help firm up the fairway
after rain events. These projects are in the final stages of completion.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At Stowe Country Club a large
key culvert was replaced in the practice field. The old pipe was made of metal
and was rusted out creating multiple sinkholes holes in the field. Coupled with
this project is the addition of target greens in the practice field. When completed
there will be four greens for players to hit at. These greens will replace the
current poles. The design of these target greens is such that they are raised
slightly above the field and the top surface will be mowed at a short height.
This raised angle and low cut will provide a larger target for players to aim
at and improve their game. Two of the four greens have been shaped and seeded.
the other two are still under construction. As an added visual aesthetic, there
will be pseudo bunkers placed in front of these greens. These features will
look like bunkers but will be built in such a manner that mowing and picking
balls will not be extra maintenance. </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwMUx09Y0ec5J7VeEujg9jDW9SDwvkd85nE3vx8Gn9je3DlH6wiLzH-ImLAeoWCyL4T5HCyn_fyxtrvC1j6TbCEwe_MkLa_z_-AmzlBFkhgXSdxa8P7PtrdidvDsQ35UbQZBQrL37b2k/s1600/IMG_4437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJwMUx09Y0ec5J7VeEujg9jDW9SDwvkd85nE3vx8Gn9je3DlH6wiLzH-ImLAeoWCyL4T5HCyn_fyxtrvC1j6TbCEwe_MkLa_z_-AmzlBFkhgXSdxa8P7PtrdidvDsQ35UbQZBQrL37b2k/s320/IMG_4437.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wash pad at Stowe Country Club. Notice grass clipping<br />
separation system in trough. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Finally, a project was
completed at the SCC maintenance facility that has revolutionized how the turf
care team conducts business on a daily basis. A new equipment wash pad
was constructed away from the fourteenth tee box. Prior to this new wash area,
all equipment was washed directly adjacent to the tee box. The subsequent
activity and smell of decaying grass clipping significantly impacted the
golfing experience. The new location is on the other side of the road out of
site of the public and golfers. The construction of the wash area is such that
grass clippings can be managed properly reducing the odor and the water runoff
is treated using a natural buffering system. Maintaining great golfing
conditions starts with effective, efficient, and safe working conditions at the
maintenance facility. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While the dry May weather has
presented some challenges for the grounds staff, the dry firm conditions have
been excellent for golf. I hope everyone has had the opportunity to get out and
play. Our two golf courses are very close to rebounding from winter and will
soon be in top form. Thank you for your patience and assistance while we
continue to maintain and improve the golfing experience at Stowe Mountain
Resort.</div>
smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-11399425707109090332015-02-07T18:06:00.001-05:002015-02-07T18:06:42.589-05:00A Short Look Back and a Long Look Forward<div style="text-align: justify;">
The 2014 Golf Season was defined by the epic level of turf injury that occurred from the severe winter weather of the "Polar Vortex". Widespread turf loss was reported throughout the Northeast and Canada. Unfortunately, six greens at each of Stowe's courses experienced some type of turf loss. The areas that experienced the most damage were greens seven and thirteen at Stowe Mountain Club (SMC) and twelve and thirteen at Stowe Country Club (SCC). Fairway damage was also significant at each course. While many golf courses suffered for months with visible damage it was hard to find any damage on either of Stowe's courses by late June. The hard work and diligence of both crews is commendable. </div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Late Fall of 2014 was a productive time at SCC with focus on drainage, infrastructure repair, and tree management. Most projects on the to-do list were completed with exception being the repair to the green-side bunker on the ninth hole. Completed was the repair to the bunker on one green and the fairway bunker on eighteen. Good sand and new drainage were installed, and the bunkers will play and look better in any type of weather. The re-contouring of the bunker on eighteen provides an important architectural feature-the hazard is now visible from the tee.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk-rmJj1shs6GRuIXNlp6tVjzz29I4TxiVRDA86e1MgeTBtRwqkr1zpBfnV1wX-hLuxMdYE8pvXhkRDEBdUEPRcAqwKUeDtJgPIeW7DOkAJbvUwUWtqdiTg35heXxabXUoCzA5LPMNL0g/s1600/IMG_3550.JPG" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Re-contouring SCC 18 Fairway Bunker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Last season a tremendous amount of work went into improving the drainage at both courses. "Slit drainage" was installed in multiple areas. Slit drainage utilizes a unique two inch pipe that is back filled with straight sand. This design has proven its success on our clay based soils. The fairway drainage on nine and eighteen will now allow for firmer playing conditions especially during extended wet periods. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibOFwm7qFyevpDBijlPCt2nZF92Ke3IVNc5oN-5emDBieR0NOvPCTMdcyGEhKTuPh9DJPJus5rkdDBM_N3aj037AJE3d3k0j5oJhfAx1aNpiuZaDmrDknRNxVw1UmSeFAr3NzeJwoJXp4/s1600/IMG_3613.JPG" height="240" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Installing Drainage SMC 14 Fairway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The unique location of the SMC course provides a challenge for turf survival due to the length and intensity of the winter weather. We are continually developing new methods and practices to prevent winter kill. Keeping the playing surfaces free of standing water is paramount to good in-season playing conditions and winter survival. At the SMC course, fairway drainage work was initiated on eleven, fourteen, and fifteen. Many of the new drainage lines were left open for the winter to assist in water movement during the spring thaw. These areas will be recovered before opening day. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This winter we have been busy with the continued implementation of the SCC tree management program. For more information and to review this program, read the blog posted on 5/11/14. As it was last year, the focus this winter is on damaged trees that pose a safety hazard and trees that are overgrown and impacting play and the aesthetic of the course.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Golf is a game of options. Many of the trees found next to teeing grounds force the player to play only one type of shot. Opening up the tee shot to multiple options is a sign of a well designed golf course. For example, two white pines were recently removed from the ninth tee. These two white pines forced play to the left from the white and blue tee box. From the back tee, the tee shot was exceptionally narrow due to the overgrown canopy. Players now have the option to draw or fade the ball into the landing area. The next trees to be removed will be the white pines behind the sixteenth green. These four trees have been damaged by the violent storms that have rolled through the area in the past decade. The interior of the trees have signs of rot and are deemed hazardous. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTA9SZpHTcmYgH32tmXG-GzVypyIhHDoUTrZUftdv-WKL1fh1u6o8qtsUgRd1y-3fwItY3wlnFOtsEivogQRhajDEzZfxmJvbC0pTLOrcMbXMVaZiv3q7j68U7KgmcXB2wwEPlNWRiP3w/s1600/IMG_2475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTA9SZpHTcmYgH32tmXG-GzVypyIhHDoUTrZUftdv-WKL1fh1u6o8qtsUgRd1y-3fwItY3wlnFOtsEivogQRhajDEzZfxmJvbC0pTLOrcMbXMVaZiv3q7j68U7KgmcXB2wwEPlNWRiP3w/s1600/IMG_2475.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Pine behind SCC 16 green with severe <br />
structural damage and rot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
From an architectural perspective the number sixteen green sits atop a beautiful rise that provides a panoramic view. It is a common misnomer that all golf greens need some type of backdrop for the purposes of "framing". While in some cases a frame provides focus and depth, in others an open sight-line behind a green can also provides an exciting challenge for golfers. In researching the course history the architect, William F. Mitchell, did not intend for this particular green complex to have a backdrop of trees. As a result, no replacement plan is in place once these damaged trees are cleared.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
The Stowe Golf Agronomic Team is excited for the upcoming 2015 golf season and we hope the winter weather is as good to the golf courses as it has been to the skiers and riders. While we continue to enjoy the winter season, we will continue working hard at both Stowe Country Club and Stowe Mountain Club. </div>
<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-90264197521596677932014-09-20T13:01:00.001-04:002015-02-03T15:38:00.585-05:00A Work In Progress<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Golf courses are in a perpetual state of decline. It is no different from any other manmade object. A house, a car, or a road will eventually need some type of maintenance activity to keep it performing and looking good. Additionally, due to the fact that golf courses are a living and breathing (respiring actually) thing they can also be compared to human health. When neglected, the body and mind will decline at a faster rate than one that has had preventive health care and proper nutrition. Providing the golf course with proper nutrition, preventive treatments to ward off pests, removal of excess thatch, repair of failed infrastructure, and proper tree management ensures its long term health.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While the term "a work in progress" often refers to a situation that needs work to become good, in the golf course world, it refers to the concept that the act of continual work is paramount to the future health and playability of the course. The simplest example of such work is aeration. The Mountain and Village course greens are two to three weeks out from a hollow core aeration. While the greens are a bit bumpy in the immediate days following aeration it is the long term health and performance of the greens that need focus. The removal of thatch and organic matter through hollow core aeration prevents soft greens that footprint easily and become bumpy, stay wet for extended periods, are more prone to disease, and become more susceptible to winter injury.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The more complex work is the revitalization and repair of golf course features. Such work includes drainage repair and installation, repairing damaged cart paths, tee top leveling, re-contouring of bunker edges, and tree work. Some of this work occurred this Spring while other work will occur this Fall.</div>
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<u>Stowe Mountain Club</u></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
Continued aeration. Fairway aeration is ongoing. We are currently half way through this process. With</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_nfUBx3bImgIvN6T3EkyoGYa6Djg9RWL4Xi04dyxAuEb7GVzUQFWePE97U4LCkO25v79_NTUdvtU9Ixi8LubGhL9uAmfqeKR0ZrHdDX7aUJVtnY5uXrFln7s-eVjk8sf74P1Yj-NuWM/s1600/IMG_3479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ_nfUBx3bImgIvN6T3EkyoGYa6Djg9RWL4Xi04dyxAuEb7GVzUQFWePE97U4LCkO25v79_NTUdvtU9Ixi8LubGhL9uAmfqeKR0ZrHdDX7aUJVtnY5uXrFln7s-eVjk8sf74P1Yj-NuWM/s1600/IMG_3479.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fairway aeration and clean up</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
good weather this process will be complete by next week. Tees and approaches will follow and only take a couple days to complete.</div>
</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Drainage on the right side of eleven fairway. This hillside is crucial to the playability of this hole. Tee shots that hit the hill stand a good chance of rolling back to the fairway. Due to some groundwater springs, this hillside is often soft and impedes the ball from rolling to the fairway. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Extend drainage in fourteen fairway. Last Fall, a main drain line was installed near the landing area. The main purpose of this line is to alleviate chronic winterkill caused by excessive wet turf during snow melt. The installation of this drain line was successful in limiting the amount of winterkill this Spring. This line will be extended and laterals will be installed to further eliminate the potential for winterkill.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Fairway drainage on fifteen fairway. As with fourteen, this fairway succumbs to winterkill due to wet conditions during snow melt. Drainage will be installed to assist with winter survival.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">An ongoing project is the repair of a ground water spring above the first landing area on the eighth fairway. Due to the proximity to the dam, this project has been a slow and deliberate process. The design to alleviate this chronic wet spot has been highly engineered and managed. A subcontractor is currently being secured to finish the project. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">New forward tees have been built on the third hole and eighth hole. The third hole tee is now open. The eighth tee was constructed from the spoils of the previously discussed wet spot on eight. This tee has been seeded and will open Spring of 2015. </li>
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Fescue has been planted along the stone collar on the ninth hole. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIwfdSetWkIZ_gZaGVgtL4UqOQNyF30xpxklOwuzPAdJwPECnHKbThay_JYUcCiHHAjAWTz1cV7tlzkG1Cr_KdGpgfDwNKxPMNGlSOzDFPCHsvLO6_UBHVoLAyg9w2ECo0zdG0zZ33PQ/s1600/IMG_3343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIwfdSetWkIZ_gZaGVgtL4UqOQNyF30xpxklOwuzPAdJwPECnHKbThay_JYUcCiHHAjAWTz1cV7tlzkG1Cr_KdGpgfDwNKxPMNGlSOzDFPCHsvLO6_UBHVoLAyg9w2ECo0zdG0zZ33PQ/s1600/IMG_3343.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collar extension on #9</td></tr>
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This work also used the spoils from the drainage project on the eighth hole. Planting fescue along the edge of Peregrine Lake softens the look of the stone and allows for additional playability to mis-hit tee shots. </div>
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</div>
</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The collar on the right side of the ninth hole has been extended. This collar extension was done to aid in the approach shot bouncing to the left and landing on the green. Collar extensions similar to this work have been installed on the sixth, eighth, eleventh, and thirteenth. These creeping bentgrass collar extensions are done to assist with better playability around the greens. </li>
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<u>Stowe Country Club</u></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Tee aeration is complete. Fairways and approaches will be aerated after Stowe Mountain Club is complete. All of the aeration equipment is shared between both courses. Aeration at Stowe Country Club is very important because of the heavy clay soils that exist under all the features. Alleviating soil compaction and increasing surface drainage is part of the ongoing work that promotes healthy turf and good playability in all weather conditions.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">A new culvert pipe was installed at the practice facility field. This pipe transfers water from a stream that enters the field on the west side. The existing pipe was an old metal pipe that had completely rusted and caved in. Prior to the installation of the new pipe being, water would flow onto the field and pool up for extended periods of time.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">A new culvert pipe was installed on the thirteenth hole. This pipe had completely failed like the one on <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKFz2gVoAwjtpeRkPEWmosODl7azKJnKed0A__wJ2bH2dAvYhL19sr05qiJPNR-OhzOKTaXVsFloh7PGRySsSQUjltH6Vy59DEc8sWQVUjkZh66QG3zBfPsf8kbARfKj4T-B_mAs5ZwE/s1600/IMG_2701.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGKFz2gVoAwjtpeRkPEWmosODl7azKJnKed0A__wJ2bH2dAvYhL19sr05qiJPNR-OhzOKTaXVsFloh7PGRySsSQUjltH6Vy59DEc8sWQVUjkZh66QG3zBfPsf8kbARfKj4T-B_mAs5ZwE/s1600/IMG_2701.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silted bunker on #13</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
the practice field. During the Winter melt, the pipe collapsed and silted in the greenside bunker. The pipe was replaced and the bunker was also repaired. New drainage was installed in the bunker along with all new sand being added. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">New forward tees have been constructed on the sixth and ninth holes. The ninth tee opened recently and the sixth tee may open in a few weeks if the weather provides good growing conditions. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The final step in drying up the seventh hole was completed this Spring. The wetland to the left of the landing area was leaching water through the soil creating chronic wetness in the fairway. An interceptor drain was installed to divert this water away from the fairway. <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLKM2R0q7yNThtYgq9sISJc6bSe2ZOvsoUOKE5Vi1hTOBNdfh3k4i7IUkOF0VIhAaX373XCGoag_2vmbXPcSfdhXZt60inslA6QjonNrCDCe19GU0yf22XiD1CyhLh5TRRs5gP5uKmGY/s1600/IMG_2900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuLKM2R0q7yNThtYgq9sISJc6bSe2ZOvsoUOKE5Vi1hTOBNdfh3k4i7IUkOF0VIhAaX373XCGoag_2vmbXPcSfdhXZt60inslA6QjonNrCDCe19GU0yf22XiD1CyhLh5TRRs5gP5uKmGY/s1600/IMG_2900.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Repaired #13 bunker with drainage</td></tr>
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</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The new upper practice tee was opened during Kirkwood week. We doubled the size of the tee surface, moved the ball machine away from the road, eliminated a small practice green and bunker that had gone into disrepair, and provides a new staging area for carts during tournaments and outings.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">This Fall, we plan on repairing multiple bunkers and fairways. These projects will commence immediately. The order of completion is as listed below. </li>
</ul>
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<div>
<ul><ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Multiple laterals will be installed on the eighteenth fairway. This work was started last Fall by installing a drainage mainline. We will connect multiple laterals to this mainline in the coming weeks.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The fairway bunker on the right of eighteen will be re-contoured and drainage will be installed. This bunker has grown in over the years and pools up after rain events.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">A mulch bed will be installed underneath the spruce grove on the left of eighteenth hole. This work will be done to provide definition to the landing area and to protect the future health of these trees.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The greenside bunker on the first hole will be repaired. Currently, water leaches out of the bunker and settles near the approach. This area has turned into a chronic wet area that is very difficult to play out of. Additionally, the general appearance of this area is very poor and should be corrected because it sets the tone for the entire golf course. Internal drainage in the bunker will be installed to transfer the water away from the playing area and new sand will be added.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The second half of the ninth fairway will be drained and the greenside bunker will be repaired. This fairway does not drain after rain events. A main line will be installed with multiple laterals. The bunker will be re-contoured to divert surface drainage away from entering the bunker, internal drainage will be installed, and new sand will be added. </li>
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All of this work is being done with an eye on the future. The short term disruption to play is done for the long term goal of the continued enjoyment of both golf courses by the members and players. This continued enjoyment is based soundly on the hard work of the maintenance team and the commitment of Stowe Mountain Resort to provide great conditions. We thank you for your patience and understanding while all of this work is in progress. </div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-35468934382397786032014-08-24T20:38:00.001-04:002014-09-30T08:41:19.555-04:00Fescue Revitilization Project<div style="text-align: justify;">
Approximately ten years ago Stowe Country Club created a plan to stop mowing selected rough areas to reduce operational costs associated with mowing. These areas were previously mowed at the rough height of 2.5 inches. The savings were created by less fuel from the reduced acreage and in the reduction of man hours it took to mow. Additionally, there was less wear on the mowing equipment. A second aspect of this plan was to add a new aesthetic to the golf holes. </div>
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This new aesthetic aspect for the golf course is where the plan fell short. While the idea was good, the execution lacked follow through. As time progressed, the high rough areas were overrun with field grasses and weeds which resembled an unkempt pasture. From a golfing aspect, finding a golf ball in the weeds and thick pasture grass was almost impossible. The other negative aspect is that the look of weedy high grass areas presented the impression of neglect. Playing a golf course that has clean visual lines is a pleasant and inspirational experience. The opposite feels chaotic and distracting. </div>
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Earlier this year, a plan was initiated to revitalize these high grass areas to add a positive aesthetic to the course in addition to making them more playable. The plan is centered to promote the growth and establishment of fescue grasses. Fescue is a thin bladed grass that predominates on golf courses throughout Scotland, England, Ireland, and Wales. In these regions, fescue is a definitive characteristic of a links golf course. The actual playing surfaces, greens, tees, and fairways, are fescue on these European courses. However, the true charm and beauty of a links course is the un-mown fescue that surrounds a golf hole. The wispy seed stalks of fescue that turn a golden brown starting in mid-summer create the true beauty of a links course. Of course, fescue is not just on links courses. Many golf courses, wherever the region, have fescue in the outer rough areas to provide that beautiful flowing golden look. The 2015 US Open will be played at Chambers Bay in Washington. This golf course is built on an abandoned quarry and was planted to fescue. Greens, tees, fairways, and rough are pure fescue stands. From it's inception, Stowe Mountain Club focused on maintaining expansive stands of fescue that frame many of the golf holes. The aesthetic created by the fescue during this time of year is beautiful. Besides the aesthetics, the other important aspect of fescue is the ease to find your golf ball and to successfully advance it. This is accomplished by planting fescue on low quality soil, never irrigating, and never fertilizing the grass. The thinner the better. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFFngCaY6LMKQr0r2Zvttn8fYCkajapDcAMF38rxAwVp14B1t5YSriOfDzHEcOHLzpBQOP8MpVbw3Qge_yT9KvnlIw34uN6A_JEVMACO7lziwL22EkT5cXBht1faMeP8Xt2nRNF1YtGs/s1600/IMG_3345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFFngCaY6LMKQr0r2Zvttn8fYCkajapDcAMF38rxAwVp14B1t5YSriOfDzHEcOHLzpBQOP8MpVbw3Qge_yT9KvnlIw34uN6A_JEVMACO7lziwL22EkT5cXBht1faMeP8Xt2nRNF1YtGs/s1600/IMG_3345.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elimination of non-desirable grass surrounding thriving fescue<br />
Between the 6th green and 7th tee</td></tr>
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The challenge at Stowe Country Club is that the fescue areas are overgrown with weeds and non-fescue grass and the soil has high water retention and nutrient holding capacity. Elimination of the weeds and field grasses is being executed with products that will eliminate all the undesirable plants but the fescue. Multiple applications are needed since many weeds and non-fescue grasses can be very persistent. Multiple mowing is another aspect of the revitalization of the fescue. Multiple mowing throughout the year will eliminate the ability for weeds to seed out, and will cause the depletion of the carbohydrate reserve of the plant that will eventually lead to the plants decline. The mowing will conversely help the fescue thrive and spread. Check out the recent USGA article on this topic. <a href="http://www.usga.org/course_care/regional_updates/regional_reports/northeast/Weeds-And-Seeds---July-2014/">USGA ARTICLE</a></div>
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This process takes time. Expansive stands of fescue at Stowe Country Club will take three to five years. As these areas are denuded of undesirable plants, new fescue will be sown. Maturation of fescue after establishment is slow taking three to four years. We appreciate your patience during this conversion. The end product will be worth the time and effort. Once established, the fescue will provide a beautiful aesthetic to a round of golf and it may even lower your score. For more information on fescue, visit a prior blog titled "Fescue".</div>
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smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-42271275558857564012014-07-02T11:53:00.001-04:002014-09-30T08:43:25.610-04:00BentgrassBentgrass is the preferred turfgrass on fairways and greens in the northeast. The ability to tolerate low cutting heights, aggresive lateral growth habit, dense canopy, and stress tolerance make it a suitable playing surface for the game of golf. The predominant species of bentgrass is creeping bentgrass. Within this species there are hundreds of cultivars. The breeding of creeping bentgrass is a very competitive business due to the golf course industry. The other type of bentgrass is velvet bentgrass. This bentgrass had its hayday in the 1950's and 60's on golf courses. It is an old variety of bentgrass and existed before many creeping bentgrasses were bred for golf turf. Since that time creeping bentgrass has surpassed velvet bentgrass as the preferred golf course turf.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRcrrj0OrbNZHZbvIT5cuuwW9BSS1F9dJm4xzqUMOTORrda4UreYMMdjXGrGY98j12sKBwYLL_tGp-PEyyvj31-0aXZ3lDW5SaAvQ-MXljPuSrTe1uz2pJWc2c98sM2m9dVr4SFxyJDk/s1600/IMG_2959.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtRcrrj0OrbNZHZbvIT5cuuwW9BSS1F9dJm4xzqUMOTORrda4UreYMMdjXGrGY98j12sKBwYLL_tGp-PEyyvj31-0aXZ3lDW5SaAvQ-MXljPuSrTe1uz2pJWc2c98sM2m9dVr4SFxyJDk/s1600/IMG_2959.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graden cultivation</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We manage both courses in a manner that promotes bentgrass. We do not simply grow "grass". Our mission is to promote bentgrass growth and overtime increases its population on greens and fairways. Stowe Mountain Club has A4 creeping bentgrass on the greens and L93 creeping bentgrass on the fairways. These two grasses were chosen by Billy Fuller from Bob Cupp Design, the golf course architect. Billy was the Agronomist for Bob Cupp during the construction of the course. The interesting story behind A4 is that Billy worked with Dr. Joe Duitch from Penn State to breed this specific cultivar. While the superintendent at Augusta National in the early 1980's, Billy showed Dr. Duitch a patch of bentgrass on the par 3 course that exhibited a very tight and smooth growth habit. From that patch the A4 bentgrass was bred to be what it is today. It is one of the premier bentgrasses for putting greens in the world. The "A" stands for Augusta. The L93 bentgrass in the fairways is also a newer cultivar. It is considered a workhorse in the golf industry. It is a very versatile turf that can also be used for tees and greens. The tees at the Mountain Course are not bentgrass but rather a blend of chewing fescue and dwarf Kentucky bluegrass.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCN5gFsKVKgQ0xN884noA8I1ItjSuc8bD1FnAy16uw55aBgNZNQnY_Ay2Qa2YROStjlh6S1mzRgNCiIJ7FytLEBUrSCdEO1D69Vq_MKWfsBVN_vESZn8fnkC3MVLUEtW5cGPiTNfSPHg/s1600/IMG_3011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYCN5gFsKVKgQ0xN884noA8I1ItjSuc8bD1FnAy16uw55aBgNZNQnY_Ay2Qa2YROStjlh6S1mzRgNCiIJ7FytLEBUrSCdEO1D69Vq_MKWfsBVN_vESZn8fnkC3MVLUEtW5cGPiTNfSPHg/s1600/IMG_3011.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Core aeration cultivation</td></tr>
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Stowe Country Club has a much more diverse mix of turf species. The greens are a mixture creeping bentgrass, velvet bentgrass, and annual bluegrass. Many of you know annual bluegrasss by its scientific name, Poa annua. This mixture of grasses creates a very challenging scenario for reaching the goal of smoothness. You can identify velvet bentgrass by it's very fine leaf blade, dense growth habit (looks like moss) and it's soft puffy feeling under foot. It is also visible on the greens due to its round patchy growth. In between these velvet patches is Penncross creeping bentgrass. Unlike A4 and L93, Penncross is a very old cultivar. In fact, it is considered one of the first cultivars of creeping bentgrass. Pencross has been around for many decades and can still be purchased to this day. Pencross is known for its aggressive creeping or lateral growth habit. This can be viewed as a positive aspect due to its ability to creep laterally to fill in any damaged area or divot. However, on greens it is a negative attribute because it produces very long leaf blades that makes for slower and grainy greens.<br />
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In <u>The History of Stowe Country Club</u> author Lynn Altadonna, explained that the greens were sodded to velvet bentgrass when the 18 hole course was built in 1962/63. The sod came from a defunct golf course called Kearsarge Golf Club in New Hampshire. The Village Course architect, William Mitchell, was known throughout New England for using and promoting the use of velvet bentgrass. There is no doubt that he had a role in this procurement of sod. The problem with sodding greens, especially velvet, as opposed to seeding greens is the existing thatch layer. Thatch is the layer of old stem material that builds up below the turf surface. Bentgrasses as a whole are prolific thatch producers. While thatch is simply the by-product of producing quality playing surfaces, proper thatch management of is the difference between good and bad turf. The basis of proper thatch management is to mechanically remove the thatch through core aeration and vertical mowing. The USGA recommends the removal of 15-20% of thatch surface annually for quality playing surfaces. This chart explains how to get to those percentages <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0ByhOqYSanrCsbzBBMUlFeTdSVnBoaTdCRFB2Zjl3Y3hzVDlJ/edit?usp=sharing">Surface Impact</a>. The strategy at Stowe Country Club is to complete two 1/2 inch core aerations at 1 x 2 inch spacing with an additional Graden verticut. All three methods of cultivation equate to an 18% surface impact. At Stowe Mountain Club a less aggressive management is effective due to the young age of the greens to where the frequency of aerification will impact 10% of the surface.<br />
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As stated earlier, velvet bentgrass has fallen out of favor in the golf course industry. The main reason for this is that it is the most prolific thatch producer out of all the cool season grasses. If aggressive aeration and vertical mowing is not done on a regular basis the velvet will become puffy, bumpy, and play poorly. Since velvet at Stowe Country Club was initially installed and was not aggressively cultivated over the years, it has aggressively produced a determinate layer of thatch. Moving forward, proper agronomic practices will be initiated such as aggressive aeration and verticutting to regain the quality of the putting surface. In addition to controlling thatch levels, the cultivation of the greens will assist in conditioning the Penncross to be much smoother and less grainy.<br />
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It is our goal at Stowe Golf to produce excellent playing conditions through the production of quality bentgrass. Thank you for your patience during these periodic maintenance procedures to restore the turf. We hope that players will appreciate the high quality playing surfaces that will grow in based on sound management practices.smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-18076785987744077252014-05-11T18:15:00.000-04:002014-09-30T08:44:46.467-04:00Stowe Country Club Trees<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-bottom: 0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
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<div style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The following bullet points are the foundation of our tree management program at Stowe Country Club. The strategy is to keep maintenance costs down, maintain good turf quality, maintain healthy trees, create and maintain the wonderful vistas, and eliminate obstructed tee shots.</span></div>
<ul>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%;">Tree plantings
predominated by white pine, red pine, and spruce trees (all conifers).</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">These trees were used
due to their cheap cost and quick growth.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">The over reliance of
pine and spruce species has lead to an increase in disease potential. Many
trees are showing damage from </span><i style="line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Diplodia</i><span style="line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">
blight.</span></span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">A more diversified tree
population reduces concerns of catastrophic tree loss due to pathogens or
insect pests.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Where existing tree
stands provide crucial strategic importance or screens, a diversified tree
replacement program will be considered using deciduous species.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Pine and spruce trees
create a large amount of ground litter from branch, cone and needle shedding.
This leads to direct maintenance costs due to the need to remove such litter
for </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.39px;">playability</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">. Removal of certain trees will keep maintenance costs down.</span></span></span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Root extrusion from
soil surface has caused a major playability and safety issue.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">The most effective and sustainable way
to maintain trees next to golf turf is to create mulch beds. These beds will hide tree litter
and cover exposed roots. High priority tree beds will be identified and
maintained.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Current maintenance
program is to trim the grass below trees. This requires many man hours. Installation
of tree beds will assist in keeping maintenance costs down.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Absence of tree beds
has negatively impacted health of trees due to lack of soil nutrients available.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Conifers grown in open
or “pasture” settings produce prolific branching. This branching weakens over
time and is prone to failure when impacted by wind or ice storms. This loss of
limbs after storm events creates excessive maintenance costs due to cleanup.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Trees and golf course
turf do not coexist very well due to the competition for water and nutrients.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Trees use more water
than turf. This leads to browned out turf on the edges of golf holes in midsummer
due to trees </span></span><span style="line-height: 18.39px;">out-competing</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"> turf for water. Our current center row irrigation
does not provide sufficient irrigation to the edges of golf holes to help the
turf compete with the trees for water.</span></span></span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Coniferous trees are
shallow rooted. This shallow rooting disrupts the turf surface with exposed
roots. These shallow roots steal water and nutrients from turf. A root pruning
program will be implemented to control root encroachment.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">These fast growing
softwood trees have begun to impact play due to size and improper placement. These
overgrown trees now create “forced draws or fades”. Most impact is on tee
shots. </span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Unnecessary tree
plantings of these fast growing coniferous trees have blocked beautiful vistas.
These views are a very important design aspect of Stowe Country Club and they
should not be lost to trees.</span></li>
<li style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">The thought that tree removal will make the course easier is untrue. <a href="http://gsr.lib.msu.edu/article/moeller-trees-4-18-14.pdf"> USGA Article</a></span></li>
</ul>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-86677067691202229572014-05-04T20:25:00.001-04:002014-09-30T08:45:37.350-04:00Winterkill 2014In previous posts it was predicated that the weather leading into winter was potentially harmful to golf course turf. Unfortunately, that prediction came true. The turf loss on golf courses in the northeast and beyond is of epic proportions. Veteran golf course superintendents are proclaiming that this is the worst winterkill they have experienced in their careers. The widespread area and level of damage are the main reasons this is news worthy topic. The damage consists of dinner table sized dead spots on greens to complete loss of multiple putting greens. The area of concern covers New England (seacoast to the mountains), Quebec & Ontario regions, and North Central region (Michigan and Chicago area).<br />
<br />
What happened? Simply, too much rain in January. The abundance of winter rain led to copious amounts of ice. The nail in the coffin for turf was the dramatic, almost overnight, switch from generally moderate temperatures in the early winter to a chilling continuous freeze mid winter. After the last rain event in mid January the temperatures plummeted and did not rise until April. This flash freeze scenario was a main cause of the widespread damage, especially in northern Vermont. The two other scenarios that led to turf loss were anoxia (extended ice cover) and crown hydration (spring freeze/thaw cycle). Review prior posts and "post categories" for more information on these environmental conditions.<br />
<br />
<b>Course Updates:</b><br />
Fortunately extensive turf loss was avoided, but both courses did receive isolated damage. Areas where water was unable to flow freely subsequently pooled up causing ice and turf damage. This winter emphasizes the importance of effective drainage (subsurface and surface) on golf courses. Drainage is key to creating conditions conducive to winter survival which then leads to quality conditions during the playing season.<br />
<br />
<u>Stowe Country Club</u><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3DXjIkxCUfi7zNHjrq3ygvvrSFOqcCl4jPmyA24kwXa2niaBonEBEaKLb30eo3LwjzHtGR-2MX7KSkgPDqweXdPCQJkBDCHFwNL2dnNuhY1sjyWc42C3-rKKhYP9MVTfGAZWRi9A8xmQ/s1600/IMG_2836.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3DXjIkxCUfi7zNHjrq3ygvvrSFOqcCl4jPmyA24kwXa2niaBonEBEaKLb30eo3LwjzHtGR-2MX7KSkgPDqweXdPCQJkBDCHFwNL2dnNuhY1sjyWc42C3-rKKhYP9MVTfGAZWRi9A8xmQ/s1600/IMG_2836.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">16th approach "Birdbaths"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The three historically wet greens received the most damage (3, 12, & 13). These greens have poor subsurface drainage and more importantly have very poor surface drainage. #12 is the worst of all greens. The entire lower shelf was damaged. Once the water drained to the green it pooled and froze solid. The other two greens were damaged in low spots, or "birdbaths" as I call them. Any other such birdbaths on the course were also damaged such as; 18 fairway, 16 & 17 approach and areas near drainage culverts, i.e 3 & 5 fairway. The 4th, 9th, and 10th green also received some damage. The damage on these greens was due to the freeze/thaw cycle in the spring.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHplA7k_u_jBUTSYObdQzq3_mXZsbUoeNhBcVzsu-a1pQK65EmwxhzEPMUsPfeWtRZlt4AodJz8hSxcrx7Sw9kRy0CEuupzrjNt4J24c2qAp4qjo-VSGztHslpKpo4nCkx9bR9soahHE/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxHplA7k_u_jBUTSYObdQzq3_mXZsbUoeNhBcVzsu-a1pQK65EmwxhzEPMUsPfeWtRZlt4AodJz8hSxcrx7Sw9kRy0CEuupzrjNt4J24c2qAp4qjo-VSGztHslpKpo4nCkx9bR9soahHE/s1600/IMG_2852.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14th fairway drain. Notice no winterkill below drain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<u>Stowe Mountain Club</u><br />
The good news is that the fairways did well this year. SMC did receive some damage in areas that historically pool and subsequently experience winter kill. Every year drainage is added in these areas to better winter survival to create firm playing conditions. This is an unfortunate ongoing challenge. A drain installed on hole 14 last Fall proved very successful. The bad news is that the damage to greens is more than we have seen since opening in 2007. The worst greens are 4, 7, and 13. These greens are bowl shaped and were unable to shed water fast enough when the January rains came. Other greens have smaller areas of damage at the water exit points. These areas were damaged due to what is called "collar dams". The small change in the height of cut between the green surface and the collar is enough to slow the winter rains down to form pools of water that causes ice formation. Collar dams become worse over time due to the turf maturing and forming a thick thatch. These areas will be corrected by cutting the sod out and lowering the sub-grade to make a smooth transition for water to flow freely.<br />
<br />
Moving Forward:<br />
The damaged greens on both courses were seeded earlier this week and covered. A limiting factor for good turf germination and growth are soil temperatures. A warm stretch of weather is greatly needed at this time to hasten seed germination. The covers are used to assist in warming the soil. Fairway and tee damage will be seeded this coming week. Selected areas in fairways will be sodded to speed up the recovery process. Sodding greens is not preferred due to the difficulty of feathering the new sod to the existing turf. This feathering process is much easier with fairways due to the higher height of cut.<br />
<br />
The recovery process from winterkill is one of the most difficult tasks superintendents face. Maintaining healthy turf (mowing & grooming) directly adjacent to new seedlings takes skillfulness. Additionally, restricting golfers on these recovering areas may interfere with play, which is not popular. These are challenges that can be resolved on a short and long term basis. The turf maintenance team will work diligently to grow in the newly seeded areas and continue to add drainage to prevent future damage. This is not the first time we have seen winterkill and it will certainly not be the last. Your patience with the recovery during the ensuing weeks will help us with the task ahead. I will update you on a regular basis during. You can follow me on Twitter for daily updates @kevinkomer.<br />
<br />
More information on Winterkill 2014 can be found below:<br />
<a href="http://www.clubandresortbusiness.com/2014/05/02/extent-winters-damage-new-england-courses-detailed/">Club & Business</a><br />
<a href="http://boston.cbslocal.com/video/10114566-golf-courses-hit-hard-by-snowy-winter/#.U2LKV4oqKBI.email">CBS Boston</a><br />
<a href="http://www.wmur.com/news/local-golf-courses-deal-with-severe-winter-damage/25586030#ixzz30CO8mmbH">WMUR Manchester, NH</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pressherald.com/news/Maine_greens_go_brown_from_severe_ice_damage_.html?pagenum=2">Press Herald, Maine</a><br />
<a href="http://www.gcsane.org/Golf/images/stories/Press%20Release%20winter%20damage%202014.pdf">Superintendents Association of New England</a><br />
<a href="http://migcsa.blogspot.com/2014/04/ice-what-we-know-for-sure.html?m=1">Michigan Superintendents Association</a><br />
<a href="http://www.golfcanada.ca/news/article/amateur/harsh-hand-winter/">Ontario, Canada Damage Report</a><br />
<a href="http://www.usga.org/course_care/regional_updates/regional_reports/northeast/You%E2%80%99re-Not-Alone!---April-2014/">USGA Northeast Region</a><br />
<a href="http://www.geoffshackelford.com/homepage/2014/5/3/some-chicago-courses-may-not-be-ready-until-june.html">Chicago Damage</a><br />
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<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-22329440409756432312014-04-19T19:32:00.000-04:002014-04-19T19:32:57.679-04:00The Power of 36 <div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C6EmOfiietsXdjylPiFknuQJz7_i-n9eOisWtoq2QoGA5rhjwdkCHLIOJ74uQZkIlJveFf3b0BQHg-CIvf2oB3VpIHTlaF68Nuto422loq_zZhMJFk4MryI1R2Q-zbLRpHoEx9RfQkg/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-C6EmOfiietsXdjylPiFknuQJz7_i-n9eOisWtoq2QoGA5rhjwdkCHLIOJ74uQZkIlJveFf3b0BQHg-CIvf2oB3VpIHTlaF68Nuto422loq_zZhMJFk4MryI1R2Q-zbLRpHoEx9RfQkg/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6th Hole Stowe Mountain Club</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Stowe Mountain Res</span>ort and Stowe Mountain Club have combined
efforts to present a 36-hole golfing experience for members and guests to
enjoy. The ultimate alpine golf course experience of Stowe Mountain Club will
be presented alongside the New England charm of Stowe Country Club. These two
golf courses provide players with a wide range of thrilling golf options.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is now my job to provide the leadership
for both maintenance operations as the Head of Golf Course Maintenance at Stowe
Mountain Resort. I am humbled and honored to be given the opportunity to take
care of these two unique properties. To be part of such an endeavor is thrilling. I am
additionally excited to work with Ron Philo, PGA Professional, in his role as
Golf Operations Director. While the work involved in bringing this concept to
fruition is great, both Ron and I are excited and energetic about what lies
ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImEtmw_V6IBbbaUUkttUV1Q2wRJTGxuywigeKVMsAnfZLGWjhc1ZRobxEa3MFvrRxqxPvA3mtvfvYe1wecZHAnTpuI7MMGf3nM3Lyh8yXytYvMpOvwRTqkyngY9ng2mPVYbnyrJBF7n4/s1600/IMG_2065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjImEtmw_V6IBbbaUUkttUV1Q2wRJTGxuywigeKVMsAnfZLGWjhc1ZRobxEa3MFvrRxqxPvA3mtvfvYe1wecZHAnTpuI7MMGf3nM3Lyh8yXytYvMpOvwRTqkyngY9ng2mPVYbnyrJBF7n4/s1600/IMG_2065.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">3rd Hole at Stowe Country Club</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Assembling the team to tend the two
courses is a crucial element to our success. Mark Finch, former assistant
superintendent at SMC, has been promoted to superintendent. Mark, using his
local knowledge of SMC and talents, will continue to provide excellent
conditions to bring SMC forward. Scott Rossi will remain superintendent at
Stowe Country Club to provide insight on the inner workings of SCC so that we
can progress steadfast into the future. Please view the "Our Staff"
page to learn more about the team. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This blog will be the source of information as it relates to golf
course maintenance at Stowe Mountain Resort. Posts will include topics on course conditions, construction projects, agronomy, weather events, and more. For questions or concerns please contact me at </span><a href="mailto:kkomer@stowe.com" style="font-family: inherit;">kkomer@stowe.com</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> or better yet I look
forward to chatting with you on one of the great 36 holes.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<br />smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5779858415877573017.post-84513225571520656532014-02-22T17:20:00.001-05:002014-02-24T08:49:05.898-05:00Thank You Cupid<div style="text-align: justify;">
We woke up on Valentine's day to a foot of fresh snow. For skiers and riders this storm has turned around a winter that has been far from epic. The snow stake on top of Mt. Mansfield reached 60 inches indicating that making turns in the trees is free and clear. The skiing and riding has been outstanding on and off trail all week. I am sure the snow-machine riders have been loving the deep snow pack as well. A good snow pack is much more preferred on the golf course during the winter compared to bare ground or ice. The snow provides a buffer to the extreme cold temperatures and the harsh winter winds. Snow is very porous and allows for gases to escape from the ground and allow oxygen in. In essence, snow allows the turf canopy to be protected and breathe in the winter.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgt7OSiWqdvGAvfcE5MtL3dH3GGuK_I4mY0Sz9BxR8cKf_L6eaxmkZVal2uNdsn989EIVltdz8il-vJo0pVs47ZpJ_0QsSsX0hr-gcOQIal5DdK97HNuMWlJ1WB4xxCHcja_SXXKPXqQ/s1600/IMG_2344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgt7OSiWqdvGAvfcE5MtL3dH3GGuK_I4mY0Sz9BxR8cKf_L6eaxmkZVal2uNdsn989EIVltdz8il-vJo0pVs47ZpJ_0QsSsX0hr-gcOQIal5DdK97HNuMWlJ1WB4xxCHcja_SXXKPXqQ/s1600/IMG_2344.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patchy ice on the 12th green, January 14, 2014</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Yesterday brought everyone back to the realities of our fickle New England weather. A rapid warm up made the precipitation that fell all afternoon be of the liquid state. I hate to even udder the word during February in northern Vermont. However, the reality is that .64 inches of rain fell yesterday. That is a lot of rain to fall in mid-winter. The snow pack is now much more dense allowing less of a protective buffer and more in the way of a barrier. This sealing off or barrier effect is compounded by the potential for more ice accumulation. The existing snow will absorb much of the rain but there is also a good chance that slush will form at the base. This slush will then form into ice as the temperature drops back to normal. </div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzi8SnAl1vKdZPdiFuovB-aaC3vRS8fbtZWdn9mWB5C-GXiwYSlHoubcduApXGkoDHlFOiN1blv8eVjKDgabA7v2vJm_Wc6i8cTjzHkRf5PTNyEWTJcAEYngNywKhdoKiaIToH-3vEcw/s1600/51403F60-A3C3-4D30-9DB8-EC3E96D008A0.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOzi8SnAl1vKdZPdiFuovB-aaC3vRS8fbtZWdn9mWB5C-GXiwYSlHoubcduApXGkoDHlFOiN1blv8eVjKDgabA7v2vJm_Wc6i8cTjzHkRf5PTNyEWTJcAEYngNywKhdoKiaIToH-3vEcw/s1600/51403F60-A3C3-4D30-9DB8-EC3E96D008A0.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nature's Concept</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In my last post I described a not so good scenario for golf course turf leading into mid-winter. To follow up, the subsequent days after that post stayed above freezing and rainy. Due to this continued abnormal weather, the ice accumulation on the golf course went from really bad to just bad. The rain kept falling and the ice kept melting. When the rains finally stopped in mid-January the ice coverage was half of what it had been. The total for winter rain, after this last event, is at 7.7 inches. There are still pockets of ice all over the golf course. The maintenance team is preparing to remove the snow from greens beginning in March to reveal these ice pockets. Once the snow is removed we will begin to carefully remove the ice.Removing the snow too soon exposes the tender turf to harsh conditions. Mid-March through Mid-April is always a tricky time when it comes to golf course turf survival in Northern New England. The extended ice cover and freeze-thaw cycles play havoc with the turfgrass plant as it slowly breaks out of winter dormancy.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: justify;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsv-5SvOFeGtq-4TM7gLrEL6i_5qjGwyuPVkkcRbrUUNipI9yQr-xgXM2J_OkFl7-YqP9qo6LzTCffuGduWLbgMpIoQyIQBMOeAwsbgclWivfQ8WLEB_npPEj5i3G4a1d4hsOb7pCf0hQ/s1600/IMG_2255.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsv-5SvOFeGtq-4TM7gLrEL6i_5qjGwyuPVkkcRbrUUNipI9yQr-xgXM2J_OkFl7-YqP9qo6LzTCffuGduWLbgMpIoQyIQBMOeAwsbgclWivfQ8WLEB_npPEj5i3G4a1d4hsOb7pCf0hQ/s1600/IMG_2255.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vertical black drainage pipe over catch basin<br />
13th green December 13, 2013</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
To ensure the removal of water off the turf surface during the spring thaw and winter rain events like we just had, we protect the catch basins from freezing over. Keeping the catch basins open so that water does not pool up and sit on the turf is of critical importance to winter turf survival. To assist in this we took a trick from nature. The idea came from the observation that the base of trees tended to have less snow than adjacent areas. The heat from the tree trunk warming up in the sun along with the wind swirling around them reduced the snow pack at the base of the tree. To mimic this phenomenon the maintenance team places a vertical drainage pipe directly over the catch basin. The pipe acts as a tree to help reduce the ice and snow from accumulating over the basin. These pipes also help us locate the basins in the snow so that we can be sure that the free water is moving into the basin. This practice is one of many that is done to keep the turf alive in our beautiful, yet harsh, mountain environment. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
smgcturfhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03564892188365718272noreply@blogger.com