Moving along and dodging thunderstorms
The golf courses dried out nicely this week. Not a one rain storm hit us with anything significant and we were able to get plenty of things accomplished. On the Sabot, we actually spot aerated a few greens. The small cores popped out and let some air in some of the more trafficked and stressed areas on greens 2 through 5. The cores were blown off and the greens were mowed like normal the next day. This method helps the bentgrass get through the summer better and has almost 0 impact on putting for the week.
On Monday the approaches and tees were topdressed with sand. The sand helps keep the surfaces firm and smooth. Once dry the sand was brushed down into the canopy.
We continue to work on the bumpy ride around the Sabot. Some depressions on the front nine were cut out on Monday and filled with hot asphalt mix from the plant up the road. The hot mix is a much better product than cold patch from Home Depot, not to mention significantly cheaper. Once plate tamped it looks nice and rides great.
Preparations for sprigging continue on the Manakin. All of the approaches that were filled with sand have now been cored out and filled back in with soil. As we got to some of the historically worst approaches to manage on 3 and 17, we found the deepest depths of sand. When sand is installed too deep, it has very little chance of holding enough water in a consistent manner so that turf can survive. The soil will provide adequate growing conditions for the new bermudagrass and ensure healthy turf for years to come.
With the approach project finishing up faster than expected, we are able to move on to a few bunker modifications next week. Architect Andrew Green was on site earlier in the week to solidify some recommendations to help improve the experience on the Manakin. Here on 15 fairway, the front of the bunker will be re-positioned so it is more visible from the tee. The first tongue that used to trap balls will be eliminated and the shot to the green will be much more fair. The first right fairway bunker on 17 will also see its middle tongue reduced. Behind 9 green the back right bunker will be reshaped and filled with soil. This will reduce routine maintenance for our staff and create a new roll off and walk on area that connects nicely to 10 tees. Look for plenty of pictures of the work next week.
On the turf health side of things our organic compost is going down on the expired turf. After our second herbicide application Monday we have moved on to preparing for the new turf. Over 400 cubic yards of compost will be applied to the Manakin over the next week or so.
Once the compost is applied we have started aerating and dragging in the rough. This is just the beginning of our prep for the sprigs. Creating extra holes and making sure the proper nutrients are available will be key to success!
Enjoy your weekend as much as Boomer will!