Students are back in school and for most superintendents that means a reduction in their workforce. Therefore, it is not realistic to expect the same course setup tasks performed during the summer with a full crew to be continued in the fall with fewer employees. Maintenance priorities need to be adjusted as do golfer expectations. Often the maintenance focus is shifted to the center lines of play with out-of-play areas receiving less attention. However, all courses are not created equal and neither are the maintenance budgets to prepare them for play.
One seasonal task during fall is removing leaf debris. When it comes to prioritizing this work, begin by removing leaves from bunkers. The rules of golf provide relief from leaves on putting greens but not in hazards. Once the bunkers are cleared the leaves on greens, fairways and finally rough can be addressed. Work with the pro shop to post priorities for daily preparation of the course during the fall when there are fewer employees to complete daily tasks. Communicate what can and will be done to prepare playing surfaces rather than discussing what cannot be accomplished.
Finally, the long-term weather forecasts are predicting drier conditions for most of the North-Central region. This means good golf weather, but it also means that leaf drop may be more rapid and require intensified debris removal efforts. As stated in our last update, fall is a great time to play golf. An enjoyable time can be realized by all even with a necessary shift in maintenance priorities.
Source: Keith Happ khapp@usga.org
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