The uptick in rounds played since the start of the pandemic has continued through 2021 and into this winter. Reports from courses in Maryland and Virginia show upward of 900-1,000 rounds in December and the trend continued in January. If the weather cooperates, indications are that February won’t be any different.
This time of year always brings the question, what is the purpose of winter play? In other words, what are the goals for the course and what risk(s) are you willing to take? In the southern part of the region, there is usually an expectation of playing golf throughout the winter. This doesn’t mean the weather is warm or course conditions are in peak shape, but courses are snow-free and open.
Just because a course is free of snow though doesn’t mean there isn’t risk in playing. Playing on totally frozen soil carries less risk of damaging turf because the ground is solid, so injury from root shear is not a major concern. However, many courses from Philadelphia to Virginia Beach will find themselves with partially frozen soils at this time of year. Under these conditions, footsteps or vehicle traffic can cause the turf to shear away from its roots – resulting in damage that can take a significant amount of time to heal. If you have concerns about root shear, implementing temporary greens can prevent damage.
Courses farther north might be covered in snow and ice, which means they will be less focused on winter play and more concerned with plant health. With plenty of winter weather still ahead of us, superintendents may be wondering how the grass is holding up. If ice and/or snow cover has persisted for a few weeks, now is the time to sample for winter injury.
Winter golf is bonus golf. Scores cannot be posted for handicap purposes in most parts of the Northeast and courses are not groomed like they would be in summer. With that said, when the sun is shining and courses are open, golfers have certainly proved that they love the game and are willing to wear a few extra layers and get on the links. Superintendents need to be prepared to manage the impact of winter play so there aren’t lingering effects in the spring.
Northeast Region Agronomists:
Adam Moeller, director, Green Section Education – amoeller@usga.org
Darin Bevard, director, Championship Agronomy – dbevard@usga.org
Elliott Dowling, agronomist – edowling@usga.org
John Daniels, agronomist – jdaniels@usga.org