Tree removal during the offseason is a priority for many golf courses that are trying to improve growing environments and playability, reveal views and address trees that are declining. The debris generated by tree removal often takes up valuable space in the dump site or must be hauled away, which can be costly and time consuming. An alternative to chipping limbs and hauling logs off-site is the AirBurner.
Think of an AirBurner as a dumpster-sized fire pit that burns virtually smoke-free in a contained environment. This piece of equipment can turn limbs and large logs into a pile of ashes that can be disposed of in the dump site or top-dressed into naturalized areas. These ashes are significantly less material than the stacks of logs and piles of wood chips that remain after using a chipper.
If managing the debris generated by tree removal is a challenge at your facility, an AirBurner may be a viable alternative. Make sure to check with local authorities to ensure there are no regulations against using this piece of equipment and that you time any burning in accordance with local rules. If you want to discuss anything related to tree management at your course, please reach out to your regional USGA agronomist.
Central Region Agronomists:
Zach Nicoludis, regional director – znicoludis@usga.org
Paul Jacobs, agronomist – pjacobs@usga.org