As we head into fall, many golf courses across the Southeast are racing to the finish line with renovations. It’s easy to start thinking ahead to opening day – fresh turf, sharp edges and the buzz of a busy course. But before the flagsticks go back in, there’s a narrow window of opportunity to tackle punch list items while the course is still closed.
Smooth Out Any Rough Spots
Even with proper planning and design, minor grading issues or heavy rain during grow-in can lead to bumps and low spots that interfere with surface drainage, turf health and mowing. Don’t assume these spots will smooth themselves out – they rarely do. Addressing surface irregularities now with hand topdressing, minor regrading and resodding will ensure that the course opens back up with smooth surfaces that are easier to maintain properly in the long run.
Level Irrigation Heads and Optimize Nozzle Packages
It’s common during construction and grow-in for irrigation heads to end up slightly off grade. Some heads settle too low, while others get bumped too high. Either way, heads that are not level with the surrounding turf cause problems for both water distribution and mowing. Take time now to inspect any heads in renovated areas and adjust as needed so they are level with the final turf grade.
At the same time, review your coverage. Ensure head-to-head spacing is appropriate and that sprinklers are throwing where you want them to. Grow-in is the best time to test the system under real conditions and make adjustments. Once the course opens, it will become more challenging to find the time and opportunity to address any issues.
Smooth Out Drain Inlets and Sod Tie-Ins
Drainage is only as good as the final grade around each inlet. If the inlet is too high, water will pond. If it is too low or the sod isn’t properly installed, erosion and turf failure can follow. Make sure every newly installed inlet has smooth grading around it and observe them after rain events to make sure they are functioning properly.
Every renovation wraps up with a punch list – those final details that ensure everything is truly ready for play. While items like washouts, tilted irrigation heads and high drain inlets may not stand out to golfers, they will affect the long-term health and playability of the course. Now is the time to give these issues the attention they deserve. Take full advantage of the open access, reduced pressure and flexibility that come with a closed course to get these essential tasks done right, before play resumes.
Southeast Region Agronomists:
Jordan Booth, Ph.D., senior director, USGA Course Consulting Service – jbooth@usga.org
Chris Hartwiger, director, Agronomy – chartwiger@usga.org
Chris Neff, agronomist – cneff@usga.org
Mitch Leininger, agronomist - mleininger@usga.org
Information on the USGA’s Course Consulting Service
Contact the Green Section Staff