Looks like new but far from it

As the official start of spring is now behind us we are putting the finishing touches on our winter work for the year. As I mentioned in a previous post, each winter we work on making all the course accessories and equipment look like new again. The service on all the equipment includes a comprehensive wash, oil and filter changes, inspections of all belts, gaskets and tires, and all mower blades get sharpened. In addition, detailed records are kept on all pieces of equipment. These records track information such as the number of hours an item has been used and what parts need to be ordered for it. Based on this information we can know when to perform less routine tasks such as changing hydraulic hoses or bearings or seals. Once the equipment has been serviced, a fresh coat of polish is applied to get them looking shiny and new. Even with all the preventative maintenance we do, equipment can still break down during the season which is why we also keep an inventory of select parts to insure a quick turnaround after a breakdown. It is a testament to Dave, our equipment manager, that our equipment continues to look and operate so well even as many items are approaching or past its expected useful life. Speaking of Dave, April 1st will mark Dave's 40th year working at Blackhawk Country Club. I will have a more detailed story of Dave's history with the club in the May edition of the Divot.

The fairway mower seen in the photo below was purchased in 1999 but looks and runs very well for being 15 years old. The walking mower seen below was purchased in 1995 and continues to run great. Both of these pieces of equipment get used regularly and as do other items which are even older. Having reliable equipment is vital to providing great conditions and it is nice to know that even our older equipment is dependable.

 

Poplar removal by Wolfe

On Wednesday (2/19) Wolfe Tree Service came out to remove the large Poplar tree between number 6 mens tee and the restrooms. Because the tree was very large in size and located between the tee and restrooms, it was necessary to bring in an outside company to perform the removal. Wolfe has specialized equipment, such as the bucket truck seen below, and years of experience that allow them to safely remove the tree without damaging the restroom or the tee box.

The primary reason why this tree was chosen for removal is safety. The tree was in poor health and on the verge of being completely dead. Because of this, dead limbs could break off and pose a threat to golfers on the tee or using the restrooms. The removal of the Poplar eliminates that concern.

Not only did taking down this tree help protect members and staff, it also helped with turf health. First, the turf around the restrooms which gets a lot of traffic will now be able to get more light and will not have to compete with the tree for water and nutrients. Also, Poplar trees are notorious for being messy trees and this one was no exception. The Poplar made a mess of leaves and sticks on the tee and the surrounding area which was a nuisance for both golfers and the grounds staff.

The pictures and video below show how large the tree was and what goes into safely cutting it down.

Poplar by #6 being removed

after the tree is removed

Winter work

With snow completely covering the golf course and falling outside as I type this post, our winter work is well underway. We have begun the process of servicing our equipment and will continue to do so throughout the winter to ensure we get every piece of equipment checked. In addition to the equipment, course accessories have been getting some attention. Currently all the benches that go on the golf course were cleaned, sanded and received a fresh coat of stain to make them look like new again.

Greens covers

The grounds staff completed the installation of all five greens covers yesterday (11/21) and the timing could not have been any better. This is the third winter that #11 and #17 green will be covered, the second winter for #3 green, and this fall we added covers to #8 and #14.



Applying cover to #3 green Thursday (11/21)



Snow on the course the following morning (11/22)





In addition, the golf course will be closed to play this weekend and greens will lkely remain closed until spring.

November Update

The month of November has been a busy one for the grounds staff. So far we have accomplished a number of tasks in order to prepare for winter.

On Thursday (11/7) the grounds staff removed the large Ash tree located next to #3 mens tee. This tree was selected for removal for many reasons; first, being an Ash tree it was only a matter of time before it would become infested with Emerald Ash Borer. Second, the removal of this tree will help get more sun on #2 green, especially in the winter. Third, #3 tee would frequently dry out in that back corner so the removal of this tree should help with moisture management. In addition, Honey Locusts located behind #10 green and #11 green were removed as well. The removal of these trees should help increase light and air flow and promote healthier turf in the surrounding area.

Last Tuesday and Wednesday (11/12-13) the irrigation system was winterized as were the restrooms on the golf course. The irrigation system needs to be cleared of water using compressed air so the water does not freeze in the pipes over winter.

On Friday (11/15) snow mold protection was applied to greens, tees, and fairways. Snow mold is a winter disease caused by cold-loving fungal species. Snow mold is unique because it can attack the grass plant at low temperatures. If left untreated, this disease could have a devastating effect on these turf areas.

All of these tasks will help prepare the golf course for winter.