Below is a letter sent to all members regarding our current weather situation. We went from 100 degree, drought conditions to rainforest type conditions. The situation should not be taken lightly, this is serious. Please read below.
Attention
Hartefeld Members
Prior to July 10th, we went 43 days with only .88 inches of rain. In the last 4 days we have
received 4.25 inches of rain. Along with the rain, the humidity has continued to remain extremely high
and we are now forecasted to begin our 5th heat wave of the year today! Temperatures are forecasted
in the 90ʼs for the next 5 days and with the saturated conditions at Hartefeld, this WILL cause turf loss if
corrective actions are not taken immediately.
Over the last 2 days algae and anaerobic conditions began to build in our greens, they simple
canʼt get any oxygen in them. Yesterday afternoon we received yet more rain and upon arriving to work
early this morning, our situation has worsened. Just as we took corrective action during the spell of 100
plus degree days to keep our course in excellent condition, we must immediately take corrective action
now or we will see significant turf issues. After my evaluation and consultation with the USGA
agronomist this morning, the following is what we are initiating, effective immediately:
- All the greens this morning are receiving a solid tine (bayonet tine) aeration. We need to
release the toxic sulfide gases and allow oxygen to begin moving into the soil. This process
is the most vital of all.
- Several greens on the course are now being handmowed to assist in compaction and
compression issues. The use of a triplex with the greens as wet as they are will create
scalping.
- Oxygen is the most vital element as this time. To keep from compressing the oxygen out of
the greens soil profile, rolling will be suspended until we see the greens dry a bit. I anticipate
the greens being rolled tomorrow and through the weekend.
- We will be applying Zinc to the greens tomorrow. Zinc helps reduce the build-up of surface
algae on the greens. We are seeing algae form on many of the greens very quickly with the
humidity levels so hight. When algae forms on the surface, it inhibits oxygen from moving to
the plant and soil profile. It is the equivalent of a person putting a plastic bag over their head.
As with the weather we faced 1 week ago, our Agronomy programs are strong and will
help us through this time of difficult environmental stresses. For additional updates and
information please look to the Course Maintenance Blog - www.greensuper.blogspot.com
The entire Hartefeld Management and Agronomy team would like to thank you for
your cooperating during these difficult times.
William Brown, CGCS
Superintendent Hartefeld National
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