CONNECTICUT ASSOCIATION OF GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS J p CONNECTICUT CLIPPINGS Volume 29, No. 1 February, 1995 1994 Superintendent of the Year Steve Rackliffe, CGCS By Jeffrey F. Rogers President’s Message Peter R. Pierson CAGCS President Happy new year to all members of CAGCS. This year has arrived with little or no snow, above normal tem­ peratures and many golfers thinking that New England is a 12-month golf climate. During mild periods of the winter months, golf turf can have both long and short term detramental effects from golfer traffic. Let’s hope that reasonable thinking can prevail at this time of the year so golf turf does not start out “behind schedule” when Spring arrives in early April. CAGCS held a very successful Win­ ter Seminar on January 10th. The weather was in direct opposite from 1994 when we had to contend with snow and ice. Mike Wallace, CGCS, our 1994 Education Chairperson, and Will Heintz, Met GCSA Education Chairperson, put together a great pro­ gram. All CAGCS members can be very proud of the job Mike has done for many years as a CAGCS officer and director. CAGCS is enthusiasti­ cally supporting Mike’s candidacy for Director of GCSAA. The election will be held at the 1995 GCSAA Con- (continued on page 3) The Superintendent of the Year Award, bestowed on the recipient by his peers, has become the most coveted award of our association. This year, I received a 72% return, which is a good re­ sponse. Twenty-eight superintendents re­ ceived votes in this year’s balloting. This year’s recipient won by a large margin. This year’s award winner received an As­ sociate in Science Turf Management degree in 1977. He also received a Bachelor of Science in Plant and Soil Sci­ ences in 1980. He fi­ nalized his formal edu­ cation in 1982 when he received his Master of Science degree. All of his degrees are from the University of Massachusetts. intendent at Tumble Brook Country Club in Bloomfield, CT. In 1982, he accepted the superintendent position at the Willimantic Country Club. After 12 years, he is still going strong. He has been an ac- tive member of CAGCS since 1978 and has served on the Board of Directors as Membership Chair­ person, Secretary, Vice President, and served our association as President in 1992. Steve has also overseen the tedious job of our last two CAGCS surveys. This year’s recipi­ ent, Steve Rackliffe, CGCS, has been de­ voted to the better­ ment of the associa­ He started his career working on the crew at Shuttle Meadow CC under Bob Silva and thereafter, as assistant super­ “leader”. tion and the profession. He is the true meaning of the word February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 2 IF YOU WERE A TREE.... WHO WOULD YOU TRUST? Over 75 Years of Excellence in Tree Care Golf Course Programs Better than PAR OUR GOAL IS TO PRESERVE YOUR TREES! k ALPINE the CAtt of TREES rziUHNB SINCE 1919 Norwalk - 847-1855 Westport - 222-5595 Greenwich - 661-8014 Darien - 655-8008 A note of thanks by Steve Rackliffe, CGCS I would like to take this opportunity to tell the membership of CAGCS how honored I feel to have been chosen as this year’s re­ cipient of the Superintendent of the Year Award. When my name was announced at this year’s January seminar, I was shocked and at a loss for words when I stood behind the podium and addressed the membership. I have since had time to reflect. When I was a student at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, CAGCS awarded me a scholarship. After Stockbridge, I decided to continue my education at the University of Massachusetts working on my Masters Degree. Once again, superintendents or­ ganizations around the Northeast supported Dr. Joe Troll’s turf- grass conference and research projects. It was support like this that helped me (as well as others) and afforded me the opportunity to continue my education. I always felt I wanted to give something back to CAGCS which gave so much to me. I tried giving back by serving on committees and holding various offices of our association so I could help our organization grow. A funny thing happened, while I thought I was giving, I was still receiving. I was meeting peo­ ple and colleagues and have become great friends and confidants. This past January 10th, I received once again. To be presented this awarded from CAGCS, by one of my best friends — my brother, Dan - is something I will always treasure. I am truly honored. Sincerely, Steve CAGCS Board of Directors President & PPUC Rep. PETER R. PIERSON Pequabuck Golf Club Education BRIAN SKELLY Old Lyme Country Club S & R JEFFREY F. ROGERS Robert Baker Companies Vice President PHILIP NEATON Black Hall Club Secretary JOHN NAPIERACZ, CGCS Stanley Golf Course Treasurer HEATHER L. GARVIN Canton Golf Course Immediate Past President JOHN F. STREETER,CGCS Woodbridge Country Club Golf Co-Chairpersons ANTHONY GROSSO Pautipaug Country Club ~and~ JOHN MOTYCKA Skungamaug River Golf Club Membership SCOTT D. GENNINGS, CGCS Wallingford Country Club Public Relations GREG STENT Wampanoag Country Club Social & Welfare JUD W. SMITH Orange Hills Country Club Commercial Rep. to Board JEFFREY F. ROGERS Robert Baker Companies CAGCS Office P. O. Box 3678 Woodbridge, CT 06525 Telephone & Fax Nos. (203) 387-0810 Connecticut Clippings is an official publication of the Connecticut Association of Golf Course Superintendents. Newsletter Editor John F. Streeter, CGCS Committee Anthony Grosso Pautipaug Country Club ~and~ Thomas Watroba Suffield Country Club Photos David Basconi February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 3 -------- President’s Message ______ (continued from page 1) vention in San Francisco. CAGCS, along with other local chap­ ters, is going to host a hospitality room at the San Francisco Marriott, Headquar­ ters hotel, on Friday, February 24th, and all CAGCS members are urged to par­ ticipate. Congratulations to Steve Rackliffe, CGCS, from the Board of Directors and the entire membership as the 12th recip­ ient of the Superintendent of the Year Award The Board of Directors has elected Frank Lamphier, Aspetuck Valley Country Club, our CAGCS Team Cap­ tain. Frank has long been playing in both GCSAA and CAGCS competi­ tions, and the GCSAA Net Team trophy is given annually in his honor. Frank will determine the CAGCS members representing our association in the GCSAA team competition at the 1995 tournament. He will also assist the Golf Committee in selecting and recruit­ ing for other CAGCS competitions. CAGCS again hosted a GCSAA sem­ inar on January 19 & 20, 1995 at the Raddison Hotel in Cromwell. The hot topic, Golf Course Restoration, Reno­ vation & Construction Projects sold out in early December. The Board of Direc­ tors is committed to bringing GCSAA educational seminars to Connecticut on a regular basis. We would like to see as many CAGCS members take advan­ tage of these offerings in our home state. We have already requested a GCSAA seminar for January, 1996 and should be hearing soon what topic has been selected and which dates are re­ served. I would like to thank our Executive Secretary, Pauline Streeter, for serving as our seminar monitor. This is a new idea offered by GCSAA to hosting chap­ ters, in lieu of them sending a represen­ tative. With CAGCS monitoring the seminar, GCSAA will donate the sum of $600 to our Scholarship & Research Fund. This is the approximate amount it would have cost GCSAA if they had in fact sent a monitor. I would like all members to join with the Board of Directors and keep up your support of our association. The Board needs the help of the membership to make our association stronger. It is not too soon to think about offer­ ing your club for a meeting site for 1996. We are finding that clubs are put­ ting club calendars together earlier and earlier every year. So, if you are inter­ ested in hosting a meeting, contact the association office or Brian Skelly, our Education Chairperson, or any member of the Board. Spring will be here before we know it, and the members of CAGCS will be hard at work preparing their courses for the 1995 golfing season. Good luck to everyone! Digging divots and making (but re­ pairing) ball marks, I remain Peter Pierson, President, CAGCS Consistently High Quality Competitive Prices Prompt Delivery CONNECTICUT MULCH DISTRIBUTORS, INC. KEN LINDELAND WOOD CHIPS - BARK - LANDSCAPE TIES Business Address 1300 East St. Suffield, CT. 06078 Mailing Address 1515 North Stone St. W. Suffield, CT. 06093 Telephone (203) 623-2987 Fax 292-1047 METRO MILORGANITE, INC. For a HEALTHY ADVANTAGE over SEASONAL PROBLEMS WE OFFER a WINNING LINE UP: Milorganite Emerald Isle, Ltd. • Pana Sea • Pana Sea Plus • SAND-AID Country Club • FERTILIZERS • TOP DRESSINGS • BIOSTIMULANTS • SEED • PESTICIDES • GOLF COURSE ACCESSORIES Rick Apgar Scott Apgar Joe Stahl Metro Milorganite Inc. DEPEND ON US FOR FOUR SEASON SOLUTIONS (914) 666-3171 Fax (914) 666-9183 365 Adams Street, Bedford Hills, NY 10507 Tiuufl5f (800) 243-75821 CHOICE OF BENTGRASSES - Maintained at ^32” and 1/4” - Penncross •Providence •Pennlinks 3-Way Fairway Blend Pallets or Big Rolls Washing Service Available High Fine Fescue Mix Versatile Blue-Fescue-Rye Mix Low-Cut Blue-Rye Available Farm Inspection Welcomed Connecticut Clippings Ice Alert Page 4 While we have ejoyed one of the mildest winters in many years, I am sure we are yet to experience our fair share of snow, ice and cold weather. The following article published in the USGA Green Section Northeast News in March, 1994, and written by David A. Oatis, Director, and James E. Skorulski, Agronomist, may prove to benefit all of us before the winter is over. They have given us permission to reprint their article. What does the ice do? Will grass be lost? How long does ice have to be on the turf to cause damage? Should it be removed? These are common ques­ tions. The concern is well warranted, as damage from ice is a regular occurrence in more northerly portions of the Northeastern Region. Although not common, ice has been known to cause significant damage further south. As a review, let’s examine what is believed to occur under ice, practices which can help reduce injury, and steps which can be taken to initiate recovery. Above all else, golfers should be apprised of the situation and warned that winter damage is a possibility. Ice injury is a very complex issue that is not fully understood. There are two theories about how damage occurs. The first hypothesizes that a solid ice cover prevents gas exchange around the plants. Toxic concentrations of gases then may accumulate to damage the turf. Cyanide gas was found damaging turf under ice conditions in a Canadian study. This information has led to the recommendation to remove ice if it was been in place for 50-60 consecutive days. Creeping and velvet bentgrass are thought to persist for even longer time periods under solid ice covers. The second type of injury, which seems to be more common, involves plant hydration followed by a rapid drop in temperature. The water within the hydrated plant freezes and expands, causing damage to the cell walls. This form of injury is called crown hydration injury and is thought to be responsible for much of the Poa annua damage oc­ curring in Northern New York State, the New England states and Canada. Dr. John Roberts from the University of New Hampshire has completed some very good field work and is well versed in this type of injury. His article in Golf Course Management, October 1993, explains and describes the injury and is recommended reading. Poa annua and perennial ryegrass are both highly susceptible to damage from ice cover. It is thought that crown hy­ dration injury can also damage creeping bentgrass if hydration occurs and the temperature falls drastically, but this is not common. Turf which is not com­ pletely hardened-off or which has begun to break domancy is also more suscept­ ible. Often, a continuous ice cover alone is not the primary concern. It is the events which lead to the ice cover or conditions during periods of thaw that determine the turf s fate. (Continued on page 8) The Cardinals “Serving All Your Maintenance Needs with Personalized Service” • Specializing in Custom Orders • Traveling Showroom for Easy Ordering • Custom Blend Grass Seed & Fertilizer • Full line of Pesticides • Tee & Green Accessories • First Aid & Safety Supplies John E. 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RANSOMES E-PLEX ALL - ELECTRIC GREENS MOWER TheE-Plex is the turf industry’s only electric greens mower, featuring quiet and pollution free operation, exceptional quality of cut, no hydraulic fluid, large capacity quick-mount grass catchers, ability to control clip rate by ground speed, excellent hill-climbing capabilities, large tires for low ground pressure. A powerful 48-volt electric motor gives the operator a mowing capacity of 9 to 18 greens, depending upon application and terrain. SERVICING NEW ENGLAND WITH FINE TURF MAINTENANCE EQUIPMENT SINCE 1932 Connecticut Clippings Page 6 Around the CONNECTICUT ASSOCIATION OF GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTSJ Association Tri State Research Foundation Hospitality suite in San Francisco By now, all of our Class A and C members should have received the first edition of the Tri State Research Foundation newsletter, Foundation News. Along with the newsletter is a request for a $150 contribution to help support our Tri State efforts. We urge all of you to find $150 somewhere in that big budget and for­ ward it to this worthy cause. Anyone seeking more information on the Foundation is urged to call John F. Streeter, CGCS, or Peter Pierson, Tri State reps, from CT. Included with this issue is a survey from Dr. Noel Jackson. He has just received a $60,000 grant from the Tri State for research work. This survey is very important in helping him find results. We urge all of you to please fill it out and return it to Dr. Jackson as soon as possible. The CT Association will co-host, along with the Met, NJ, Mid-Atlantic, RI, and Hudson Valley Associations, another hospitality suite at this year's annual GCSAA convention. The suite will be held at the San Francisco Marriott on Friday, Febru­ ary 24th, from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Golden Gate Room. Any member wishing to attend must present either the invitation or your 1995 CAGCS membership card. Invitations can be obtained at the convention by seeing John Streeter, Tom Watroba, Peter Pierson, or Mike Wallace. Mass Turf Conference The annual Mass Turf Conference and Industrial Show will again be held at the Civi Center in Springfield, MA, on March 6th, 7th and 8th. You must regis­ ter to be admitted to either the educational program or the Indus­ trial show. For more informa­ tion contact Lonnie Troll, Executive Secre­ tary, at 413/549- 5295. Welcome New Members Ed Ball - Class C Champion Athletic Turf William Blount - Class B H. B. Brownson Country Club Christopher Cowan - Class C Agriturf, Inc. Thomas DeGrandi - Class B TPC of River Highlands Thomas DeVaux - Class B Race Brook Country Club John Dyckman - Class C Alpine, the Care of Trees, Inc. Millane Nurseries Richard Negralle - Class B Clinton Country Club Anthony Ranaldi - Class B Hop Meadow Country Club Andrew Streeter - Class B Woodbridge Country Club Kristian Waagen - Class B The Patterson Club ’Par for the Course' moves to ESPN. "Par for the course", GCSAA’s na­ tional cable television program, moved to ESPN beginning January 1, 1995. The 1995 schedule includes 19 Sunday dates and 11 Thursday/Friday dates. GCSAA will also produce a series of short feature segments that will ap­ pear during PGA Tour and Senior PGA Tour events on ESPN. These segments will highlight issues and trends in golf course management in an entertaining way. So, pass the word and tune in! February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 7 ——— From the editor ——-----— John F. Streeter, CGCS This is the continuing saga of the Softspike issue. For those of you who read the November, 1994, issue of the Clippings, you would have realized that, as Editor, I was looking for some input on this subject from some of our readers. As I indicated, I would like to begin a superintendents'forum which would be published in each issue of the Clip­ pings. The first subject I wish to address is the subject on Softspikes. I am sure, by now, most of you must have read some information somewhere about these new turf-saving spikes. I, per­ sonally, believe that this subject will not die. At the time of this writing, there happens to be a few more companies getting into the game of manufacturing January Seminar The CAGCS annual Winter Seminar was held on January 10th at the Ramda Inn in Cromwell, CT. We had 120 in attendance. Mike Wallace, 1994 Edu­ cation Chairman, put together a most interesting slate of speakers for this softspikes. Foot Joy and Etonic, two of the biggest manufacturers of golf shoes, have now signed an exclusive contract with the softspike people to make these spikes available on their golf shoes. So, as you see, if you have been doing some reading this winter, every­ body is starting to get into the game. I was a little displeased that no one com­ municated any thoughts, whether posi­ tive or negative, on this subject. Learning from each other is one of the most important educational tools that we, as superintendents, have avail­ able to us. The superintendents forum is an excellent place for us to share some of our ideas and experiences, whether good or bad. This softspike is­ sue is one that I thought would spur (continued on page 10) year’s seminar. This year's program was accredited for recertification credits for CT Pesti­ cide license holders and also by GCSAA for certified superintendents. Dr. Bruce Clark from Rutgers updat­ ed us with his summer patch research. Mr. Edward Connors, III from Gol- forms gave an interest­ ing review on con­ struction and renova­ tion on golf courses with using comput­ ers. Also on the agenda was Cheryl Craft from Cornell Univer­ sity, (pictured below right with Scott Ram­ say, our afternoon session chairperson) reviewing the advanc­ es of biological con­ trol of turfgrass dis­ eases. Mr. Ron Smith from Sports Club Management Powered rotary brush and thatcher attachments for grain control and healthy turf, non-floating head design for true cutting heights, and dual powered drive rollers for straight cuts make this unit the premier walk-behind greensmower. WESCO FORD TRACTORS 27 Broad Street Norwalk, Conn. 06851 203-847-2496 presented a very informative presenta­ tion concerning OS HA and Right to Know Act. (Pictured below left are Peter Pierson, Pequabuck Golf Club, and his assistant, Bob Douglas.) Presentation of the Superintendent of the Year Award to Steve Rackliffe highlighted the day. February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 8 - Ice Alert (continued from page 4) - Who should be concerned? Those who maintain high popula­ tions of Poa annua on greens are at highest risk, especially if surface and internal drainage are poor. Poorly drained fairways and tees with high populations of Poa annua or perennial ryegrass are also at risk. Should existing snow and ice be removed? This a difficult call. Removing ice which directly covers the turf for 50-60 days is recommended. Snow and ice re­ moval is also a good idea in late winter as the spring thaw nears. The snow can be removed from the frozen greens with a snow blower or plow and the ice layer exposed, but do not pile the snow where it will inter­ fere with natural surface drainage from the green. Mechanically removing the ice with the aid of a conventional aeri­ fier (equipped with solid tines), Verti- Drain machine or Aerway machine might also be effective. Bob Vavrek, Agronomist from the Great Lakes Re­ gion, described a successful ice removal program using the Cushman GA-30 machine. The key to success is to re­ move the ice in small increments of .5” so as not to damage the equipment. This type of removal is actually more successful when the ice is very cold and thus more brittle. Darkening agents such as Milorga­ nite or charcoal can also be used to accelerate melting and ease removal during periods of sun and warm temper­ atures. However, care must be taken to remove the water which results from the melting process, especially where surface drainage is poor. The water, if allowed to puddle on the surface, will be absorbed by the plants, leaving them more susceptible to damage should the temperatures drop again. Small trenches can be installed to facilitate water movement from the low-lying areas to prevent the hydra­ tion. An old chain saw or an asphalt saw is an effective tool for this pur­ pose. Has my turf already suffered damage? Removing existing ice is no guaran­ tee that damage has not already oc­ curred. The turf may appear green and healthy after the snow and ice are re­ moved and the damage may not become apparent until growing weather arrives. Hence, it is a good idea to remove a plug from a green which has been ice covered and bring it inside to resume growth. This should provide a fairly good indication of whether injury has occured up to this point. (continued on page 9) 0 Tee & Green & In Between Whether your challenge is a dead­ line, a tee, a green, a fairway, a rough, or a bunker surround, we have a blend that fits your needs. We understand the variety of problems you face because we have spent a great deal of time listening to golf course superintendents. As a result, Tee & Green Sod offers the most complete product line available to the golf course industry- even a four-foot wide washed roll! Give us a call for information about our selection of products, and our unique harvesting and washing techniques. •Bentgrass •Bluegrass •Washed sod •Bluegrass-Ryegrass •Bluegrass-Fine Fescue QREEH SOD -INCORPORATED - 401/789-8177 • 401/789-3895 (fax) • PO Box 418, Exeter, RI 02822 February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 9 Ice Alert (continued from page 8) If damage is evident, or you are con­ cerned about potential damage, then it is a good idea to make the Green Com­ mittee and members fully aware of what might occur in Spring. Obtain as much information as possible concern­ ing ice related injury and discuss the re­ covery programs and the corresponding downtime which may be required. It is best to avoid surprises, especially when they may involve the use of temporary greens and regrassing operations. It is also a good idea to update lists of seed and sod suppliers as products may be in high demand if widespread damage oc­ curs. Finally, it is recommended to re­ view the article “Promoting Recovery from Winter Injury” Green Section Record, January 1979, as it provides an excellent review of recovery procedures. Injury from ice is a very complex problem, with many variables that are not yet completely understood. Some covering techniques seem to be effec­ tive for areas which suffer ice damage on a regular basis. Promoting bent- grass, improving surface and internal drainage, eliminating shade conditions and hardening the turf off properly in the fall will all help reduce the proba­ bility of ice related injury. Taking steps to prevent prolonged ice cover and plant hydration will also better your chances. Unfortunately, damage is difficult to predict and can occur even when every precaution is taken. The following steps might be considered at this time to reduce potential injury. They include: • Remove large snow accumulations to within 2 - 3” of the surface. This will prevent excessive water accumula­ tions which could hydrate the plant and lead to ice damage. This is especially appropriate immediately before a warm­ ing trend. • Solid ice layers in place for more than 60 days should also be removed either mechanically or with the use of a darkening agent. • Pull a plug from an ice covered green and bring it inside to check for mortality. • Make your green chairman and committee fully aware of the potential for injury and make early preparations for a recovery program. Tips from the USGA December 31, 1999 - A 21st Century Fairy Tale by Paul Vermeulen, USGA Agronomist Today, December 31,1999,1 am reminded of some significant achieve­ ments of the last 100 years. The inven­ tion of the reel mower in the early 1900s, the discovery of 2,4-D by Fanny F. Davis in the mid 1940s, and, of course, the banning of steel spikes in the late 1990s. While some achievements were readily embraced because their value was tangible to superintendents across the country, the banning of steel spikes was an exception. It started as a small idea and slowly grabbed the American golfer’s attention. In the early 1980s William “Bill” Bengeyfield, Chairman of the USGA’s Turfgrass Research Committee, contacted the office of Dr. Gibeault at the University of Califor­ nia, Riverside. Under Dr. Gibeault’s guidance, an indepth study of the effects of various golf shoes on putting greens was conducted. The results of the golf shoe study were irrefutable. Golf shoes equipped with steel spikes literally cut the turf apart and compacted the soil. Further­ more, they “significantly” disrupt put­ ting quality. Based on these results, how could the American golfer fail to immediately embrace spikeless golf shoes? When the shoe study was conducted, it was done with shoes designed with spikeless soles. Two problems arose. First, the spikeless, sole designs wore PARTAC TOP-DRESSING GOLF COURSE ((( HEAT TREATED AMERICA'S PREMIUM TOP-DRESSINGS 1YMIT CEOTEXTILES S. TURF BLANKETS U.S. GOLF HOLE \\\ TARGETS )) AND MUCH MORE! /// 800-247-2326 DISTRIBUTED IN CT BY: JAMES CARRIERE & SONS 914-937-2136 VALLEY FARMS SUPPLY 203-651-8555 quickly, and were both difficult and ex­ pensive to replace. Second, many golfers without a clear definition of a spikeless golf shoe were inadvertently sold athletic shoes for Astroturf sport fields. Unlike spikeless golf shoes that did little or no damage to putting greens, the Astroturf athletic shoes did unbelieveable damage. As a consequence of this later problem, pla­ toon discipline was evoked. All shoes except traditional steel spiked golf shoes, were banned on most golf courses. From the nationwide ban of spike­ less shoes in the early 1980s, the re­ sults of Dr. Gibeault’s study were almost forgotten. In 1991, however, an ingenious inventor, whose name is not easily remembered, developed a soft, rubber spike. This spike could be used to retrofit all brands of steel spiked golf shoes. Unfortunately, it still took three years before this invention, known today as Softspike, gave new life to the game of golf. In 1994, the idea of banning steel (continued on page 10) February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 10 COPS From the Editor (continued from page 7) some interest. As it has not to this date, I would like to include my experiences, along with a experiences from a few of my fellow coi­ nages who I have solicited, concerning the promotion of softspikes at our respective clubs. My good friend and colleague, Les Kennedy, Jr., CGCS, superin­ tendent at Oak Lane Country Club, wore the softspikes while play­ ing at Hilton Head this past November. "I totally forgot that I had them on my shoes until I was walking on a cart path and couldn t hear that familiar clicking noise" says Les. Thereafter he surprised me with a full set of softspikes for Christmas. At my club, after attending a Green Committee meeting and sub­ sequently a Board meeting, I have already begun my campaign on the softspike issue. My approach contained aspects that I knew would be related to my particular circumstances - No. 1 - Being Woodbridge Country Club, built before WWII, has greens that are very small in size. The architect had in mind at that time of sup­ porting somewhere around 4,000 to 5,000 rounds per year. As you all know, golf has increased dramatically in the last 15 to 20 years. (continued next page) A 21st Century Fairy Tale (continued from page 9) spikes started grabbing hold. At the time, I remember being called an idealist for wearing Softspikes during my travels and encouraging their use. I was told over and over by superintendents, golf profes­ sionals, and club managers, that until PGA Tour players took off their steel spikes, the American golfer would never take note. They were right. It was not until Muirfield Village Golf Course in Ohio, home of Jack Nicklaus, instituted a steel spike ban that the tide started turning. The ban at Muirfield Village finally got the American golfer’s attention. When golfers from Ohio returned to their winter retreats in the sunny Southwest, they brought with them “a new invention” for eliminating spike marks on greens. From Ohio and then the Southwest, the use of Softspikes gradually spread across the entire United States. Unbelievably, it was not until this year, when the United States Open returned to Pebble Beach Golf Links, that a major champion­ ship was hosted under a steel spike ban to preserve putting quality. It is hard to even imagine that major tournaments before 1999 could be won by a player whose putt was deflected into the hole by a spike mark left by a competittor. (Please note that the USGA does not officially endorse the sale of products by for-profit organizations. This agronomist, however, is an idealist who, as a golfer, is disgusted with greens that are torn apart by the time he gets to the course after work.) Gain central control of any existing controllers, regardless of make or manufacturer. Each COPS-Universal radio field unit has up to 42 stations per field unit. Ideal for retro-fitting parks, median strips, school grounds, and golf courses. COPS-Universal lets you change any field controller into a field satellite and manage your entire system from a central PC. COPS- Universal offers: • Communication by repeating or direct radio. (No new controllers or communication wire.) • Unlimited programs, unlimited start and run times to meet all your water management needs. • Freedom to use valves as you choose, regardless of hard-wiring constraints. For a personal demonstration, contact: Art deAtienza or J. Anderson Main Office: 243 Woodmont Road • P.O. Box 3049 • Milford CT 06460 • (203) 878-0658 IBI P.I.E. SUPPLY CO. I«pipe&irrigation ISiRlIllEQUIPMENT SUPPLY COMPANY . DUCKner Sterilized Dressing Top 1-800-899-SOIL (7645) FAX (301) 335-0164 Our top dressing is formulated especially for your area to specifications recommended by leading universities and testing laboratories. EXCLUSIVE! All materials are thoroughly mixed and sterilized by indirect heat in our special process. The sand particles are actually coated with a mixture of top soil and peat humus for a completely homogenous mixture that will not separate during handling and spreading. Computerized blending of soil mixtures for a superior growing medium. Green and tee construction materials and mixes conforming to specifications are available. Custom on-site soil blending and testing with a portable computerized blender to meet your speci­ fications are available. February, 1995 Connecticut Clippings Page 11 "What better way to cut down on the wear and tear of greens than to ban those metal spikes. It makes sense, doesn't it?" John F. Streeter, CGCS Woodbridge Country Club Most of us who have small greens are now receiving two to three times the traffic than they were originally de­ signed for. What better way to cut down on the wear and tear of greens than to ban those metal spikes. It makes sense, doesn't it? The species of grass which you are growing, whether it be poa, poa/bent, or in my case Velvet bent, may also prove to be a mitigating factor. In my situation, as I explained to my club, our Velvet bentgbrass is not the most prolific healer from traffic, especially spikes. What better medicine to pre­ serve our beatiful Velvet bent than in­ stituting a softspike program? At my club, as with any club, drastic changes come slowly. But surely, if you persist, the old saying goes,"You must walk before you run." At my particular club this adage is very appro­ priate. What I have suggested is that at the very least, we do a softspike day. We decided that by doing a softspike day in conjunction with an ABCD tourna­ ment where we have all different types of players, only members, a shot-gun start, we thought this would be the way to go. Also, along with doing a softspike day, I have requested that we make these new spikes available for purchase at our club. Making them available for purchase along with timely articles to your members and articles at the softspike purchase center, hopefully will be advantageous in speeding up the total integration of softspikes at the Woodbridge Country Club. At this present time, the Board of Governors, is still chewing on my suggestions. Let me warn you...You may very well be the only proponent from the club staff selling this idea! This game being strong in tradition, subsequently is difficult to change. These turf-saving spikes are not going to go away even though we have nega­ tive and nonsupport dialogue from our PGA constituents. I have heard golf pros say, "They would be great for the greens, but there are too many other drawbacks." They are not willing to try and deal with the issue. The superintendent is going to have to be the proponent behind this change. I urge all of you to gather as much information about these softspikes as possible and make a pres­ entation to your club. FYI... the January issue of Golf Course Management has published an excellent article which would help you in your presentation. I have also taken the liberty to include a little softspike fairy tale (see page 9) for your reading. The deadline for the next issue is April 15th. The Clippings staff will be soliciting your ideas for the next is­ sue, and I am wholeheartedly looking forward to your responses. Presently, the CC of Darien, Tim O'Neill, CGCS, superintendent, is im­ plementing a softspike only policy be­ ginning April, 1995. Also on the list are a host of some of the most prestig­ ious clubs in the country that have gone to the softspike only. I hope that the Clippings will be publishing a list of softspike users in our coming issues. Call or fax your comments (203) 387-0810 CAGCS Upcoming Events Experimental vaccine... Lyme disease March 20, 1995 CAGCS monthly meeting Hunter Golf Club April 18, 1995 CAGCS monthly meeting Whitney Farms Golf Course May TBA CAGCS monthly meeting Hartford Golf Club The Lyme Disease Research Center at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown, CT, is again conducting a study of an experimental vaccine. Participants must be between the ages of 15 and 70 and in generally good health. Sites are located across the state in­ cluding Middlesex Hospital. If you are interested in participating, call (800/884-4955) Lisa Bruno, RN Study Coordinator, will provide more details at our March meeting. CAGCS thanks these patrons for their continued support of our Association A-OK Turf Equipment Articulator Dealer Coventry, RI 02816 Michael D. Comicelli (401) 826-2584 AgrEvo USA Company 2711 Centerville Road Wilmington, DE 19808 David J. Sylvester (203) 828-8905 ALPINE, the CARE of TREES Excellence in Tree Care Ridgefield (431-4100) Westport (222-5595) Norwalk (847-1855) Greenwich (661-8014) Darien (655-8008) Anderson Turf Irrigation, Inc. 5 Cronk Rd., P. O. Box 7036 Plainville, CT 06062 Jesse J. Anderson, Jr. (203) 747-9911 Atlantic Irrig. Specialties/ Supplies 70 Research Drive Stamford, CT 06906 Tim Marcoux (800) 886-4774 Bruedan Corp, of Connecticut GOLF, TURF & UTILITY VEHICLES E-Z-GO & YAMAHA Scott O. Lowe ~ Frank Savakis (800) 773-6740 Cadwell & Jones, Inc. P. O. Box G, Buckland Station Manchester, CT 06040 John Schuller (203) 643-0644 A1 LaPrise (401) 438-5000 The Cardinals, Inc. Unionville, CT 06085 166 River Road John Callahan (203) 673-3699 The Chas. C. Hart Seed Co. P.O. Box 9169, 304 Main Street Wethersfield, CT 06129-0169 Roy Sibley ~ Ron Holcomb (203)529-2537 & (800)326-HART D & S Floratine Products, Nova Tee Flymo, Douglas Rollers, Trion Lifts Dave Basconi (203) 250-TURF Eastern Land Management, Inc. Golf Course Construction/Renovation Shelton, CT 06484 Bruce T. Moore, Sr. (203)924-7272 & (800)926-GREEN Egypt Farms, Inc. White Marsh, MD 21162 Ray Bowman ~ Dean Snyder P. O. Box 2223 (800) 899-7645 R. F. Morse & Son, Inc. West Wareham, MA 02576 ParEx - KPower - Vertidrain Carl Wallace (508) 295-1553 Glenmore Landscape Service 98 Hack Green Road Pound Ridge, NY 10576 Glenn S. Moore (914) 764-4348 Golf Cart Services, Inc. 275 Wells Street, P.O. Box 327 Greenfield, MA 01302 Jim Bernier (413) 772-0955 Greenacres Company Irrigation Contractor Redding, CT Dave Pijnenburg (203) 938-8618 GridTech 294 Valley Rd., Middletown, RI Soil Improvement-Canadian Geese Control Charlie Baskin (401) 849-7920 FAX (401) 849-7937 James Carriere & Sons, Inc. 7 Cottage St., Port Chester, NY 10573 Trap Sand - Partac Topdressing-Drainage Stone Bill Carriere (914) 937-2136 Lesco, Inc. 20005 Lake Road Rocky River, OH 44116 Mike Donahue (800) 321-5325 FAX (800) 673-3030 Lofts Seed Company 68 White Cedar Drive Madison, CT 06443 Paul Bednarczyk (203) 421-4641 & (800) 708-8873 Metro Milorganite, Inc. 365 Adams Street Bedford Hills, NY 10507 Joe Stahl ~ Scott Apgar (914) 666-3171 or (203) 321-0678 Partac Golf Couise Top-Dressing Great Meadows, NJ 07838 (800) 247-2326 (908) 637-4191 Bill Carriere (914) 937-2136 Joe Bidwell (203) 651-8555 Pro-Lawn Products, Inc. 102 Conklin Road Stafford Springs, CT 06076 Mike Dukette (203) 684-6242 Robert Baker Companies Wholesale Nursery West Suffield, CT 06093 Jeff Rogers (203) 668-5225 The Scotts Company 14111 Scottslawn Road Marysville, OH 43041 Steve DiVito (203) 723-5190 Shawnmark Industries, Inc. Specialty Products & Service Warwick, RI 02888 Matt Howland (24 hours a day) (401) 295-1673 Terre Company of NJ, Inc. 206 Delawanna Ave., P. O. Box 1000 Clifton, NJ 07014 Byron Johnson, Jr. (203) 748-5069 Toelles Road Sand & Gravel Co. Golf Course Sands & Topdressing Wallingford, CT 06492 Hal Kraus (203) 561-2442 Turf Products Corporation 157 Moody Rd., P. O. Box 1200 Enfield, CT 06082 John Ferry ~ Mark Loper (203) 763-3581 Turf Specialty, Inc. 15 Londonderry Road, Unit 3 Londonderry, NH 03053 Dave Schermerhom (603) 437-0008 Westchester Turf Supply, Inc. P. O. Box 198 Lincolndale, NY 10540 Bob Lippman (914) 248-7476 FAX (914) 248-6862 White Contractors Golf Course Construction & Renovation Old Greenwich, CT 06870 James E. Morris, Jr. (203) 869-8808 Winding Brook Turf Farm, Inc. 240 Griswold Road Wethersfield, CT 06109 Donald Grant (203) 529-6869 & (800) 243-0232