Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents Association Nobleton Lakes Golf Club Achieves Audubon Certification INFORMATION ON: • Pond Renovation • Pro/Superintendent Tournament • How to be a better Boss • Hand Watering Greens • GTI Research Project Update Barry Endicott Superintendent Nobleton Lares The New Lightweight Champion Introducing the Ransomes® 250 Fairway Mower No lightweight contender stands a chance against the hydrostatic drive grips the terrain for an unsurpassed 250’s winning combination of features. All you have cut. Even weight distribution eliminates “bouncing” to do is demo the 250 to appreciate its drive to out­ for a smooth, clean finish. The 23-, 28- or 33-horse- perform, outpower, outproduce and outmaneuver any power engine muscles the 250 up inclines or around mower in its weight class. any obstacle, but not at the expense of agility. The 250 is extremely quick on its feet. Floating cutting heads closely hug the turf Before you put your money behind any other and rugged lightweight, give the Ransomes® 250 a workout. It’s the only mower to have in your comer for a winning performance on the fairway. Ransomes...the reel thing. 1184 PLAINS ROAD EAST BURLINGTON AREA: (905)637-5216 BURLINGTON, ONTARIO TORONTO AREA: (905)338-2404 L7S 1W6 ALL OTHER ONT. AREAS: 1-800-883-0761 Green is s Content contents Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents Association JUNE EDITION 1997 what's inside 2 EDITOR'S COMMENTS advertisers by Mark Piccolo 3 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 3 ZANDER SOD CO. LTD. by Simon George 3 SANCTUARY SYSTEM 4 VANDEN BUSSCHE Nobleton Lakes Golf Club 4 POND RENOVATION PROJECT 6 NU-GRO CORP. by Keith Bartlett 6 O.G.S.A. OFFICE MANAGER 7 ONTARIO SEED COMPANY LTD. Introduction 6 PLAYING GOLF 7 PLANT PRODUCTS GCSAA Leader Board 7 GTI UPDATE 9 VIGRO-PAREX by Rob Witherspoon 8 1997 RESEARCH PROJECT 10 BURNSIDE GOLF SERVICES GTI Report 9 TURFGRASS CONTACT 11 GREEN HORIZONS GTI Update 10 9 WAYS TO BE A BETTER BOSS 12 SOUTHWESTERN Leader Board GCSAA 11 ANNOUNCEMENTS 14 BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 12 CGSA BENEFITS by Bill Fach 19 THE SCOTT COMPANY 13 PRO/SUPERINTENDENT EVENT by Ian Bowen 19 NU-GRO CORP. 14 PICTURES PRO/SUPT. EVENT 19 ALMACK & ASSOCIATES 15 WORKSHOP 19 BLACKS PHOTO CORPORATION 16 ARCHITECTS CONFERENCE by Jim Plett 19 TURFCARE PRODUCTS 17. I GIVE UP by Mark Piccolo 20 CENTURY RAIN 18. HAND WATERING GREENS editor's comments 1997 O.G.S.A. Board of Directors President Simon George Oakville Golf Club Editors Report 905-844-5796 Mark Piccolo Past President Alex La Belle CGCS Merry-Hill Golf Club Its nice to finally see the leaves 519-648-2304 out on the trees. Soon we will all be Vice President Ian Bowen complaining about the hot tempera­ & Golf & Meeting Chairman Oshawa Golf Club tures and wishing for the winter to 905-725-9511 come. In this issue we have some tips on how to be a better boss. We also have some interest­ Treasurer Paul Dodson CGCS Lionhead Golf Club ing facts on hand watering, and Keith Bartlett gives us a 905-455-8400 rundown on Thornhills pond restoration project. Our Pro/Superintendent Tournament was the most success­ Secretary & GCSAA Liaison Bob Heron CGCS Beacon Hall Golf Club ful in years and we welcome our new Office Manager to 905-841-0252 the OGSA. Rob Whitherspoon gives us a rundown of testing going on at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Director & Bylaws Lamont Anderson Pointe West Golf Club Have a problem don’t give up. Want to find out what 519-736-5050 other superintendents are doing, well ask them through Green Is Beautiful. It’s our version of ask the expert. Help Directors & Public Relations John Gravett us to create a link between superintendents through the Credit Valley Golf Club 905-275-2505 use of your magazine. Look inside for details. Again we ask members to support the newsletter Rob Ackerman Markland Wood Golf Club with any material others may find interesting and infor­ 905-625-2062 mative. OGSA Newsletter Director Director & Golf & Meetings Keith Bartlett Thornhill Country Club 905-889-2735 Membership Director Jim Flett Green is Beautiful 1997 & Newsletter Co-Editor Muskoka Lakes Golf Course Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the 705-765-3165 association is not responsible for material published on behalf of its con­ tributors. All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole Director & Newsletter Editor Mark Piccolo or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Galt Country Club 519-650-1503 Director & Scholarship Jeff Burgess Weston Golf Club 416-241-5551 Commerical Printing Full Service Copying Color/Black & White JACQUELINE D' AMATO : OFFICE MANAGER Graphics/Prepress ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS'ASSOCIATION Internet Connected GUELPH TURFGRASS INSTITUTE 328 VICTORIA ROAD, SOUTH Telephone: (519) 824-OGSA Designed & Printed by Fax: (519) 766-1704 City Graphics Design & Print Inc. OFFICE HOURS: 10A.M. - 2 P.M. Tel: (519) 623-2143 Fax: (519) 623-1113 1-800-866-0666 MONDAY - FRIDAY www.citygraphic.com email: city@citygraphic.com president's message O.G.S.A. President Simon George Over the last Staff for all of their efforts. two months, the O.G.S.A. It is very important that we continue has been very these events with our Pros and busy. Discussion other groups involved with the Golf continues with Club operation - we can all gain the O.G.S.A. from these ventures. regarding cooperative The Golf & Meetings Committee conference the clubs, but as I keep saying to my has put together a very good, full issues. Also the Board is looking at members, “Its can only get better.” ways to make our educational pro­ slate of events. The President grams even better and more suc­ Greens Chairman Event at the Park cessful. Club promises to be our premiere I hope that everyone is having a event once again. good Spring in spite of it all and that The Pro-Supt. event was a great we look forward to a fine season. success. This year we had a full The miserable cold spring has not field for the first time. Thanks again P.S. Beware of the Phantom been good for our golf courses or to Dean Baker and the Glen Abbey Pumpkin Smasher... for the revenue producing areas of the audubon cooperative TURF REPAIRS THE AUDUBON COOPERATIVE SANCTUARY SYSTEM NEEDED? FOR TOP QUALITY Nobleton Lakes Golf Club mental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to pro­ Recognized for vide a sanctuary for wildlife on the BENTGRASS, Environmental Excellence golf course property,” said Lee BLUEGRASS, & Mangum, ACSS Manager for SHADEGRASS NOBLETON, ONT. - Nobleton Audubon International. Lakes Golf Club has achieved des­ Call: ignation as a “Certified Audubon To reach certification a course Cooperative Sanctuary” by the must maintain a high degree of Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary environmental quality in System (ACSS), a program of Environmental Planning, Wildlife Audubon and Habitat Management, International, and endorsed by the United States Golf Association. Outreach and Education, Integrated (416) Pest Management, Water Nobleton Lakes is only the fourth in Canada and the ninety-fourth golf Conservation and Water Quality Management. 364-5700 course in North America to receive this honour. For more information contact: “Nobleton Lakes has shown a Audubon International, 46 Rarick strong commitment to its environ­ Rd., Selkirk, New York 12158 August. Those golfers unfortunate pond renovation project enough to hit a ball into the pond and find it would be handling a slime covered, smelly golfball. The complaints would be constant and Thornhill Country Club Pond Renovation Project at least once or twice a week, one By Keith Bartlett OGSA Director person would wade into the pond and skim the algae out. We would try any chemical available such as hydrogen peroxide, or other organic pond aid chemicals but to no avail. Otterbine aerators would not work since the pond was too shallow and there was no colder water to draw from the bottom in order to cool the top portion of the pond. After years of complaints and frustration, the Greens Committee made the pond renovation the biggest priority within our Long Range Plan for two reasons. The first would be to solve a long-stand­ ing problem and second it would be considered relatively non disruptive towards the membership that has been exposed to many capital The 8th hole at Thornhill covered in algae and duck weed improvements in the past four Country Club is called the “Pond” with a less than pleasant odour dur­ years. The pond was at the edge of but for many years it looked like ing the hot, steamy days of July and anything other than a pond. However, the problems associated with this pond is not that uncommon of many other golf courses’ ponds. The water depth is too shallow, the water temperature is too warm, Vanden Bussche water circulation is poor, nutrient Irrigation & Equipment Limited loading is high and the end result is a pond that is covered in algae and duck weed during the hot summer GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION SALES AND SERVICE months. This problem has existed Ontario Distributor of Rain Bird Golf Products for many years and everything (chemically) has been tried but to no avail. The only solution was com­ plete restoration but would require money, create some disruption to the golf course and require several trees to be removed. The pond was created many years ago because there was ground water seeping to the surface in the lowest area of the 8th hole approximately 100 yards from the green.The natural solution was to IRRIGATION SPECIALISTS FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS dig a pond about 4-5 feet deep with Distributors and designers of sprinkler systems to the a surface area of 6000 square feet. The shape of the pond was creative GOLF INDUSTRY MILTON and sexy but over the years organic matter collected in the pond eventu­ (905) 875-4545 ally reducing the depth to 1.5 feet. 1-800-263-4112 The end product was water surface (905) 878-4501 (fax) Thornhill Country Club Pond Renovation Project four years. The pond was at the edge of the hole located next to the road and the compound used to store the material was near at hand. The project was tendered out and W. Searle Ltd. started the project during the final week of September. Carrick Designs Ltd. designed a pond that would meet the club’s objective. These were to enlarge it to 25,000 square feet of surface area; make it as deep as possible (up to 12’); incorporate the pond into play, improve the aesthetics, health of the pond and maintain the original character. The first shovel was put into the ground and last was exactly 220 tandem loads later. To our surprise and disappointment 90% of the material was very wet clay that will not be available as fill for one or two years. There was an excavator backhoe, a D-3 bulldozer and three dumptrucks constantly digging and shaping for five days. The slope of the pond was 1:1 below the water line to reduce the chance of algae forming along the edge of the pond. After spreading the required topsoil, the entire area was sodded and eight trees planted around the back right edge of the pond. The right side of the pond is very close to the road and granite rocks were arranged with various ornamental grasses and native shrubs to create a natural area that would attract songbirds. A stump from our winter tree work approxi­ mately 3.5 feey in diameter was placed in one of the shallow bays to create fish and duck habitats. It was gratifying to see two ducks enjoying this stump within one hour of it being in the pond. There will be aquatic plants placed along the waters edge and in the two shallow bays for further beauty but also to help remove nutrients and oxy­ genate the pond. Also, an Otterbine aerator was set in place to continu­ ously ciculate cold bottom water to the top and increase oxygen levels. The pond can be filled from the irri­ gation system but the May showers have maintained an adequate water level. The true test will be during the summer months on whether algae will form but the improved aesthet­ ics, and added difficulty to the hole has already met the committee’s objectives and received rave reviews from members. new o.g.s.a office manager We’re growing... Introducing The New Office Manager On May 20th, Jacqueline D’Amato became the new Office Manager of the Association. Jacquie brings to the position an exten­ sive background in administration and marketing in both the private and public sector. Most recently she held the posi­ tion of office manager of Guelph 2000, a non profit organization sponsored by The Ministry Of Environment & Energy. As a result the City Of Guelph gained provincial recognition as the first “Green to serve Community” in Ontario. A native of England, Jacquie moved here in 1977 you better! and now resides in Guelph with her hus­ band John and cat Winston. Jacquie can NU-GRO is Canada's be reached at the O.G.S.A. office @ 519-824-6472 and thanks every­ Professional Turf Specialist one for the tremendous support she has received during her first week offering: on the job. • A choice of C-I-L and NU-GRO brands playing golf • Consistent blends utilizing quality raw materials • Experienced Technical Why is it important for a golf superintendent to Support Representatives play golf? GCSAA Leader Board • A wide range of Specialty Turf Fertilizers formulated There are a number of reasons, but the most important is being with S.C.U.® NITROFORM® able to see the course through the eyes of a golfer. This perspective and NUTRALENE® helps you to understand how your maintenance practices, such as mowing heights and water management, affect the game. Since golf course playing conditions change daily, playing the course regularly helps you to see those changes, then adjust course set-up and main­ tenance for optimum playability. Playing golf is part of the job. I recom­ mend that superintendents play with their owners to keep communica­ tion open. You might even make playing golf an element of your employment contract. Playing golf frequently also allows the golf course superintendent an opportunity to check the quality of their employees’ work, and take a closer look at turf conditions in all areas. Woodstock, Ontario N4S BPfa Laval, Quebec H7S 1G3 Calgary, Alberta T2H 2S1 It is important to play with different people - your crew, other superin­ tendents, seniors, women, juniors, and good golfers, and high handi­ WOODSTOCK, ONTARIO Telephone : (519) 456-2021 Fax: (519) 456-5002 cappers, to gain an understanding of their needs and expectations. The result is a course that is fun and challenging or all levels of golfers. GTI update Charbonneau, Jack Eggens other GTI faculty and staff. A plaque and recognizing the support of Hutcheson Sand and Mixes will be GTI UPDATE: THE 1997 RESEARCH SEASON unveiled beside the existing USGA Rob Witherspoon greens and our new green should be near completion by the field day. During the summer, the Guelph tions. Research demand for bent­ OGSA members are also being Turfgrass Institute faces challenges grass putting green turf has invited for a special program at the similar to those experienced by increased significantly in recent GTI on the morning of the OGSA most golf courses in the province. years. The two current USGA Summer Golf Day at the Cutten The grass is growing and mainte­ greens at the GTI are fully occupied Club on Monday, August 25th. nance staff are pushed to the limit this year. Superintendents in the Guelph area to keep up with the growth. The only may be interested in inviting their difference is that instead of shutting The list accompanying this arti­ members to attend the free GTI down the throttle to allow a golfer to cle outlines the research work at Public Open House on Saturday, make a swing, GTI staff throttle the GTI this year. Unfortunately, August 16th. A variety of attractions down to allow researchers to apply space limitations do not allow for are planned including informal a treatment or record an observa­ complete details of each project but tours, free lawn and garden advice, tion. Rather than complaining about the project title, researcher’s name a putting contest and children’s less than pristine conditions, the and primary funding agencies have activities. scientists cherish a weedy patch of been included. Most of the projects, turf or dollar spotted green as it pro­ and the early results, will be on dis­ All members of the turfgrass vides optimum playing conditions play at the GTI-OTRF Research industry are welcome to visit the for their favourite game - investiga­ Field Day on Thursday, August GTI at any time to look over the tive research. 14th. The research day will have a research plots. Please call ahead to new look this year with an expand­ insure that one of our staff will be One of the most exciting devel­ ed program at the GTI. This will on hand to direct you to the appro­ opments at the GTI this summer is allow for a later starting time to give priate area. A list of contact infor­ the construction of a new 16,000 ft2 participants a chance to stop by mation is also included should you USGA green. This project, funded their workplace on the way to the wish to communicate directly with in part by the Ontario Turfgrass field day or allow more time for trav­ any GTI faculty or staff member. We Research Foundation along with ellers to arrive from outlying areas. look forward to seeing you at the significant contributions from the Additional time is being allocated GTI this summer. industry and suppliers, will greatly for participants to interact with expand our capacity to evaluate researchers and the afternoon will Continued... bentgrass cultivars and conduct feature a series of hands-on work­ research under putting green condi­ shops in turf management with Pam ♦ Turface MVP, Moundmaster Over 100 Years of Growing Service ♦ Turf & Tree Fertilizers Tami J. Packham ♦ Pest Control Products David J. Schmelefske A. Kent McDonald Plant Products Co. Ltd., Bramptot 330 Philip St., P.O. Box 144, Waterloo, Ontario Canada N2J 3Z9 (905) 793-7000 or (800) 387-2449 Telephone: (519) 886-0557 Fax: (519) 886-0605 1-800-465-5849 FAX (905) 793-9157 Evaluation: 1997 research projects Bentgrass, Bluegrass, Perennial Ryegrass, Fine Fescue and Tall Fescue Variety Trials - Dr. Steve GTI Report Continued Bowley (OMAFRA and various seed companies) Genetic Transformation of Creeping Weed Control: of Kentucky Bluegrass - Dr. Tom Bentgrass to Enhance Application Safety Interval for Hsiang (Fairlawn Sod, Compact Environmental Stress Tolerance- Pendimethalin - Dr. Chris Hall Sod, OTRF) Disease Forecasting Dr. Steve Bowley, Dr. Bryan (Cyanamid Canada) Biological System for Dollarspot - Dr. Greg McKersie and Dr. Ken Kasha Control of Dandelion Using Fungi - Boland (OTRF, NSERC) Fungicide (CTRF and other sources) Turfgrass Dr. Greg Boland (NSERC) Control of Snow Mould Diseases - Mixture Trial - Dr. Steve Bowley Evaluation of Broadleaf Herbicides Dr. Tom Hsiang (various chemical (OMAFRA, OPAC) NTEP Bluegrass in Fine Turf - Dr. Chris Hall (various companies) Fungicide Control of Variety Trial, Medium-High Input herbicide companies) Non­ Dollar Spot - Dr. Tom Hsiang (vari­ Test - Dr. Steve Bowley (OMAFRA, Chemical Alternatives to Herbicides ous chemical companies) Leaf NTEP) NTEP Bluegrass Variety for Weed Control in Turf - Dr. Chris Wetness Sensors for Turfgrass - Dr. Trial, Low-Input Test - Dr. Steve Hall (OMAFRA) Effect of Fertility Greg Boland (NSERC) Bowley (OMAFRA, NTEP) and Mowing on Broadleaf Weed Infestations in Various Species and Environmental Research: Key to Funding Sources: Mixtures in Turf - Dr. Chris Hall Ammonia and Nitrogen Gas Losses CNTC - Canadian Network of (OMEE, OMAFRA) - Dr. George Thurtell (OMAFRA) Toxicology Centres The Effects of Species Nitrogen Balance of Turfgrass - Dr. CT - Centre for Toxicology Combinations and Nitrogen Fertility Claudia Wagner-Riddle (OMAFRA) CTRF - Canadian Turfgrass Regime on Weed Infestation in Fine Speciation and Fractionation of Research Foundation Turf - Dr. Chris Hall (OMEE, Lead and Arsenic in Former GTI - Guelph Turfgrass Institute OMAFRA) Orchard Soils - Dr. Les Evans EC - Environment Canada (OMAFRA, NSERC) Microcosm LRS - Department of Land Turfgrass Management: Studies on Pesticides and Other Resource Science (University of Evaluation of Various Amendments Environmental Pollutants - Dr. Keith Guelph) for Turfgrass Rootzones - Dr. Ken Solomon (CNTC, CT, UG, EC) NSERC - Natural Science and Carey (OMAFRA and various com­ Engineering Research Council panies) Evaluation of Various Turfgrass Fertility: NTEP - National Turfgrass Turfgrass Species as Mown and GTI 1997 Fertilizer Performance Evaluation Program Unmown Golf Course Roughs - Trial: Kentucky Bluegrass - Dr. Ken OMAFRA - Ontario Ministry of Rob Witherspoon (GTI) Stress Carey and Rob Witherspoon (GTI, Agriculture, Food & Rural Affairs Response of Kentucky OMAFRA and private companies) OMEE - Ontario Ministry of the Bluegrass/Perennial Ryegrass/Fine GTI 1997 Fertilizer Performance Environment & Energy Fescue Monocultures & Mixtures - Trial: Bentgrass Putting Greens - Dr. OPAC - Ontario Pesticide Dr. Ken Carey (OMAFRA) Stress Ken Carey and Rob Witherspoon OTRF - Ontario Turfgrass Research Response of Single and Multiple (GTI, OMAFRA and private compa­ Foundation Cultivar Populations of Bentgrass - nies) UG - University of Guelph Dr. Ken Carey (CTRR OMAFRA) URIF - University Research Water Budget Irrigation Scheduling Ornamental Plant Research: Incentive Fund - Dr. Terry Gillespie and Dr. Bob Shrub Pruning and Evaluation - Dr. Sheard (LRS) Disease Glen Lumis (OMAFRA) Controlled Significant support is provided to Management: Release Fertilizers for Nursery turfgrass research through equip­ Biological Control of Grey Snow Trees - Dr. Glen Lumis (Plant ment loans from G.C. Duke Mould - Dr. Tom Hsiang (CTRF, Products, Vigoro, OMAFRA) Equipment, Ontario Turf Equipment URIF, OTRF) Development and Company, Podolinsky Turf Management of Necrotic Ring Spot Turfgrass Breeding and Variety Equipment and Turf Care Products. Turfgrass contact information Guelph Turfgrass Institute: Dr. Jack Eggens GTI Direct Line (519) 767-5009 GTI Consulting Agronomist - Turf Management Fax (519) 766-1704 (519) 767-5009 Internet Website: www.uoguelph.ca/GTI Dr. Terry Gillespie e-mail: info@gti.uoguelph.ca Microclimatology/lrrigation Scheduling Ext. 2645 GTI Turfgrass Faculty & Staff: tgillesp@lrs.uoguelph.ca Dr. Chris Hall Dr. Greg Boland Weed Control (Turfgrass Research Committee Chair) Disease Prediction/Biological Weed Control Ext. 2740 Ext. 2755 jchall@evbhort.uoguelph.ca gboland@evbhort.uoguelph.ca Dr. Tom Hsiang Dr. Steve Bowley Turfgrass Diseases Variety Evaluation/Bentgrass Breeding Ext. 2753 Ext. 8704 thsiang@uoguelph.ca sbowley@crop.uoguelph.ca Norman McCollum Dr. Ken Carey Research Superintendent Turf Management/Product Evaluation Ext. 6663 Ext. 2777 Dr. Mark Sears kcarey@uoguelph.ca Turfgrass Insects Ext. 3921 msears@evbhort.uoguelph.ca The Ultimate Dr. Bob Sheard GTI Consulting Agronomist - Rootzones All Weather Fertilizer (519) 767-5009 Dr. Gerry Stephenson Turfgrass Insects/Pesticide Persistence Ext. 3402 gstephen@evbhort.uoguelph.ca Rob Witherspoon Low Maintenance Turfgrass/Product Evaluation (GTI IMC Vigoro"s new technology, Director) V-Cote, combined Ext. 6886 with the proven performance of IBDU slow release nitrogen rob@gti.uoguelph.ca provides consistent turf color and quality forand optimum performance Provincial Turfgrass Advisor: Pam Charbonneau OMAFRA Turfgrass Advisor safety all season long. Ext. 2597 pcharbon@omafra.gov.on.ca OMAFRA Turfgrass Hotline 1-888-290-4441 Turf Care All extensions listed above can be reached through the 1-905-836-0988 University of Guelph switchboard at (519) 824-4120. Par Ex®, V-Cotew and IBDU® are trademarks of IMC Vigoro. 9 ways you can be a better boss Leader Board GCSAA 1. Communicate openly and offer information that employees can use to improve honestly. Good communication their work performance. is essential to building strong 5. Admit mistakes. Employers who openly admit their employer/employee relation­ mistakes and shortcomings create an atmosphere in ships. which employees feel comfortable in acknowledging 2. Give employees respon­ their own faults and errors they can be corrected. sibility and control. Loosen the 6. Be open to change. The best bosses look for ways reins of control by encouraging to improve and learn from the experiences of others. initiative and empowering with Pinpoint the successes and failures of others and adapt decision-making. your own management style accordingly. 3. Provide employees with a clear sense of vision and 7. Treat employees with respect. Respect employees direction. Formulate a plan of action and stick to it. for their contributions and also for their Nothing is more frustrating than a boss who sets priori­ worth as individuals. ties and goals, only to change them later. 8. Provide daily encouragement. Employees feel suc­ 4. Keep employees informed about their performance. cessful and put forth a great effort when Good managers do not wait until the annual perfor­ you recognize their achievements. mance appraisal to tell employees about their strengths 9. Solicit employees’ opinions and ideas. Build trust and weaknesses. Frequently schedule brief meetings to and receive respect by asking your employees for their input on issues that concern them. COMPETENCE SERVICE INTEGRI How Do You Measure Up? To see how your employees view your management abilities, take this self-audit. If you answer * Municipal a Environmental Approvals “yes” to most of the questions, • Water Supply, Development & Treatment * Sewage Collection & Treatment you might benefit from manage­ * Environmental Compliance Assessments ment coaching and training. ♦ Environmental Impact Assessments ♦ Pond Design & Construction • Stormwater Management & Drainage Clubhouses, Pumphouses & Equipment Barns » Bridges. Cartpaths A Service Roads Is low morale zapping your department’s productivity? * Sprinkler Head Laser Surveys Do you yell or reprimand your employees? ♦ Computer Aided Mapping A Visualization Do you feel as though things will fall apart in your Services absence? Are your employees afraid to face you with their prob­ lems or concerns? Burnside Do you set aside specific times to communicate with your employees? GOLF SERVICES providing quality engineering Do you fail to provide important information to your & environmental services to Ontario's Golf Industry. employees? CD 1-800-265-9662 • (F) 519-941-8120 Is your day spent fighting workplace fires? The Burnside Group of Companies Do you give more negative than positive feedback? BRANCH OFFICES Source: Manager’s Legal Bulletin , Alexander Hamilton BRAMPTON NEWMARKET ORANGEVILLE OTTAWA STRATFORD Institute, Ramsey, N.J., November, 1996. 905-793-9239 905-953-8967 519-941-5331 613-563-0378 519-271-5111 announcements & special dates Western Ontario Golf Superintendents Association Ontario Golf Superintendents Association Events May 27 Willo-Dell Country Club President/Greens Chairman/Director Event Host: Angelo Toto June 24 Dundee Country Club June 16,1997 Host: Denis Jones Park Country Club, Buffalo N.Y. July 28 Brookfield Country Club Host: Scott Dodson Host: Henry Schmitz August 25 Bridgewater Country Club Host: Steve Sherwood Summer Field Day Sept. 29 Cherry Hill Golf Club August 25,1997 Host: Cecil Hoekstra Cutten Club Georgian Bay Superintendents Association Host: Richard Creed May 27 Springwater Golf Club Contact: Ed Lange - 705-728-1855 Toronto Society of Golf Course Superintendents June 17 Perry Sound Golf and Country Club Contact: Jeff Alexander - 705-342-5262 July 7 Credit Valley Golf Club July 22 Hawkridge Golf Club Contact: Bruce Dodson - 705-329-4553 Sept (Date TBA) Donalda Club August 19 Bonaire Golf and Country Club Oct (Date TBA) National Golf Club Contact: Randy Fielder Sept. 25 Blue Mountain Golf and Country Club Contact: Jim Malley, Jay Lewis (11:30 am Crossover) 705-445-3911 Ottawa Valley Turfgrass Association NEW PRODUCT* TBA OVTRF Get professional Camelot Golf Club Hydro-Seeding July 28 Executive Day results, without the Brockville Golf and Country Club costly investment Sept 22 Fall Field Day Hylands Golf Club of a Hydro-Seeder. Nothern Ontario Golf Superintendent Association August 26 Pro/Super/Directors Day The Establisher™ seed enhancing granule mulch. IDYLWYLDE Golf Country Club Can be applied with a drop or rotary spreader! Oct TBA ★ Available Exclusively through Greenhorizons. Jan. TBA Greater London Area Golf Superintendents June 26 Wardsville Golf Club HAMILTON SOD COMPACT SOD HAMILTON CAMBRIDGE July 23 Greenhills Golf Club (905) 389-1315 (519) 653-7494 Fax- (905) 679-4444 Aug 14 Echo Valley Golf Club Fax- (519) 653-8033 Sept 11 ST. Marys Golf Club SOD OUTLET ONTARIO SOD NIAGARA REGION MISSISSAUGA Oct 2 Hickory Ridge Golf Club (905)984-8448 (905)257-8795 Contact: Mark Hagen 519-471-1400 Our Reputation is Growing! an Occupational Standards CGSA Benefits Document by March 1998. These standards, when completed, will be presented to Turfgrass Educational Institutions to be used in the devel­ CGSA MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS ENHANCED opment of their curriculum. As well, Submitted by Bill Fach, CGSA Ontario Director it will help to create a specific job description for the golf course CGSA believes that environ­ to the various regions of the coun­ superintendent and a more defined mentalism is not a trend. There has try. Once completed, this manual is career path. been an overwhelming response expected to cover over 20 issues from members indicating their and may contain over 300 pages strong support for the need to that will include appendices and a develop an Environmental glossary. Management Resource Manual The manual is in development and CGSA’s second major project is scheduled to be available in late involves the development of fall 1997. Mark Scenna of National Occupational Standard. At Environmental Investigations in CGSA’s board meeting held last Ontario, and Kirk Morrison of Bel - September in Montreal, it was MK Engineering in Alberta have agreed that CGSA should enter an been contracted to put together the agreement with Human Resources information required to produce this Development Canada to pursue the manual. Jay Leach and his steering first step to develop National committee are doing the peer Occupational Standards. The goal review and the material contained of Rob Officer and his national will be applicable nationally as well steering committee is to complete as highlighting information pertinent Southwestern SALES CORPORATION LIMITED • DOCKAGE • LOADING • TRUCKING • WEIGHING • SERVING SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO FROM DOCKS IN WINDSOR, SARNIA, SOMBRA, KINGSVILLE Head Office: 100 Lesperance Rd., Tecumseh, Ontario WINDSOR (519) 735-9822 BULK AGGREGATES FACSMILE # (519) 735-1913 BUNKER SAND JOHN FRYE REG. SALES MANAGER Team winners for the day were as follows: Pro/Superintendent event Team Low Gross 1st: Saugeen Golf Club Gary Gravett 68 Joe Rettinger Glen Abbey's History by Ian Bowen, OGSA Director Team Low Gross 2nd: Mississauga Golf Club Glen Abbey’s unique Swinging Monk symbol has an Terry Magee 69 interesting history. Glen Abbey was originally a large Gar Hamilton country estate and when its owner passed away, he bequeathed the property to some Jesuit priests for use Team Low Gross 3rd: Blue Springs Golf Club Ted Ellis 71 as a retreat. After several years, the priests moved on Bob McClure as the estate was too large for them to care for. However, their stay left its mark and The Abbey is reported to be haunted by the ghost of a friendly monk. Mad River Golf Club A group of Oakville businessmen purchased the prop­ Low Net Team Winners erty and turned it into Upper Canada Golf and Country Club. It subsequently became the Clearstream Golf and Country Club, and finally Glen Abbey. This course was the first public golf club in Canada to be specifically designed for major tournaments with the spectator in mind. The Abbey, designed by Jack Nicklaus, serves as the annual host to the Canadian Open Golf Championship and more than 100 corporate golfing events. Course Superintendent Dean Baker is no stranger to Glen Abbey. Dean has worked on the greens staff since it’s opening in 1977. After graduating from the University of Guelph in 1985, he worked his way up the ladder obtaining the Head Superintendent position in 1989. Dean has enjoyed 16 years at Glen Abbey, tak­ ing part in 15 Canadian Opens and numerous corporate events each year. In 1994, the Nicklaus organization recog­ Team Low Net 1st: Mad River Golf Club nized Dean by naming him their Superintendent of the Ray Richards 68 year, a rare honour that encompasses all superinten­ Brian French dents working within the Nicklaus organization. Team Low Net 2nd: Galt Golf & Country Club Mark Piccolo Gracious Hosts Dave Smallwood 68 Glen Abbey Golf Club, served as gracious hosts for our annual Pro/Superintendent Event, on May 13th. Saugeen Golf Club Host Superintendent Dean Baker insured the course Low Gross Winners was in excellent condition for all those who attended. Hospitality, was the key word of the day. Jack McClellen, Club House Manager/Head Pro and all his excellent staff are to be congratulated for making this truly an excellent event. Individual winners for the day were as follows: Low Gross Super: Thom Charters 78 Low Net Super: Ken Wright 69 Low Gross Pro 1st: David Miller 73 Low Gross Pro 2nd: Gar Hamilton 73 pro/superintendent event Ian Bowen/Dean Baker Simon George/Cindi Charters Keith Bartlett/Tom Charters Keith Bartlett/Ken Wright Economical Pole Frame Buildings For All Your Needs..... Building Systems Ltd. RURAL & COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS Call collect to Jack or Rick Brenzil for a Free Estimate... (905) 772-3551 (905) 388-6865 Over 30 Years Experience workshop Microscopic Diagnosis of Turfgrass Diseases Workshop Tuesday July 15, 1997 This workshop has been designed to make you Cancellation comfortable with using a microscope for disease diag­ If you are unable to attend, please send a colleague nosis and to teach you some of the key diagnostic fea­ in your place. However, if you must cancel, please noti­ tures of the main turfgrass diseases. By the end of the fy Pam Charbonneau as soon as possible at (519) 824- workshop you will: 4120 ext. 2597. Cancellations must be received at least be able to prepare disease samples for microscopic seven days prior to the course for a full refund. examination distinguish mycelium of different pathogens The Instructors identify spores of different pathogens Pam Charbonneau is the Turfgrass Specialist with be provided with a reference manual with the key the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural pathogen diagnostic features included Affairs. know where to purchase a second hand microscope and know what features to look for in a microscope. Marilyn Dykstra is coordinator of the Pest Diagnostic Clinic, Laboratory Services Division, University of Who should attend? Guelph. golf course superintendents/assistant Agenda superintendents consultants 12:30 - 1:00 Registration and coffee technical advisors for pesticide companies lawn care professionals 1:00 -1:10 Welcome and introductions anyone involved in turf disease diagnosis 1:10 - 1:30 Environmental and Cultural Workshop Format Considerations on Turf Disease Diagnosis This workshop will consist of both lectures and a laboratory session. Emphasis will be placed on hands- 1:30 - 2:15 Introduction to Fungal Pathogens The on laboratory identification of turf pathogens. The work­ Microscope shop will be held in room 3308 of graham Hall at the University of Guelph from 12:30 pm to 5:00 pm, July 15, 2:15-2:30 Break 1997. 2:30 - 4:30 Laboratory section - looking at samples; Registration Fee stations with microscopes and different turf diseases The registration fee is $99.00 + GST. The fee will include tuition, laboratory supplies, an identification 4:30 - 5:00 Wrap-up, questions and answers, useful manual and Publication 162, “Diseases and Insects of references, where to purchase microscopes and other Turfgrass in Ontario”. To register, please complete the supplies. attached registration form and return it with payment to Contact Pam Charbonneau for details (519) 824- Pam Charbonneau at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute by 4120 ext. 2597 July 4, 1997. Registration will be on a first come first serve basis. Enrolment is restricted to 20 participants. Unionizing Golf Courses: architects conference A Sleeping Giant? Union organizing was fairly active during the 1970’s and early 1980’s and has appeared to be slumbering, Submitted by and how it became one of the high­ until now. Significance to golf est ranking courses in golf. courses: Golf courses may provide Jim Flett OGSA Director The architects agreed that Stanley a fertile ground for unionizing. Thompson had in fact created a Why? Golf course maintenance For the first time in their 50 years masterpiece that is timeless and and clubhouse workers usually of existence, the American Society would be enjoyed by many in gen­ aren’t well payed, don’t receive sig­ of Golf Course Architects (ASGCA) erations to come. Bob Brewster, nificant benefits, and often lack met in Canada for their annual superintendent at Toronto Golf later respect from their customers and meeting and conference. Architects did the same by presenting the his­ employers. from all over North America were in tory of his course before the group Strategies to maintain Union- attendance including some of the teed off. Free Status Conduct a review of well known American architects Another morning, Gord your current personnel policies and Michael Hurdzan, Pete Dye, and Witteveen was called upon to practices. Be sure practices are not Rees Jones. address the architects with a pre­ discriminatory an you are not violat­ While in town for the week sta­ sentation of his best slides display­ ing federal and state wage and hour tioned at the International Hotel, the ing life behind the scenes on the laws. architects also were able to take golf course. Create a trusting and respectful time to play some of our superb Canadian architect, Doug environment. Communicate face-to- courses throughout the city area Carrick, who had apparently done a face regularly. Recognize employ­ including, St. Georges, Toronto lot of the organization for the event, ees’ achievements. Golf, Rosedale, The National, must have been feeling extremely Educate golfers. Insist that golfers Beacon Hall, Devils Paintbrush and proud when his peers played his top treat your employees with dignity Angus Glen. Canadian ranked Angus Glen lay­ and respect. Set the example by At St. Georges, in the morning out near Unionville on what was a being the role model for the way before golf on the putting green, testy day for golf with dry and windy employees should be treated by superintendent John Gall, dis­ conditions. your customers and their peers. cussed the history of the course Now you can achieve professional Hydro-Seeding results without the costly investment of a Hydro-Seeder. The Establisher™ granules have been The Establisher™ is a dark green/blue specially formulated to assist in the granule that provides an attractive soil establishment of turf. coverage while increasing germination The Establisher™ granules will: and seedling vigor. The combination of □ Be applied with a drop spreader or super absorbent clay particles, wood rotary spreader for larger areas and cellulose mulch and new seedling □ Absorb water quickly (holds up to fertilizer will dramatically enhance any 4 times its weight in water) new seeding or repair project. Reduce soil and water erosion THE ESTABLISHER™ □ Expand to cover the soil surface to Seed Enhancing Mulch increase germination Available exclusively from GREENHORIZONS □ Provide a specially formulated For more information call the fertilizer to help germination & Greenhorizons location nearest you. establishment Compact Sod-Cambridge (519) 653-7494 Ontario Sod-Mississauga/Oakville (905) 257-8795 Hamilton Sod-Mount Hope (905) 389-1315 a rule? If not, what is the USGA’s i give up policy on the subject? (Maine) Answer: Just remember “down and I Give Up out.” There is no specific rule Mark Piccolo regarding placement of bunker rakes; however, for the UGSA’s Well Don’t. The answer you’re look­ Superintendent championships we request that the ing for might be just around the cor­ Long and short-term planning bunker rakes be placed outside of ner. Ever have a question asked Budgeting the bunker, lying down (not stuck in and you’re not sure what the answer Personnel evaluation and train­ the turf vertically), and parallel to is. Or you’re interested in what other ing Governmental and environmen­ the direction of play. In most cases, Superintendents are doing but are tal compliance and updates this arrangement has the least afraid to ask. Here’s your chance! Evaluation and planning of fertil­ objectionable impact on play. izer, chemical and cultural pro­ However, for regular play, the best With the help from the membership grams placement is the one that the major­ we wish to create our own commu­ Purchasing and pricing ity of golfers prefer. nication link among Equipment evaluation and pur­ USSA Greens section record. Superintendents. Submit an idea, chase question, or method of doing some­ Evaluation and update to the Question: Our greens seem to thing golf course related for the irrigation system planning become hard and unreceptive to newsletter and we will publish it in New product introduction and golf shots, especially during the the following issue, and ask other familiarization summer months when the golf Superintendents to voice the expe­ Continuing education course dries out. We encourage our riences back to the newsletter. superintendent to water more fre­ Here are a few examples to stimu­ Maintenance Staff quently to soften the surfaces, but late your mind. Don’t be shy, your Tree trimming and removal he refuses, saying that heavy first deadline is July 1, 1997. Fax Equipment servicing and watering will only make the greens material to the OGSA Office. rebuilding harder and hurt turf quality. Snow removal Question: What do you and your Facilities maintenance and Answer: The irrigation system staff do all winter? Commonly improvement should not be used to keep greens asked of superintendents at cours­ Course accessories repair and soft, as this method will result in es with cold winter climates. painting excessive water applications that Answered by Dick Stuntz, CGCS, Course preparation in good can lead to further soil compaction, Alvamar Golf Course, Lawrence weather a reduction in surface quality, and Kan. Irrigation system repair, bunker conditions that favour weaker grass repair and sanding plants. A long-range program of Our off-season goal is to improve Numerous course repairs and aerification and topdressing with a and enhance our in-season perfor­ improvements good quality topdressing material is mance and efficiency. Everything is the best approach for creating a done to produce the best possible The weather largely dictates the pri­ surface that will accept a properly playing conditions, year after year, ority in which we tackle these tasks, hit golf shot. Dry firm surfaces gen­ for our golfers. but there is plenty of work to keep erally are the most desirable for Here’s a brief “to-do” activity list for us busy, even in the worst weather. maintaining high quality turf and winter operations: good playing conditions. Question: Our golf committee has USGA Greens section record. had a running debate on the proper positioning of bunker rakes. Is there should be to match the water appli­ hand watering greens cation rate with infiltration rate of the soil. It may take several minutes and several light applications of water to wet the soil. For hydropho­ There is a correct way bic areas, spiking the area first can by Pat Gross USGA Green Section improve water penetration. Spot applications of wetting agents also have been successful in treating localized dry spots; however, don’t overuse these products to compen­ sate for excessive thatch accumula­ tion, compaction, or poor irrigation system coverage. In many cases, an aerifier will do a better job than a barrel of wetting agent. Putting surfaces may wilt during the summer due to high tempera­ tures, high winds, and hours of intense sunlight. In these cases, syringing the greens with a light application of water can help revive the plant. The idea is to reduce the moisture stress of the leaf tissue and allow the plant to continue a balanced transpiration rate. Syringing is a very misunderstood operation. It is important to remem­ ber that you are only trying to sus­ Summer is here, and there is applies water in a gentle showering tain the grass plant with a very light nothing an overheated mainte­ fashion. If regular soil probes can­ application of water, not wet the nance staff member would rather not be purchased, effective probes soil. do than hand water greens on a hot can be made by cutting down a bro­ Hand watering greens should afternoon. After all, it’s an easy job - ken golf club shaft and cutting out a not be forgotten on weekends. A grab a hose, hook it up to a quick view port using a bench grinder. superintendents worst nightmare is coupler, and soak the grass. Right? Staff members should be trained to to return from a well-deserved Think again. That employee may be check the greens with the soil probe weekend off only to find the greens doing more harm than good if he or to determine soil moisture levels scorched due to lack of water. she is not familiar with the proper before applying any water. Many (Actually, this is only one of sev­ way to hand water greens. disease and insect problems dis­ eral nightmares that superinten­ A 1992 survey of the Green play symptoms similar to localized dents have!) It is a good idea to Section staff indicated that over-irri­ dry spots. Watering these areas will schedule one or two people to gation of greens was one of the top often make the situation come in on Saturday and Sunday 10 maintenance pitfalls. Over­ worse. If the turf is wilting and ade­ afternoon to check the greens and watering contributes to disease quate moisture is present, staff hand water as necessary. As a development and inconsistent play­ members should report this condi­ final note, check into the reason for ing conditions. Even the best- tion to the superintendent immedi­ the localized dry spots. designed irrigation system cannot ately. Hand watering the wrong way These areas could be the result produce a green with perfectly uni­ can do as much damage to the of poor sprinkler head coverage, form moisture content throughout. playing surface as no watering at worn nozzles, tree root encroach­ Occasional hand watering is neces­ all. ment, compaction, or excessive sary, therefore, to compensate for Puddles on the surface of the thatch accumulation. Be sure to localized dry spots or to cool the green can promote the develop­ treat the cause and not just the turfgrass canopy, and to maintain ment of pythium or a condition symptoms. consistent playing conditions. known as “wet wilt.” If the soil is dry, A couple of basic tools are nec­ water should be applied gradually, Pat Gross is an agronomist in essary to do the job right - a soil in a showering manner, so that pud­ the USGA Green Section’s Western probe and hose-end nozzle that dling or runoff is avoided. The goal Region. The Scotts Company Dave Dick Jeff McMaster PROFESSIONAL TURF PRODUCTS Turfgrass Specialist Turfgrass Specialist Rob Field 39 Monte Vista Trail 1864 Bowler Drive Ontario Sales Manager - PTP Brampton, Ont. L6Z 2J7 Pickering, Ont. L1V 3E4 Tel: (905)541-8872 Fax: (905)632-2158 Fax & Phone 905-846-3319 Fax & Phone 905-839-6526 RO. Box 1148, Hwy. #59 S., Woodstock, Ontario N4S 8P6 Scotts Head Office 1-800-543-0006 Customer Service 1-800-268-2806 Corrie Almack, P.Ag. STONE ROAD STONE ROAD MALL. 435 STONE ROAD WEST. GUELPH. ONTARIO NIG 2X6 Almack & Associates TELEPHONE: (519) 836-4851 Box 256, Carlisle, Ontario LOR 1HO 905-689-6174 STORE #47 It's Here... The Next Generation of Central Control SitePro ■ Usable Graphics - Not just pretty pictures ■ Accurate and Precise ■ Flexible - User-definable programs ■ Quick and Easy Adjustments ■ Modular - Use only what you need ■ Optional GPS Accurate Mapping Contact the Irrigation Department at (905) 836-0988 to learn more about this exciting new product. TURF CARE Newmarket • Mississauga • Ottawa • Montreal Plus our New Scarborough Store Call Century for Solutions When Irrigating Tees to Greens Every golf course has a few problem tees and greens. Maybe it's puddling at the base of a slope or poor soil infiltration. If you're looking for irrigation solutions, give Century a call. Our trained technical staff has provided golf course irrigation systems for over 30 years, and can help you with new courses, retrofits, central control and quality products. Like Legacy G70 golf rotors from the world leader in gear-drive technology. It's compatible with all existing systems, has a sturdy, impact-resistant body and delivers even water distribution. Call Century today for solutions to golf course irrigation problems : 800-347-4272. ETHICAL STANDARDS OF ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS' ASSOCIATION • To ensure that respect is accorded our profession, our Association and our individual members, these ethical standards are to be observed and practised.. • Maintain courteous relation with your employer, employees and fellow superintendents, while practising sound business and turf management. • Continue to broaden your knowledge through formal education channels and by exchanging experiences and ideas with fellow members. • Endorse products or practises only when completely satisfied through personal experience.. • Refrain from corresponding either verbally or in writing, with a Director, member or official of another club, regarding its affairs, without the prior knowledge of that club's superintendent. • Apply only for a position that is vacant, and, if possible, talk to the person who held the job last or other local superintendents. • Offer employment to another club's employee only after advising that club's superintendent. • Notify the superintendent of the club you are visiting directly, and, whenever possible, do so in advance. • Misrepresenting the Association and yourself by lending your membership card will not be condoned.. • It is the responsibility of each member to abide by these standards and to report any violations to the Board of Directors, in writing. Î TURF CARE Toro Offers 1,120 Ounces Of Prevention. Their Service Manuals And Operator Videos TORO offers preventions and cures Operator Training in their service manuals and Videos teach operator videos. They will help you your crew the get more from your equipment. operation, safety, And your crew. adjustment and The service manuals servicing of Toro supplement your owner’s manuals with stops for easy equipment. They’re troubleshooting, preventive especially helpful for maintenance and repair. seasonal worker For more information on specific service manuals or training videos contact the TURF CARE PARTS DEPARTMENT at 1-800-561-8873 "BEAM ME DOWN SCOTTIE"...Toro's TurfEvaluator Your New Way to Evaluating Reel Mower Performance It’s a hand-held grass viewing tool which is ideal for accurately detecting the slightest surface imperfections, close-up, with a measuring scale for height discrepancies, and a larger view that detects other variations. Some Cut imperfections the TurfEvaluator Can Detect are: Stragglers • Streaks • Tire Tracks • Scalping • Grain • Straight Mismatch Talk to your Turf Care Representative today-he has one in his truck. Capture the best of both worlds TURF CARE and TORO, working hard to provide you with better parts & service. You can write us, phone us, fax us, and now locate us on the Web! www.turfcareproducts.ca 190 Britannia Rd. E., Unit 22 140 Milner Ave., Unit 24 2465 Stevenage Dr., Unit 110 Mississauga, Ont. L4Z 1W6 Scarborough, Ont. MIS 3R3 Ottawa, Ont. K1G 3W2 Ph: (905) 890-6290 Fax: (905) 890-5598 Ph: (416) 298-2101 Fax: (416) 298-8758 Ph: (613) 736-1890 Fax: (613) 736-0159 Turf Care Products Canada Limited 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET, ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 PHONE (905) 836-0988 FAX: (905) 836-6442