August 2000 Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association How did you weather the storms? Spring field day President / greens chairman / superintendent and director tournament Verti-Drain's patented parallelogram design shatters the soil. Coring tines are also available on all models. Without a doubt, the Verti-Drain 7117 Mustang is the fastest, most effective aerator on the market today. While it still features the unique, patented "heave" action, there are many new improvements, including single-point arm adjustment, a stronger tine support system and fewer moving parts. The 7117 can drive 6" tines, solid or hollow, at a rate For more information, faster than any other aerator, which makes it the perfect or a free demonstration, machine for high speed runs down sportsfields, fairways please call our sales office. and for even shorter work on the greens. 1184 PLAINS ROAD EAST BURLINGTON, ONTARIO L7S 1W6 Burlington Area: (905)637-5216 Toronto Area: (905) 338-2404 All Other Ontario Areas: (800) 883-0761 Fax: (905) 637-2009 Contents Green is HOW DID YOU WEATHER THE STORMS? ........... 12 A fishy story.................................................................................... 18 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Bill C-388: a sign of the times? .................................................... 9 C.G.S.A. news ................................................................................. 6 Congratulations Tom Yates ........................................................... 17 Editor's message........................................................................... 5 Golf course highlight - London hunt & country club ..................... 11 Health and safety .......................................................................... 7 Library donation program............................................................. 17 Looking back ................................................................................... 27 Mechanic's corner.......................................................................... 7 O.G.S.A. / G.T.I. spring field day .................................................... 23 Precipitation in Ontario region..................................................... 16 President / greens chairman / superintendent and director tournament ..................................................... 8 President's message ...................................................................... 4 Research and development COVER PICTURE - BIOLOGY & CONTROL OF DOLLAR SPOT .................................................... 20 Victoria Park East Golf Club Guelph, Ontario "Supers" - where do they hide their capes?.............................. 19 Photo taken by Dorothy Hills The referee .................................................................................... 6 Turf or consequences ..................................................................... 26 Advertisers Albion Golf Cars and Turf Equipment......................................... 6 Almack & Associates ..................................................................... 9 Braemar Building Systems ............................................................ 18 Century Rain Aid............................................................................. 10 DOL Turf Restoration Ltd.................................................................22 G.C. Duke Equipment Ltd.............................................................. 2 Graphic Services Ltd....................................................................... 4 Hydro Agri Canada ....................................................................... 5 John Eisen Ltd................................................................................... 18 Maple Farm Supply ....................................................................... 5 OSC Seeds ........................................................................................ 21 The P.E.S.T. Institute........................................................................ 27 Plant Products Turf ....................................................................... 7 The Scotts Company....................................................................... 18 Skyway Lawn Equipment Limited............................................... 9 Turf Care Products Canada - Irrigation Division......................... 17 Turf Care Products Canada ............................................................ 28 United Horticultural Supply .......................................................... 26 Vanden Bussche Irrigation & Equipment Limited ...................... 19 Zander Sod Co. Limited................................................................. 6 President's message The diversity of the province of Ontario is reflected not only in the geographical differences but also the weather. The Toronto area continues to get hammered by heavy thunderstorms and northern Ontario is hoping for rain. It is these challenges from Mother Nature that can make this ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS’ profession so challenging. ASSOCIATION I had the opportunity to play in a golf and Guelph Turfgrass Institute meeting day organized by the Georgian Bay 328 Victoria Road South Association at the Parry Sound Golf and Country Guelph, ON N1H6H8 Club. The host Golf Course Superintendent, Jeff Ph: 519-767-3341 Alexander is doing a great job and will continue to Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Fax: 519-766-1704 uncover all the potential of that golf course for its members and guests in the future. Email: ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca The meetings organized by these regional associations provide a great opportunity to meet during the busy golf season and exchange information or catch up. When I BOARD OF DIRECTORS left that day, I realized the number of people you see only once or twice a year PRESIDENT Keith Bartlett during the trade shows and conferences. I look forward to visiting other regional PAST PRESIDENT Ian Bowen groups before the end of the season and encourage others to do so as well. VICE-PRESIDENT John Gravett The President/Greenschairman Event at Donalda Golf Club was very successful TREASURER Jim Flett SECRETARY Mark Piccolo once again. Dean Baker and Paul Scenna have continued to organize successful DIRECTORS Rob Ackerman golf and meeting events during the previous two years. The golf course was Dean Baker excellent and the extensive damage from the May 12th rain storm was Jeff Burgess undetectable. Furthermore, the Donalda Club was an excellent host. The OGSA is Bob Burrows always looking for golf clubs to accommodate the different events for the year. If Dave Cours you think your club would be interested, the OGSA would be very pleased to Robert Heron Paul Scenna approach your club. OFFICE A short time ago, there was a call for nominations for the Score Magazine’s ADMINISTRATOR Dorothy Hills Superintendent of the Year Award. There was only one nomination received and the Board of Director’s have endorsed Paul White of the Briar’s Club to be Ontario’s candidate. On behalf of the Board of Director’s and entire membership, we support Paul’s nomination and look forward to his acceptance of this award. Watch for the GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL 75th Anniversary COMMITTEE Bob Burrows, Editor Commemorative Publication Dorothy Hills, Coordinating Manager Randy Booker "A Century of Greenkeeping" Angelo Capannelli to be published soon Greg O'Heron Mark Piccolo Mark Prieur Mark Schneider Jeff Stauffer Eric Williamson Layout, Design & Printing provided by... GRAPHIC Green is Beautiful 2000 Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the association is not responsible for material published on SERVICES behalf of its contributors. All rights are reserved by the publisher PRINTERS & LITHOGRAPHERS “Green is Beautiful” and any reproduction in whole or part is Printed on without the written permission of the Recycled Paper publisher is prohibited. e-mail: info@graser-novtic.com CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL 32 - 34 Essex Street Guelph, ON N1H 3K8 PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 1689932 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to Tel.: (519) 763-5745 • Fax: (519) 763-9532 The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1H 6H8 Editor's message It's never too early Rain, rain go away! As the saying goes. Our historical amount of rain­ to think about SNOW... fall to-date has been exceeded, and this issue will focus on some of the or stories that are timely around the Province. I would like to thank those members who took some of their precious time to tell us about their SNOW MOLD and the unique problems and solutions to our recent flooding, in central Ontario. In the last issue of Green is Beautiful, damage it can cause Dr. Ken Carey had an article on irrigation scheduling principles. I on opening day somehow doubt that we were able to put to practice his ‘tools for dry times’ but never-the-less his topic may be valuable information in July or August , or next season. Other timely topics are covered by Pam Charbonneau on dollar spot, and Federal Bill C-388 on cosmetic use of pesticides by John Gravett. Our roving highlight of a golf course moves West to London Hunt, and Bob Leggitt writes about another rules problem in and around the bunker. You will also notice that this issue is a few pages longer than usual. Please consider submitting a photo or article, at some point, to be eligible for one or both of our new awards. The photo of the year award, and “Barry Endicott article of the year award” will hopefully stir up some excitement. Welcome! O.G.S.A. Welcomes our newest members Mark Webb Class F Castlemore Golf & CC NUTRITE offers the Kurt Rasmus Class B Ballantrae Golf Club Neil Romahn Class C improved winter protection of NUTRI-Q I Organic based Nutri-Q II 14-3-3 is a homogenous NPK mini prill. The Quintozene is incorporated into the prill for maximum distribution, coverage and protection Brett Murray Technical Sales - Professional Products against grey or pink snow mold. Ideal for late fall or early winter application. Maple Farm Supply Bus: (905) 857-2000 Plan ahead — call your Nutrite/Hydro 8112 King Road West Mobile: (416) 616-8112 P.O. Box 370 Fax: (905) 857-8215 Agri Canada representative or Bolton, Ontario L7E 5T3 1-800-268-4425 distributor today. 1-800-265-8865 brettmurray@sympatico.ca Canadian Golf Superintendents Association news by Bill Fach Annual Conference and Trade Silent Auction - great buys Website Information - Show - plan now it looks great and all for a good cause www.golfsupers.com The CGSA/WCTA Canadian The third Silent Auction, benefiting The Members Only area of the International Turfgrass Conference the Superintendent Professional website is now up and running! It and Trade Show planning is well under Development and Educational Fund highlights Members Only Forums on way and the educational program looks will be held in conjunction with the topics including: education, CGSA to be one of the best. There will be a conference and trade show at the questions, used equipment, Employment dedicated tradeshow time with no Annual Conference in February 2001. Referral Service (ERS requires a special competing educational sessions, so that Over the past two years we have set password for subscribers), and updates time can be spent looking at the aside over 100,000 dollars for this fund. for the Environmental Management equipment and products available In addition to all the great deals, we are Resource Manual. from the suppliers. The dates have helping our fellow superintendents. changed from previous years. It will be Anyone interested in donating an item, held on February 24th to the 27th, please contact Samantha Sutz at the 2001. Planning is also underway for a office 1-800-387-1056. golf tournament before these dates. The referee Rakes in or out of bunkers? by Bob Leggitt Rules Chairman, O.G.A. here is no them at the side which tends to stop a player is perfect answer ball rolling into the flat part of the obliged to rake a large area of the for the position bunker, resulting in a much more bunker resulting in unnecessary delay. of rakes near difficult shot than would otherwise Therefore, after considering all bunkers, but it is have been the case. This is most these aspects, it is recommended that felt that there is prevalent at a course where the rakes should be left outside bunkers in less likelihood of bunkers are small. When the ball areas where they are least likely to an advantage or comes to rest on or against a rake in the affect the movement of the ball. disadvantage to bunker and the player must proceed Also it is understood that main­ players if rakes under Rule 24-1 (Movable tenance workers who cut grass would are placed outside of bunkers. Obstructions), it may not be possible to prefer the rakes to be inside the It may be argued that there is more place the ball on the same spot or find bunkers. At the same time the person likelihood of a ball being deflected into a spot in the bunker which is not maintaining the bunkers would prefer or kept out of a bunker if the rake is nearer the hole. the rakes be placed outside the bunkers. placed outside the bunker. It can also If rakes are left in the middle of the As Rules officials in charge of be argued that if the rake is in the bunker the only way to position them is tournaments our preference is that rakes bunker it is most unlikely that the ball to throw them into the bunker and this should be placed outside of bunkers. will be deflected out of the bunker. causes damage to the surface. Also, if a Ultimately, it is a matter for the However, in practice, players who rake is left in the middle of a large Committee to decide where it wishes leave rakes in bunkers frequently leave bunker it is either not used or the the rakes to be placed. 29 ADVANCE ROAD TORONTO, ONTARIO M8Z2S6 PHONE: (416)2364 001 FAX: (416)236-4654 www.albiongolfcars.com BRUCE MCDONALD SUPPLIERS OF TOP QUALITY BENT AND BLUE GRASSES (416) 364-5700 Mechanic's corner Dangerous tampering Reprinted from Reel Grind, Vol. 6 1999 my EZ-GO fleet I found that our On screws from the Fastener Centre part helpers in the Pro-Shop tried to speed #M04-006-436Z. They are metric up the carts by turning the throttle set machine screws with pan slots 4mm x screw all the way down, thereby 6mm. When used they are long enough opening the butterfly in the carburetor to adjust the carburetor but will not completely. By doing so the car will go effect the speed. To make sure they stay only full speed and is virtually in place I used Loctite 222 Small Screw uncontrollable. I bought a new set of Thread Locker. Health and safety Diving on the golf course Win the war By DougJohnson, against pests SAFETAID and nutrient About three years ago there was a This form identifies things like big fuss about diving for golf balls. There were a few incidents and the the location, date, duration, depth and a description of the tasks deficiencies. Ontario Ministry of Labour (OMoL) expected to be performed. This form became very involved with this issue. I must be completed with input from am sure you will remember that the OMoL diving inspectors imple­ the diving supervisor appointed for the diving operation. Ask us for a mented a blitz on golf courses complete The plan will also indicate the around the province. Many courses emergency procedures for recovery were identified as potential areas and evacuation in the event that where diving regulations had to be in something goes wrong. place. Has your course been The regulation requires that following the rules? With all the rain early in the season, your ponds and water hazards may be quite full. It is probably a good time to remind everyone of the whenever SCUBA is required for Golf Ball retrieval, there be a diving tender, a standby diver and the diver. All divers must have had a medical examination within the last 24 solution diving rules. You might want to pass this information on to the individual month period and the employer must ensure that the each diver, the to all your responsible for bringing the divers on to your course. supervisor and one other worker at When a dive takes place, it is a the site has basic emergency first aid turf care needs. requirement that the dive team and CPR training. follow the Ontario Regulation All divers must use a lifeline while 692/94: Diving Operations. When in the water and it must meet the the divers are hired or allowed access criteria as identified in the regu­ to your course the employer has an lations. You must also ensure that obligation to ensure that the rules are there is a two way communication being followed. system for the submerged diver. The club should ensure that the This is a quick overview of the OMoL has been notified of the diving regulation, so if you require more operation prior to the com­ information or clarification on this mencement of the dive. This notice issue please contact the OMoL or Plant Products Co. Ltd., 314 Orenda Rd., Brampton ON must be on a “Notice for Commercial Doug Johnson. L6T 1G1 (905) 793-7000, 800-387-2449, Fax (905) 793-9157 Diving Operations” form. Have a great SAFE season. President / greens chairman / superintendent and director tournament by Dean Baker O.G.S.A. Golf Tournament Director The President / Greens Chairman event has always been the most popular tournament the O.G.S.A. hosts... this year was no exception, at the Donalda Club, with our host superintendent, Paul Scenna, club president, Borden Rosiak, Greenchairman, Hart Sernick and General Manager, Bryan Sparks. Registration was fast and furious booking up quickly. Our apologies to those teams that did not make it in this year but rest assured, you will be first on the list next year. This event has not only been a great way for Superintendents to get together, but an excellent venue for The Donalda team. Club Managers, Greens Chairman, and Club Presidents to share ideas from 2ND PLACE - Phil Brown’s Team from Paul would also like to thank his each of their home Club. Summit Golf Club - Score 123 Assistant Scott White and his staff for After a stormy Spring, which left the 3RD PLACE - Aldo Bortolon’s Team their hard work in not only getting the course closed for several days under silt from Lookout Point Country Club - course ready for the tournament, but and mud, the remnants of the flood Score 127 also making the course look like there were no where to be found. A perfect 4TH PLACE - Paul White’s Team from never was a flood. day greeted all who made the trip, to a The Briars Golf Club - Score 129 Thanks again to the Donalda Team golf course that was in excellent shape, 5TH PLACE - Steve Holmes’ Team who played perfect hosts, on a perfect the meal was wonderful, and service and from Maple Downs Golf & Country day. Until next year! hospitality provided by all the staff was Club - Score 129 friendly and professional. I would also Closest to the Hole like to thank Bill Fach from York Downs #7- Sandy Billyard Golf Club and John Taylor from from Hunters Hunters Pointe Golf Club for taking Pointe Golf Club care of the Paramutual for us. If John Closest to the Hole was smart, he bet on his own team which #14 - Bob means, he probably went home with Cammidge from more than just the trophy and prizes. Saugeen Golf Club This year’s Team Champions, with a Longest Drive #18 - low score of 117, were led by John Pat Hinnegan Taylor from Hunters Pointe Golf Club, from Craigowan with club president, Sandy Billyard, Golf & Country Ron Manteso and Paul Parent. Club Congratulations to the winning team! Other winners for the day were: One of the many gardens beside the cart paths. The champions from Hunter's Point Golf Club. No remnants of the flood were to be found. Bill C-388: A sign of the times? Part 1 of 2 by John W. Gravett Vice-President, O.G.S.A. Over the past six months most jurisdictions. It is important to issues and develop and implement turfgrass managers have observed the remember that presently, the stewardship initiatives. The OGSA will press coverage that Bill C-388 (federal provincial and federal governments now be represented by a unified voice private members bill) has received. actually govern the regulation of for the urban pest management From the municipal level to the pesticide use in Ontario. Special industry and therefore will be able to national stage, the idea of banning interest groups want the provincial demonstrate industry leadership pesticides in Canada used for cosmetic government to relinquish regulatory through self-regulation. The UPMC purposes only has gained the attention authority in order for these groups to will be promoting legislation that will of the federal government. better apply pressure to more improve the industry’s ability and The House of Commons Standing ‘venerable’ municipal governments. freedom to operate responsibly at the Committee on the environment has This type of lobbying has been municipal, provincial and federal been entertaining various presen­ occurring for quite some time in levels of government. The OGSA is tations on the cosmetic use of Waterloo, Toronto and Ottawa. anticipating stronger working pesticides since last November. The A two-pronged strategy has been relationships and alliances with others committee members, MP’s from across developed by the OGSA to ensure that with an interest in urban pest Canada, appear to have limited the turfgrass manager’s voice is being management, since our industry, up to knowledge on the products in this heard at all government levels. now, has had several ‘diluted’ sector and the scientific/regulatory Consultation with industry lobbyists organizations trying to represent the requirements that they must meet. The indicates that the more customized industry as a whole. Committee tabled recommendations and targeted our information can be, The second approach in our on cosmetic usage of pesticides at the the better chance our voice will be strategy is strictly a ‘one on one’ end of March and appeared to have heard and understood at the highest approach from each of our OGSA prompted the creation of Bill C-388, a levels of government. members. Key strategists have told us private members bill, that calls for the Firstly, the OGSA has become an that customized letters, presentations banning of pesticides in Canada used active member of the Crop Protection and other forms of communication for cosmetic purposes only. The Urban Institute of Canada (CPIC). The have a tremendous impact on MP’s Pest Management Council of Canada Urban Pest Management Council of and committees. Form or group letters presented to the Committee as well, Canada (UPMC) operates as a apparently have negligible effect on specifically targeting the benefits of committee of CPIC, and is an effective the decision-makers. The OGSA is pesticides in the urban environment, unified voice that is respected at both recommending to ALL members that including golf courses. the federal and provincial levels. Our they individually voice their concerns Recent reports from industry alliance with this group will help to on the potential ban of pesticides used strategists returning from Ottawa ensure that the decision and policy on golf courses to their local MP and indicate, that Bill C-388 will probably makers on pesticide use in Canada are MPP If all our members took the time not come to fruition, however, some hearing us. The UPMC is a credible, to submit a letter outlining their views, in-roads on the part of anti-pesticide authoritative voice shaping public the impact would be quite substantial. special interest groups have occurred. opinion and policy on pest In the next issue of Green Is There is growing pressure being management issues in the urban Beautiful, we will outline some applied from special interest groups to environment, including on golf important information that should be government officials at the provincial courses. One of the benefits the OGSA included with your letter. As well, we and federal levels to give muni­ has with belonging to this group will will have an update on any further cipalities the authority to regulate the be the ability to mobilize and support developments with respect to Bill C- use of pesticides in their respective key stakeholders to manage major 388, or related matters. 1067 Beach Boulevard Hamilton, Ontario L8H 6Z9 Telephone 905-545-5363 Fax 905-545-2647 CAN-USA 1-800-263-8606 Express Dual Corrie Almack, P.Ag. & AngleMaster Reel Mower ALMACK & ASSOCIATES Tel: (905) 689-6174 Sharpeners Box 256, Carlisle, Ontario Fax: (905) 689-8522 LOR 1HO Email: C.AImack@sympatico.ca It's Time to Take a Closer Look at Hunter Golf Introducing Vista - With the Power of Real-World Visual Control Reality-Based Software with 3-D Animated Graphics Hunter Golf introduces Vista, the most advanced and powerful irrigation control system available today. Vista utilizes the precision of your irrigation consultant’s AutoCAD™ design to create realistic 3-D graphics that allow you to “drive” every fairway on your course, fine-tuning the system from a real-world golf cart perspective. Advanced yet easy to use, Vista features truly automated programming, real-time dynamic flow balancing and a familiar internet-style interface. Contact Century Rain Aid and take a closer look at the full range of innovative products from Hunter Golf. 1940 Diamond Street, San Marcos, California, USA 92069 Tel: 760-744-5240 • Fax: 760-744-7461 www.HunterGolf.com Authorized Hunter Golf Distributor With More Than 130 Branches Coast to Coast www.rainaid.com • email: rainaid@rainaid.com Call for a free Supplies Catalog or on-site consultation: 800-642-3706. Golf course highlight London Hunt & Country Club P.O. Box 28009 London, Ontario N6H 5E1, Canada COURSE PROFILE BY WHOM AND WHEN WAS THE COURSE REMODELLED? WHAT COUNTY IS YOUR CLUB LOCATED IN? Middlesex Rees Jones 1999 WHAT MAJOR IS YOUR CLUB PRIVATE, SEMI PRIVATE, PUBLIC, RESORT, TOURNAMENTS HELD? MUNICIPAL? • 1970 Canadian Private Open - winner, SIZE OF MEMBERSHIP? Kermit & Zarley 1900 • 1993 L.PG.A. NUMBER OF ROUNDS? (DuMaurier LONG RANGE PLANS 34,000 Classic) - winner, Brandie Burton WHAT LONG RANGE PLANS FOR RENOVATION DO YOU • 1999 R.C.G.A. Mid Amateur HAVE IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? TYPICAL OPENING AND CLOSING DATE? Other Events held April 1st through November 15th • Canadian Club Pro • Possible third nine. NAME OF SUPERINTENDENT? • Ontario Amateur • Maintenance building upgrade and Bob Pattinson • Dunhill Cup Senior Matches addition. HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN A (Canada, Great Britain, U.S.A.) • Total course cart path resurfacing, SUPERINTENDENT? WHAT IS THE SIZE OF YOUR MAINTENANCE SHOP? curbing and additional paths. 9 10,000 sq. ft. • Replacement of all wooden walls on ARE YOU CGCS OR MASTER SUPERINTENDENT.? WHAT TYPE OF IRRIGATION SYSTEM? course to Wiarton Cap Stone or No Toro Hydraulic Ledge Rock. LIST OTHER ACCOMPLISHMENTS (AUDUBON, BOARD Age: Toro OSMAC 1997 update SERVICE ETC.) WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE GREENS, TEES AND CHALLENGES • CGSA member for 30 years FAIRWAYS? • GCSAA member for 10 years Greens 200,000 sq. ft. ARE THERE ANY PARTICULAR CHALLENGES YOU FACE • GLAGS founding member Tees 110,000 sq. ft. WITH YOUR PROPERTY? • GCSAA Platinum Tee Club Member Fairways 27 Acres • Annual Thanksgiving Day Hunt on • Applied for membership of the WHAT IS YOUR PREDOMINANT GRASS? course. Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Poa / Bent Mixture • Operation of two trap and one skeet System of Canada shooting ranges during Winter HOW MANY USGA GREENS AND HOW MANY LOAM HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN AN O.G.S.A.. GREENS? months. MEMBER? 2 USGA greens and 18 Loam Greens 15 WHAT IS THE PREDOMINANT SOIL TYPE? SUCCESS STORIES HOW MANY YEAR ROUND STAFF? Sandy Loam 6 WHAT EQUIPMENT DO YOU HAVE IN INVENTORY? DO YOU HAVE ANY SUCCESS STORIES? HOW MANY SEASONAL STAFF? • 42 electric cart fleet • Personally been at the London Hunt 18 • 5 tractors Club since 1972.1 started working on HOW MANY MECHANICS AND ASSISTANTS • 4 trailers golf courses in 1956 and have enjoyed 1 Mechanic and 1 Assistant • 3 sprayers my life long association with the • 3 trap rakes game of golf. It has been a passion HOW MANY GARDENING STAFF? and source of enjoyment my whole • 10 utility vehicles 1 • 2 rotary mowers adult life. • 6 greens triplex • The long term relationship with the COURSE STATISTICS • 3 fairway mowers members and other management HOW MANY HOLES? • 2 sets of rollers staff has been personally rewarding 18 • 1 verti-drain and fulfilling. • 3 greens aerifiers WHAT IS THE YARDAGE FROM BACK TEES AND FORWARD TEES? • 4 leaf blowers • Miscellaneous - verticut etc. INNOVATIVE CULTURAL PRACTICES 7,216 yds and 5,269 yds • DTN Weather Centre WHAT TYPE OF INNOVATIVE CULTURAL PRACTICES WHAT IS THE SIZE AND LENGTH OF DRIVING RANGE • 1 Verti- drain HAVE YOU PERFORMED? AND RANGE TEE? 320 yds - Tee = 1 acre • The implementation of safety COURSE PROJECTS training for staff. HOW MANY BUNKERS? 66 WHAT PROJECTS HAVE YOU RECENTLY COMPLETED? • Development of a member focused Rees Jones Restoration and maintenance programme. HOW MANY PONDS, AND/OR HOW MANY TIMES DOES WATER COME INTO PLAY? Renovation: 66 bunkers, 36 tee decks, 6 Fwys., new Ohio 530 sand, re-contour 8 water features all fwys, completion of greens surround AREAS OF PARTICULAR CHALLENGE WHO WAS THE ORIGINAL ARCHITECT? H20 system all electric. Two new • Trying to keep soil greens dry, firm Robert Trent Jones Sr. practice green, chipping and bunker and fast. WHAT WAS THE YEAR OF ORIGINAL CONSTRUCTION? complexes, and the addition of 15 all • Maintenance of the severely sloped 1957 weather mats to range deck Jones Bunkers. How did you weather the storms? Royal Woodbine Golf Club by Robert D. Cowan Golf Course Superintendent hen people in the Toronto area reminisce about the big storm of Spring 2000, the two and half plus inches that fell Friday, May 12th and the resulting damage will come to mind. At Royal Woodbine Golf Club, that was only one of five storms this year that has flooded the course and closed us down for a total of 10 days. The first flood of the season occurred on the Easter long weekend. We were closed for two days. A lot of debris was scattered over the fairways and many bunkers were lined with silt. A few days later we had the course cleaned-up and we were back in business, like usual. The second flood of the season, on clean up. Paved cart paths were torn of sand, rail tie curbing and flowerbeds May 12th, was a big one. The damage out and left in the middle of fairways, were missing, and we lost large areas of from this storm wasn’t quite as easy to bunkers were scoured out and left void creek bank to erosion. The clean up began again. Cart paths were repaved, fairways were cleaned, and reconstruc­ tion of washed out bunkers began. Luckily, not all bunkers had been restored by the time we were flooded out on May 18th, and again on June 13th and June 25th. As each flood caused varying amounts of damage to the same areas, it soon became evident that if we were going to eliminate, or at least minimize damage caused by flooding, we would have to burm some areas, change the shape and size of some bunkers, or eliminate some bunkers altogether. Taking photographs at different stages of the flood was crucial in determining where we would have to raise areas and continued on page 13 continued from page 12 where the water would flow once we did. To date we have restored all but two bunkers and have come up with some design changes that should help us deal with flooding in the future. The costs associated with this year’s record rainfall can be measured in many different ways. The Pro Shop measures the costs in total number of rounds down and loss of revenues. The Green department can measure the costs of additional labour, seed, chemicals etc. Another cost sometimes overlooked is the cost of sinking staff morale. After the second flood and second clean up it became very evident that I would have to do something to keep the staff motivated. I have had a staff BBQ after each flood and have expected only essential overtime in our clean up know their hard work is appreciated goes During the ’98 and ’99 golf seasons I efforts. Cleaning up after each flood has a long way in ensuring they will be there wished for rain. I guess I’ll have to be a been hard work and letting the staff for you the next time you need them. little more selective on what I wish for. Markham Green Golf Club by Don Crymble Property Manager On May 13, 2000 there was severe flooding at Markham Green. Rain fall on May 11th was .75", May 12th .5" and an additional .75" early on May 13th, for a total of 2" over a 36 hour period. That is not an excessive amount of precipitation, however water levels were the highest on record. I had never seen the Rouge River so high. The accompanying photos show that water levels were 8-9 feet above the normal flow. There has been a great deal of urban development higher up continued on page 14 continued from page 13 the watershed and I hope that Markham Green will not have to foot the bill for poor watershed management. The course was closed from Saturday, May 13th until Thursday, May 18th, for clean up. Debris was removed with organic material disposed of in our organic waste area, and man made litter was separated and disposed of in the garbage bins. Large trees were cut up and removed from the fairways, and the fresh water clams which washed up on the fairways were tossed back into the river. All, or portions, on greens 6, 7 and 8 had been submerged and had a layer of silt on them which had to be removed. The pro-shop assisted in the cleanup and I can assure you that they enjoyed standing on the greens, washing them off for a day and a half. Sand had been washed out of a number of bunkers and was cleaned up off the grass. We gave a neighbour, down stream, a few green fees for returning half a dozen trap rakes. Additional sand was added to the bunkers by June 8th. The Rouge river is an excellent habitat for many life forms. In early May, snapping turtles were seen mating in the river. These reptiles are about 3 feet in diameter. Alas, we could find no turtles after the flooding. On June 11th one turtle was again spotted on Markahm Green property. I guess these are homing turtles. They will once again lay their eggs on the river banks and in our traps and wherever they wish. continued on page 15 continued from page 14 Markland Wood Country Club by Mark Prieur Second Assistant Saturday May 13th, 2000 is a day that may very well be remembered as one of the worst storms in recent history. Newspapers had reported that it was one of the worst storms in Central Ontario since 1987; there were pictures of people stranded on the Don Valley Parkway because it was too flooded to pass. Power outages over most of the region made most of the evening uncomfortable for the thousands without power. Mother Nature had indeed put on one of the best light shows in recent memory. When it was all said and done, sixty millimeters of rain had fallen that night. the armour stone retaining walls in back but the rest of the course was a Markland Wood Country Club is some places. This was not the worst of disaster as well. located in the Etobicoke Creek that the damage though. Maintaining the golf course serves as the border for the cities of During the winter the Region of became of minimal importance, as an Etobicoke and Mississauga. Etobicoke Peel had recently installed a seven-foot emergency action plan had to be Creek is the flood plain that is sewer main through holes 8, 9, 11 and initiated. The Back Shop staff was primarily responsible for draining our driving range. The restorations relegated to the maintenance staff those two cities. Those sixty were going smoothly until the rains during the five day course closure and millimeters of rain translated into a came. Sunday May 14th is one of those helped out considerably. Seniors golf rise in the Creek that had not been days where you wish you were in some day (every Tuesday) was rescheduled seen since Hurricane Hazel in 1954. other profession; what damage the to Seniors help-pick-rocks-off-the- All but two fairways were under water water had hid for a day could now be fairway day. There were some mem­ that night and following day. A seen. Rough estimates of 100 skids of bers in their 80’s raking rocks off combination of silt and shale was sod and 300 truckloads of topsoil were fairways. It was a very good feeling to spread over numerous greens, tees washed away on the ninth hole alone. have the membership helping out. and fairways. A portion of our 12th Creek bank plantings and newly In addition, it was clear that the silt bridge was removed. Creek bank planted trees and shrubs were also and stone was smothering the erosion occurred seven feet behind lost. Not only were all restorations set bentgrass. Silt deposits on the bent were washed away using hoses. Surpri­ singly, greens were mowed 5 times the first week and they suffered minimal setback. The shale on the fairways was removed using a skid steer loader; smaller pieces were picked by hand. During the cleanup there was no loss of any bentgrass. Some of the rough had to be sacrificed in order to restore other in-play areas. The severity of the bunker damage was classified into two categories: partially contaminated and completely demolished. The first of the two required the removal of the silt contaminates, mostly with rakes and shovels; the second situation demanded a complete rebuild, drainpipe and all. The bunkers took almost a month and required 120 tons of sand to bring them up to snuff. continued on page 16 continued from page 15 The restoration work completed to date by the contractors had to be redone, as stipulated in the contract. They wasted no time in picking up where they had left off in the project. Surrounding the project with experienced and knowledgeable contractors paid huge dividends. Many obstacles had to be overcome during the flood cleanup. Overtime was a regular occurrence and the staff was tested to their limits and beyond. If there is a lesson to be learned it would be that patience, perseverance and a positive mental attitude will overcome all. PRECIPITATION IN ONTARIO REGION Measured at Pearson International Airport Provided by Ministry of the Environment empty table cell Average Year 2000 May 65.8 Ml 124.4 Ml June 68.9 Ml 169.2 Ml Congratulations LIBRARY DONATION Tom Yates PROGRAM The following books Peggy Nagle, O.T.S. Manager have been added to the has advised us that Tom Yates, special Turf Section of Superintendent at Castlemore the University of Golf 8c Country Club, was the Guelph Library tnrough lucky winner of the Evaluation the generosity of two of our members. Our draw from the 2000 Ontario thanks to Marie Thorne Turf Symposium. As a result of and Steve Mann. participating in the telephone evaluation of the OTS, Tom’s name was put into a draw in BOOK TITLE AUTHOR DONATED BY which he won a free full Driving the Green: symposium pass to the Ontario The Making of a Golf Course John Strawn Marie Thorne Turf Symposium 2001. from Novartis Feedback from the Golf Course Tree Management Sharon Lily Steve Mann superintendents help the from Bartlett organizers to improve the Arborist’s Tree Service education and trade show experience for you. Hard-wired Control Radio Control Radio Control Hard-wired Control You select the method of irrigation control... Only can provide you with both options Total Solutions by TURF CARE For more information, contact the Irrigation Division at 1-800-561-1432 A fishy story by Michael Allen Pine Needle Mulch Member of Bay of Quinte Country Club Superior Bedding Material This fishy golf All natural story, was forwarded High in nitrogen to us by Peter Lucas, Insect and rodent free Superintendent at Bay of Quinte CC. It Provide erosion protection demonstrates that Retains moisture in the soil there are members Fine root frost protector who care about the entire property and Beautiful auburn colour its contents instead ofjust the tees, fairways and greens. Baled, not bagged I was playing my course the other night (holes 1 & 2) and noticed a Carp in the ditch on #1 where the dam Each bale covers 50 sq. ft. at a 3" depth is. He was trying to get over the dam into the pond. Since I figured that he couldn’t have gotten through our water system, I deduced that he came from the #3 RR #4 Fergus, ON N1M2W5 pond, somehow. tel: (519) 843-2854 Well, what am I suppose to do now... without a fax: (519) 767-3802 helping hand, his chances didn’t look good. After a www.eisenstone.com careful review of the options, and without my handy email: info@eisenstone.com fishing net or cell phone, I felt that there was only one alternative. I had to go in after him. Kneeling down on the bank, with my trusty big red towel in hand (I didn’t Nature's Perfect Groundcover want the situation to get too fishy) I attempted the rescue. Unfortunately, the fish didn’t understand my good intentions, but after much struggle, and The Scotts Company absorbing a significant amount of water, etc. in my new pants, we reached an agreement that he should let me carry him to his old home. So now he is swimming happily back in the pond that both he and I love so Dave Dick Jeff McMaster much. No matter how I feel walking by those holes, Turfgrass Specialist Turfgrass Specialist there will always be something to make it a little 1864 Bowler Drive 39 Monte Vista Trail brighter. (P.S. - should a shot stray into the pond, I Brampton, Ont. L6Z 2J7 Pickering, Ont. L1V 3E4 hope he remembers me). Fax & Phone 905-846-3319 Fax & Phone 905-839-6526 Scotts Head Office 1-800-543-0006 Experience.. .That’s the Braemar Difference. For your FREE estimates please call Rick Brenzil, Harold Bundy or Jack Brenzil • STORAGE FACILITIES • MAINTENANCE BUILDINGS •WAREHOUSES WOOD & STEEL STRUCTURES • NEW BUILDINGS • ADDITIONS • RENOVATIONS RRI York Road, Ontario N0A IR0 Telephone: (905) 772- 3351 • Fax: (905) 772- 3422 •Toll Free: 1-800-215 -1996 • Email: rbrenzil@braemarbldg.com • Website: www.braemarbldg.com "Supers" - where do they hide their capes? by Scott Atkinson President NGCOA Canada Article reprinted from Golf Business Canada - Spring 2000 It’s 5 a.m. Do you know which hat going to get around to that long- make and so many environmental your superintendent is wearing today? delayed renovation project, why they demands that will be satisfied by the He or she could be dealing with the give us a look that would kill you and decision they make on a daily basis. latest disease, (they sure have some your entire family two generations into We won’t even start discussing the peculiar sounding names for them!) or the future. weather or the latest pest invasion or the overnight irrigation breach that has There is no question that the the newest turf disease. just flooded #3 and #7 fairways? Or are superintendent’s job and responsi­ All other things aside, these people they going toe-to-toe with pro shop staff bilities have changed dramatically over are constantly under the microscope because they have said “No!” to the past few years. The typical super’s (in more ways than one) maybe even powercarts that day? Or has half of the shop 25 years ago had the most basic of sometimes taken a bit for granted. But mower crew phoned in with the 26oz. equipment. Today they are packed with let’s face it, they are in charge of the flu Saturday morning? The day of the the latest and greatest gizmos, all which most scrutinised part of our business, most important tourney of the year! have the most uncanny way of breaking the aesthetics of the golf course. It It is now 2 P.M. and your super has down at the most inopportune time. really amazes me that the longest just heard that the golfers are saying Thanks to television and the standing key personnel on the staff are that half the sand traps are too firm ‘Masters’, the golfer’s expectations of the superintendents. and that half are too soft. Ten have said the conditions of the golf course are so So it might be a good idea if we all the greens are too firm, another seven high and keep escalating, that drop what we’re doing and amble over don’t think they’re hard enough. The superintendents have no choice but to to our superintendent and give them a clean-up crew have mixed up the be continually educating themselves well-deserved pat on the back. proximity markers on all the greens. through discussion with other The evolution continues! From So is it any wonder then, when we superintendents, industry experts, the greenskeeper to superintendent to approach them at 2:30 P.M. that very latest periodicals, as well as educational superman to Wonderwoman! Where day and casually ask when they are seminars. They have so many choices to do they hide their capes? WE SOLVE EVEN THE TOUGHEST IRRIGATION PROBLEMS Ontario Distributor of Vanden Bussche Irrigation Rain Bird Products & Equipment Limited MILTON 1-800-263-4112 (905)875-4545 FAX: (905) 878-4501 E-MAIL: vbi@stn.net Research & development Biology and control of dollar occurrence and the rate of progress of around 15°C. It comes out from the spot this disease. Dollar spot fungus will thatch on to wet leaf surfaces to cause start growing at 15°C, with its optimal the initial infection. Spread of dollar by Pam Charbonneau, Turfgrass Specialist, growth between 21 °C and 27°C, spot occurs when diseased grass tissue Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and combined with relative humidity is in close proximity to healthy leaves. Rural Affairs and greater than 85% and heavy dew at The disease is transported from Tom Hsiang, night. Dollar spot is more prevalent on diseased to non-diseased turf by grass Department of Environmental Biology, turf which has been grown under a low clipping, on golf shoes, golf carts and University of Guelph nitrogen fertility regime. maintenance equipment. This disease attacks the foliage and the crowns. Symptoms Roots and rhizomes are not infected. Dollar spot is the most prevalent Dollar spots start out on annual There are no spores produced by disease of turfgrass in North America, bluegrass and creeping bentgrass with dollar spot. particularly on highly maintained golf a few leaves adjacent to one another course putting greens and closely turning brown. After a couple of days Cultural controls mown fairways. In Canada, the these areas take on a bleached Cultural controls can be very distribution of dollar spot is more appearance, creating spots that have an effective for managing this disease. As limited, and it is most severe in the average diameter of 3 cm. These spots with most fungi, limiting the amount Great Lakes Region. It can be found in rarely expand, but they can coalesce to and duration of leaf wetness can greatly the Maritimes, Prairies and the West form larger dead patches (Figure 1). reduce the occurrence of this disease. Coast, but it is much less of a problem On higher mown turf the individual Drag a hose or pole the turf in the early there. Fortunately for all golf course leaf lesions can be seen. They are morning to reduce the duration of leaf superintendents, it can be managed hourglass in shape, with a dark top and wetness. Other ways of encouraging the without too much difficulty. bottom margin and a straw coloured dew to dry are: encourage air Understanding dollar spot biology is centre cross-secting the leaf blade movement by pruning out the the key to controlling this disease. (Figure 2). The symptoms on longer understory of trees surrounding greens grass appear as irregularly shaped and along fairways; reducing shade so The pathogen patches with blighted turf in amongst that early morning sunlight hits the The pathogen causing dollar spot is healthy turf. greens; mowing turf in the early currently classified as Sclerotinia During periods of warm days and morning to displace the dew or homoeocarpa. Experts on classifying nights coupled with high humidity, avoiding evening watering. fungi now consider it to be a species of dense, aerial mycelium can be found Dollar spot can also be controlled Lanzia or Moellerodiscus. Turf text books on the affected turf blades in the early by growing turf with adequate still refer to the disease by the scientific morning (Figure 3). When this occurs, nitrogen nutrition. Turf which is low name Sclerotinia homoeocarpa. Dollar this disease is sometimes misdiagnosed in nitrogen is more susceptible to spot causes disease on all cool season as Pythium blight. infection by the dollar spot fungus turfgrass species. On a golf course, we and is much slower to recover from are mainly concerned with dollar spot Life Cycle dollar spot injury. It is important on annual bluegrass and creeping Dollar spot is thought to overwinter however, to maintain a balanced bentgrass. Dollar spot occurs during as sclerotial flakes on the edges of nitrogen status in the turfgrass plant. the summer and early fall. dollar spot lesions. These are very Over-fertilization with nitrogen can hard to see. There is also a suggestion encourage other diseases. Conditions favouring the disease that it survives as dormant mycelium As with every turfgrass disease, in the crowns of infected turf plants. environmental conditions affect the Mycelial growth starts at temperatures continued on page 21 continued from page 20 Fungicide resistance Resistant cultivars Dollar spot has Cultivars of creeping bentgrass vary a long history of in their susceptibility to dollar spot. developing L-93, A-l, Providence and Pennlinks resistance to have shown superior tolerance to fungicides (Walsh dollar spot (Hurley, 1999). Cultivars et al., 1999). The which have been shown to be the most most recent report susceptible to dollar spot are Crenshaw, of resistance was 18th Green and Century (Hurley, to the family of 1999). Putter, Emerald, Forbes 89-12 demethylation and SR1020 were also reported to be inhibitor (DMI) the most susceptible bentgrass cultivars fungicides. based on trial conducted at the Propiconazole, University of Guelph (Hsiang and Canada’s first DMI Charbonneau, 1994). By choosing fungicide was Thorne at your side, a Penn some of the newer cultivars that are less registered for use in 1994. To date, State Worldcampus susceptible to dollar spot, fungicide there has only been one report of an perspective treatments to manage dollar spot, isolate of dollar spot with reduced by R. Marie Thorne especially on fairways, can be reduced. sensitivity to propiconazole (Hsiang et al., 1997). This isolate occurred near Chemical control the border with the United States and If you have Internet access and a Fungicides containing one or more it may have been transported into strong desire to further your formal of the following active ingredients are Canada from a golf course across the turfgrass education, the Penn State registered for control of dollar spot: border. To insure that dollar spot does Worldcampus Turf Management chlorothalonil, iprodione, benomyl, not become resistant to this new class Certificate Program, could be the right anilazine, propiconazole, thiophanate- of fungicides, it is important to either choice for you. It is no surprise that methyl, and thiram. Consult provincial tank mix DMI fungicides with a broad this world-renowned leader in the turf publications and product labels for spectrum fungicide or to alternate DMI fungicides with fungicides from industry is on the leading edge of registered uses and recommended rates. other families. Internet based long distance Biological control educational programs. Dr. Al Turgeon Several commercially available Literature cited was working on this, long before the organic fertilizers have shown Hurley, R. 1999. Fungicide needs vary Internet came into vogue. I first suppression of the dollar spot fungus among top new bentgrass cultivars. learned of this educational (Liu et al., 1995; Nelson and Craft, Golf course Management. 67(2):54- opportunity while surfing around for 1991), although the exact mechanism of 57. some fungicide technical information. suppression is not clearly understood. Hsiang, T. and P. Charbonneau. 1994. I happened to visit the Penn State site Managing dollar spot disease. and voila, there was my opportunity to Greenmaster. 28 (5): 10-11. satisfy my innate desire to acquire Hsiang. T, L. Yang, and W. Barton. formal education from Penn State 1997. Baseline sensitivity and cross­ University, without having to physically resistance to demethylation be there. So I happily delved into the inhibiting fungicides in Ontario details and this is how it works? In isolates of Sclerotinia homoeocarpa. order to obtain a Worldcampus Eur.J. Plant Pathol. 103:409-416. Turfgrass undergraduate Certificate, SEEDS Liu, L.X., T. Hsiang, K. Carey and J.L. Eggens. 1995. Microbial populations and suppression of dollar spot 15-16 credits must be attained. The program courses progress from fundamental concepts and basic terms For All Your disease in creeping bentgrass with in turf management, to more inorganic and organic amendments. advanced concepts and a case study Golf Course Needs! Plant Dis. 79:144-147. course that explores creative solutions Nelson, E.B. and C.M. Craft. 1991. to turfgrass management issues. Turf seed, Pesticides, Nutrite Fertilizers Suppression of dollar spot with top­ and Bayco Golf Accessories Coursework consists of a series of dressings amended with composts lessons, labs, essay questions, quizzes P.O. Box 7, Waterloo, Ont. N2J 3Z6 and organic fertilizers. Biol. Cult. and exams. Interaction with faculty Tel: (519) 886'0557 Fax: (519) 886-0605 Tests Control Plant Dis.6:93. Walsh, B., S.S. Ikeda and GJ. Boland. and the class is essential. 1-800-465-5849 Email: seeds@oscseeds.com This program has a number of 1999. Biology and management of dollar spot (Sclerotinia homoeocarpa): benefits: David Schmelefske an important disease of turfgrass. 1) The program content reminds us of A. Kent McDonald some of the turf management basics HortScience 34(1):13-21. Trevor Hunter continued on page 22 continued from page 21 likelihood, gain momentum as the time new residential construction (pre­ we may have forgotten over the and technology move on. If you wish to treat) until December 31, 2005. This years, yet it can also reinforce what get further details, surf to date may be extended, however, based we already know. It introduces http://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/ on the results of an exposure study participants to new concepts in You’ll be amazed that a world class specific to this application. Retail sale turfgrass management with a very turf educational program is a mere of chlorpyrifos products in the U.S. will practical and applied orientation. mouse click away. be allowed until December 31, 2001. 2) It expands your professional We would like to announce that Marie, Chlorpyrifos will remain available for network. The class size can range previously with Scotts Canada Ltd., is now various U.S. nonresidential uses such as from 20 plus participants. The the Sr Turf Specialist for Novartis at 140 golf courses and ornamental nurseries majority of my classmates are golf Research Lane, Research Park, University of as well as for all U.S. crop uses except superintendents and assistants from Guelph, ON N1G 4Z3. Novartis has tomatoes. the United States. We have really recently acquired the Pro Turf business from The agreement includes interesting turf related chat which is Scotts Canada Ltd., who have decided to refinements in agricultural posted on electronic bulletin boards focus exclusively on its consumer business. applications that result in a reduction within the course home pages. Each of chlorpyrifos residues in the U.S. on student is assigned a Discussion apples and grapes. This agreement is group; and the banter back and specific to the U.S. sale and use of forth can be very lively and Agency action chlorpyrifos. informative. This new age Dursban remains labeled for golf course Mr. Alan Rock, Federal Minister of communication with golf applications Environment announced in Ottawa superintendents and assistants has Dow AgroSciences LLC has that the Liberal government will be been particularly interesting. I have announced an agreement with the U.S. evaluating the use of Dursban in learned a lot through our EPA that will allow the continued use of Canada. No official announcement “conversations”. I also know that I Dursban insecticide (chlorpyrifos) on has been made. have forged some career long golf courses. Chlorpyrifos products relationships. Penn State hosts a were among the first scrutinized under Worldcampus reception during the new standards resulting from the Cornell University Announces that GCSAA conference which presents a passage of the Food Quality Protection in addition to CUTT, their quarterly wonderful opportunity to meet your Act of 1996 (FQPA). newsletter, their latest addition, classmates face to face. The agreement includes a voluntary ShortCUTT, keeps you updated on 3) Interaction with the faculty is superb a weekly basis, by e-mail or fax cancellation of most in-and-around- (your choice). Every Monday by and having access to their the-home uses of chlorpyrifos in the noon, during the growing season, knowledge and Penn State resources U.S., including use of the product as a ShortCUTT informs you of weather is a huge benefit. It’s comforting to full-barrier termiticide treatment in conditions, regional pest obser­ know that your access to the existing residential structures (post­ vations and recommendations based on the latest research from academic world is a mere phone call construction). Use of products affected nationl experts. or email away. by this agreement will be allowed until If you would like more information 4) You can log in to course materials existing stocks are depleted. contact: from anywhere, at any time. This was Use of chlorpyrifos in the U.S. as a Evie Gussack at (607) 257-8481 particularly beneficial for those of us termiticide for spot and local treatment that travel extensively. Whether I was will be allowed until December 31, or eg21@cornell.edu. at BIGGA, GCSAA or CGSA 2002. Chlorpyrifos will remain available conferences, I was able to keep up in the U.S. for use as a termiticide for with my studies and the discussions among my classmates. I am now into the second course in RR1 Thornton, ON the program. If you choose to follow LOL 2N0 this path, make a commitment to Tel: (705) 458-2851 yourself that you will allocate time to Fax: (705) 458-2849 devote to the program everyday. It is Toll Free: 1-800-794-9664 e-mail: gdol@dolturfrestoration.on.ca easy to fall behind due to the volume of study. Self discipline is a prerequisite •Tile Drainage • Slit Drainage •Top Dressing • Overseeding •SportGrass™ for taking this program. You must be prepared to log on everyday, it’s that • Gravel Band Drainage •Sodding • Fine Grading • Verti Drain Deep Tine Aeration “Tile drainage installation was clean, quick and very “Drainage was installed by an organization with quality & simple .The old adage of getting out efficient”— Dan Mu/roy superintendent, Kleinburg Golf Club service being the No. 1 priority”— Kevin Bailie, general what you put in really applies here. Member S.T.A., O.R.F.A., O.G.S.A. manager, Launch (The New Golf Game) The concept of Internet based SPORTS TURF SPECIALISTS learning is in its infancy, and will, in all O.G.S.A. / G.T.I. spring field day by Dean Baker O.G.S.A. Golf Event Director After almost ten years of absence, the O.G.S.A. officially kicked off the millenium with the return of the Spring Field Day at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Many will remember the old days of going to the Cambridge Research Station to see what was new in turf... and occasionally a little golf would be played as well. This year’s activities were certainly not far off the past. Although the sponsoring participation of Superintendents was an outstanding down for our first comeback to Guelph, B.B.Q. lunch complete the quality of participants and the with ice cream bars. We’d like to take missed anyone, I apologize. This was feedback to the G.T.I. was terrific. For this opportunity to thank those truly a team effort; thanks for a job many people, it was the first time to the sponsors, without whom this day would well done! G.T.I. The University of Guelph faculty not have been possible. did their best to entertain us all, right Along with our sponsors, we would The afternoon was spent with the down to a “YOU DON’T KNOW JACK” like to thank the many volunteers who Decorso family, who hosted the golf walking tour of the Institute led by, helped in the running of this event: tournament at the Victoria Park Golf none other than, Dr. Jack Eggens. Jack Eggens for leading us on the Club East, just down the street from the Our Associate members were out in ‘You Don’t Know Jack” Research Walk; G.T.I. The Decorso’s are no strangers great numbers and helped by Ken Carey, Tom to hosting great tournaments along Hsiang , Dave with an abundance of some of the most Hume and Gary delicious food ever served. The Parkin for sharing following is a list of the lucky winners: SPRING FIELD DAY their research ex­ pertise with us; Low Gross: 1st Trevor Hunter SPONSORS Pam Charbon­ neau, Turfgrass 2nd 3rd Robbie Robinson Bruce Burger Allturf Limited Specialist and 4th Paul Scenna Marilyn Dykstra, 5th Rob Davis Burnside Golf Services Pest Diagnostic Low Net Clinic, who were 1st Chris Dew Chipco Professional Products on hand to pro­ 2nd Tami Packham G.C. Duke Equipment Ltd. vide advice and 3rd Michael Ross information; 4th Jason D’Andrea Gordon Bannerman Limited Norm McCollum 5th Sean Folley and his crew for Closest to the Hole # 6 Maple Farm Supply their diligent work Colin Nisbet New-Tech Turf Products Ltd. in maintaining the Closest to the Hole #15 G.T.I. grounds; Tom Brain Nu-Gro Corporation Erica Gunn for Longest Drive #10 helping out with Trevor Hunter Plant Products Co. Ltd. the registration The Clayton Switzer Trophy was table; awarded to Chris Dew for the low net Podolinsky Equipment Ltd. Jennifer score. Rittenhouse Sprayers Antoniak for The day ended with everyone having manning the Mer­ a great day golfing and a better Turf Care Products Canada chandise Booth understanding of what is happening at (sales hit a high the University of Guelph and the G.T.I. United Horticultural Supply that day); and to Under the guidance of G.T.I. Director, Brian Haum Rob Witherspoon, the research work Vanden Bussche Irrigation and Greig Barker, conducted there is a direct feedback Zander Sod Co. Limited for running the from industry and the University of putting compe­ Guelph. The G.T.I. hosts a number of tition. If I have continued on page 24 continued from page 23 who attended this year s event were the support from each other. Every field days throughout the summer and surprised at the lack of participation member of the O.G.S.A. should attendance is crucial because of the from fellow Superintendents. It is the consider having an active roll in the feedback it generates. The Spring Field hope of the O.G.S.A. through the future of not only their industry, but Day is an excellent opportunity for Spring Field Day to help re-kindle our also the G.T.I. After all, the future Superintendents not only to see what is relationship with the G.T.I. and the success of our industry, will be based on being done in research, but to also give University of Guelph. The future of our the education of our up and coming critical feedback to the G.T.I. Many industry, as well as the G.T.I relies on turf managers. So get involved! Turf or consequences The reunion by Doug Breen, Superintendent fertilizers so good, Calerin Golf Club Last weekend we put our name was the reunion marking the ten- year anniversary of on them. the day I got my degree from Guelph, which I might add, is a powerful indictment of the entire higher education system in Ontario. It was good to see everyone, but it was quite shocking how old everyone else had become. The guys are generally putting on Performance and quality is one thing, weight and growing hair everywhere but on the tops of their genuine value for our customers is another. heads, and the classmates that have had babies are exhibiting Genuine value comes only when you're able pot bellies, big butts, and saggy breasts (although their wives still looked pretty good). to gather the best components on the market, It was interesting to note that people whose primary skill ten combine them in a way for the best possible years ago was carrying nine beers and a plate of nachos, are performance, then deliver that combination equally adept at balancing two kids, a milk bottle, a diaper bag, in the best possible manner. three drinking boxes and a pack-n-play. But what was more disturbing than the physical ravages of a decade on our once nubile bodies, was the effect of ten years of That's United Horticultural Supply and mortgages, kids, car payments, and real jobs on our once UHS Signature Brand Fertilizers? We've done adventuresome mind sets. Spontaneity used to be driving to all the work so you get the results you're after. Florida on a Thursday night to settle an argument with a waitress You have our name on it. in the Keg about how many hours it takes to get to Orlando. Now, spontaneity is buying the Fudge Crackle ice cream instead Contact your local UHS representative of the $1.99 for a 20 litre pail brand. One of the guys at the for more information. reunion, (O.K, it was me) once convinced a girl that his father owned the Cutten Club. Now I can’t even convince my wife that Eastern Canada (800) 328-4678 I’m not eating chicken wings at Hooters every time I tell her that Western Canada (888) 273-4330 there’s a meeting after work. Even when there is a meeting. www.uhsonline.com The most telling change; however, was the fact that when given the option to stay in a hotel or camp out in tents, most UHS Signature Brand Fertilizers are a product of United Horticultural Supply people took the third option and went home. Of those who stayed, the vast majority went the hotel route, one guy brought a motor home which was essentially Buckingham Palace with wheels and a Winnebago logo on it, and only a handful of us actually slept in tents. This from a group of people who to celebrate our graduation went white water rafting and slept in trees, on rocks, and in campfires. Of course it turned out to be quite poor planning on my part, as the weekend in question dumped seven inches of rain on the tent in about four hours; and at the same time the irrigation system at Calerin went down - and the course was drying up - and you guessed it; it didn’t rain there. I know I shouldn’t complain about my course dehydrating while most of yours are half submerged, and the ball washers sticking out of water are being used by fishing trawlers as marker buoys; but there is only one advantage to working on a course which is a good gravel pit with a 1/4 inch of soil on it, and this is my one year in 50 to gloat. Anyhow, the rain ended the reunion early, I had to take down the tent in the pouring rain, and I drove home, with the windshield wipers flapping; wet, tired, and feeling very old as I tried to explain to the staffer on the cell phone how to fix the irrigation back at the golf course. So much for my first day off in months - I can hardly wait for my 20-year reunion. Looking back Fifteen years ago today by Barry Endicott, Nobleton Lakes Golf Club he board of directors of the OGSA Price both left the business to start hosted by Bill Hynde. The team of in 1985 was: Hugh Kirkpatrick, different landscaping companies. Shorty Jenkins, John Arends and Tom Westmount (president), Barry The GCSAA Conference was held in Murphy emerged as the winning rink. Endicott, Caledon (vice), Robert Washington on February 5-13. Barry The Western Ontario Golf Kennedy, Garden City, Neil Acton, Endicott received an award for “Green Is Superintendents held an early meeting Brooklea, Bill Fach, Essex, Gordon Beautiful”. Al Draper was a session at Beechwoood Golf Club in Niagara Nimmo, Sarnia, Scott Dodson, chairman and Blake McMaster, Neil on April 25th. Gross winners were Tom Chedoke, Thom Charters, Islington, Acton and Ron Heesen were all Bell, Dave Nichols and Bill Glashen. Shorty Jenkins, Bay of Quinte, Gord speakers. The conference was attended The OTRF Fundraising Tournament Witteveen, Board of Trade, Tom by over 50 Canadian superintendents. was held at the National on August Simpson, Newcastle and Al Draper, The CGSA Conference and Show 12th with $9,700 being raised. Bill Greenhills (past pres.). Barry Endicott was held in Winnipeg in March. Blake Glashen had the best score with a fine was newsletter editor with Neil Acton McMaster was elected as the 17th 79. Ken Wright was the superintendent and Ron Heesen as assistants. president at the conference. Bill Hynde host and Gord Witteveen hosted the “Green Is Beautiful” won one of the was chosen as the Superintendent of barbecue back at the Board of Trade. top ten best newsletters awards in the year Score Magazine Award winner. The McClumpha Tournament was Washington at the CGSAA Conference The Georgian Bay Superintendents held at the Thornhill Country Club in February. At that time, Barry were in full swing with meetings at hosted by Dave Gourlay Sr. The winner Endicott stepped aside as editor and Deerhurst, Ed Farnsworth, Borden, of the George Drew trophy was Curly Neil Acton was appointed as the new Ray Richards, Royal Downs, Stew Endicott with a score of 90. Low score editor. Jackie Dermott retired as Picken, Horseshoe Valley, John for the day was Bruce Burger with a secretary of the OGSA and the new Hughes, Barrie, Ed Dodda, Brooklea, score of 74. secretary was Cindi Charters. Neil Acton and Midland, Alex LaBelle. New members: Brian McCann (A), An OGSA/Borders Cities meeting was Allandale, David Lauterbach (E), Jim held at the Dominion Golf Club on Morrison Ltd., David Barnes (B), April 10th hosted by Dan Uzelac. The St. Clair Parkway, Mike Post (B), Canadian team of Bill Fach, Bob SPECIALIZING IN PESTICIDE EDUCATION & SERVICE TECHNOLOGY Strathroy, Wayne Studds (E), Llewelln Heron, Thom Charters and Pat presents Security, David Schmelefske (F), Merry Hebert, all with scores of 81, beat out LAND Hill, Don McFaul (A), Glen Abbey, the Americans by 6 shots. EXTERMINATOR Brian Guthro (F), Board of Trade, The Spring Field Day was held at (LANDSCAPE CATEGORY) Charles Eberle (A), Ridgetown, John the Cutten Club on June 19th. This was PESTICIDE CERTIFICATION COURSES Taylor (A), Twenty Valley, Ken Graham the first time in fifteen years that this NORTH YORK (F), Brampton, Dan Lavis (A), tournament was not held at the Galt November 20 - 24, 2000 Kleinburg, Walter Dudnick (B), Country Club. Richard Creed was the January 22 - 26, 2001 Dalewood, Gerald Sterling (A), host superintendent. The low gross February 19 - 23, 2001 Bluewater, Scott Wilson (E), Rochester winners were Greg Aljoe, Merry Hill March 12 - 16,2001 Midland Chemicals, Colin Nesbit (A), 74, Blake McMaster, Brampton 75, Ted March 26 - 30, 2001 Westview, George Forest (A), Pike Ellis, Greenwood 76, Bruce Vollet, April 9 - 13,2001 Lake, Paul Gillen (E), Holland Conestoga 76 and Joe Kenny, May 7 - 11,2001 Equipment and Doug Black (B), Oaklands 76. MILTON Beaverdale. The President, Greens chairman December 4 - 8, 2000 On the move: Paul Scenna moved and Superintendent tournament was April 2 - 6, 2001 on to Burlington Golf Club and Bruce held at the Board of Trade with Gord LONDON Burger left Dalewood to take Paul’s old Witteveen as host. The winning team March 19 -23,2001 position at the Galt Country Club. Tim was from the Summit Golf Club, Doug Sherlock left Caledon, as assistant, and Hoskins. The Superintendent/Pro OTTAWA went to Cornwall and Greg O’Heron tournament was held at Greenhills Golf March 5 - 9, 2001 Gov't exam held on Monday following each course left the Board of Trade, as an assistant, Club hosted by Al Draper. Top team Instructor: Paul G. Pilley, B.Sc.. M. P. M. and went to Markland Wood as winners were from Whitevale G. C., superintendent. Greg Aljoe moved Warren Vout 157, Westmount, Hugh from Merry Hill to Foxwood and Sid Kirkpatrick 160 and Oakville, George For more information and a brochure contact: Witteveen left Vaughan Valley and Garner 160. P.O. Box 1021 Lindsay, Ontario K9V 5N4 started construction at Lock Marsh There was an OGSA curling meeting E-mail: pgp_pest@lindsaycomp.on.ca Golf Club. Steve Miller and Randy held at St. Georges on March 12th Tel: (705) 324-PEST (7378) Fax: (705) 324-9729 TURF CARE Others SHAKE, RATTLE AND ROLL. WE PREFER THE TWIST. Introducing the new Toro Workman® 1100 and 2100. Built around Toro’s revolutionary Active In-Frame suspension, these powerful utility vehicles literally twist over your terrain to provide incredible traction, coupled with an unequaled smooth and stable ride. Designed with a large operator area, multiple integrated storage compartments and an easily customized bed, the Workman can readily be configured to meet your exact needs. 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