Green is February 2000 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association The Ontario Turf Symposium Something's fishy at Donalda Easy birdies Five Floating 22" Decks, One Superior Cut. Test Drive The Ransomes AR 250 Rotary Mower See how five independent 22" cutting decks float over uneven terrain without scalping. Compare the precision cut and extra mulching efficiency of exclusive twin-blade “Envirodeck” technology. Experience how easy operation and fast, no-tools cutting height adjustment let you cover more ground, more efficiently. Heavy-duty construction plus power to spare from a big 38-hp Kubota diesel engine make the AR 250 your answer for any mowing challenge. A test drive will prove it. For a cut above the rest, come in or call today. 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 THE ONTARIO TURF SYMPOSIUM ........................ 9 Beautiful SOMETHING'S FISHY ATDONALDA .......................12 The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association EASY BIRDIES.............................................................. 14 11th Annual OSC / Nutrite seminar.................................................. 6 Health and safety .................................................................................. 5 President's message ............................................................................. 4 Tip of the month......................................................................................16 Mechanic's corner................................................................................... 16 Announcements....................................................................................... 19 Looking back ...................................................................... 23 COVER PICTURE Fore The Birds Advertisers Agri Bio Tech Canada, Inc....................................................................... 22 Albion Golf Cars and Turf Equipment............................................... 10 Almack & Associates .............................................................................. 19 Braemar Building Systems ................................................................. 5 Century Rain Aid......................................................................................17 G.C. Duke Equipment Ltd...................................................................... 2 Graphic Services Ltd................................................................................ 23 Hydro Agri Canada ................................................................................. 16 John Eisen Ltd............................................................................................ 18 Loraday Environmental Products Ltd................................................ 8 Maple Farm Supply ................................................................................ 19 Nu-Gro Corporation............................................................................ 21 OSC Seeds .................................................................................................. 10 The P.E.S.T. Institute................................................................................ 20 Plant Products Turf ............................................................................... 7 The Scotts Company............................................................................... 13 Skyway Lawn Equipment Limited..................................................... 23 Turf Care Products Canada - Irrigation Division............................ 18 Turf Care Products Canada ...................................................................24 United Horticultural Supply ............................................................... 4 United Horticultural Supply .................................................................11 Vanden Bussche Irrigation & Equipment Limited ......................... 20 Zander Sod Co. Limited ........................................................................ 23 President's message would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Board of Directors to wish everyone a happy New Year and every success for the coming year. With the busyness of the Christmas season behind us and the seminar and trade show season upon us, one can only be motivated to improve upon last season’s successes and setbacks. ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS’ The Ontario Golf Superintendents’ ASSOCIATION Association was created to promote research, Guelph Turfgrass Institute exchange information, increase public awareness 328 Victoria Road South and improve the prestige of the Association and Guelph, ON N1H6H8 its members. As we enter the 21st century, those Ph: 519-767-3341 Toll Free: 877-824-6472 goals are still very much relevant. I believe the strength of any Association Fax: 519-766-1704 depends on its members and their participation. It is through the exchange of Email: ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca information, experience and research that our profession and our abilities as turf managers has been enhanced. Over the past 75 years, the many changes have not deprived the community spirit that is unique to this occupation. BOARD OF DIRECTORS The “community” is the members. It is important the OGSA continues to grow PRESIDENT Keith Bartlett through new membership and expanding services. A large membership base will PAST PRESIDENT Ian Bowen allow our voice to be strong in the turf and golf industry. Golf Course VICE-PRESIDENT John Gravett Superintendents can only best represent our interest. There are many Golf Course TREASURER Jim Flett Superintendents and companies who have not realized the benefits of membership SECRETARY Mark Piccolo in the OGSA and the access to information that membership entitles. The age of information that we live in today embodies the spirit of the DIRECTORS Rob Ackerman Dean Baker OGSA, as each member has information and experiences to share. This Jeff Burgess magazine is a great resource when Golf Course Superintendents, Company Bob Burrows Representatives and Researchers are willing to take a very little amount of time Dave Cours to share their knowledge. We have some great stories to tell and Robert Heron communication is the only method that we have to exchange our ideas. Paul Scenna I believe our Association should be willing to take our knowledge and OFFICE stewardship of the environment and compassion beyond our membership. We ADMINISTRATOR Dorothy Hills should make the effort to be involved in the community. The Audubon Program is just one example of the many opportunities available to us to educate those outside the golf industry about Golf Course Superintendents. In the upcoming year, I hope the Board of Directors will guide this Association to meet your needs. The many changes facing our Association and industry will be met, with enthusiasm and seen only as an opportunity to improve. A few of the goals for this coming year will be to make the OGSA a stronger voice through a renewed membership campaign, a partner in the community, the completion of the 75th Anniversary Book about the history of the OGSA and continued opportunity for camaraderie, education and information. GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL I would like to congratulate and thank Ian Bowen on two successful years as COMMITTEE President and to Simon George as the Past President for several years of his Bob Burrows, Editor Dorothy Hills, Coordinating Manager time and commitment on the OGSA’s Board of Directors. Randy Booker My New Year’s resolution is to participate in the growth and continued Angelo Capannelli success of your Association. Ron Kowalski Greg O'Heron Mark Prieur Mark Schneider Tami Packham Jeff Stauffer Territory Manager Eric Williamson tjpackham@gto.net Cell (519) 588-1275 Res. (519) 578-8263 “Green is Beautiful” Green is Beautiful 2000 Fax (519) 749-9278 is Printed on Although every effort is made to check 789 Donnybrook Drive Dorchester, Ontario Recycled Paper material for publication, the association is not responsible for material published on Canada NOL1G5 behalf of its contributors. Working To Enhance ORDERS 1-800-328-4678 All rights are reserved by the publisher FAX 1-800-922-2622 and any reproduction in whole or part Our World www.uhsonline.com without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. HeaIth and safety Safety obligations by Doug Johnson, SAFETAID and Health and Safety Consulting, First Aid and Safety Supplies and WHMIS training Welcome! Happy New Year! We made it. All health and safety program and a health that fuss and bother and nothing came and safety committee. of it. Ah well, lets look to the future. You are also required to have an O.G.S.A. Welcomes our Here we are in January and we are orientation program that details the newest members looking forward to a new season. As work processes that you expect your Tom Brydon Class C you prepare for the summer, there are workers to follow. Ocean View Golf Club, Bermuda some things that you should be aware It also means that, no matter how of when it comes to safety. As many employees you have, you must Dave Chamberlain Class D Lambton College, Sarnia superintendents, you are the super­ train them all in the Workplace visors. You have a responsibility to Hazardous Materials Information Edward (Ted) Clark Class A ensure that your workplace is safe. System (WHMIS). WHMIS is one of the Pineland Greens, G.C., Millgrove Remember that no matter how many main training programs that the Robert Cowan Class A employees you have - whether part Ministry Inspectors look for if they Royal Woodbine Golf Club, Toronto time, full time or contractors - you have come on site. an obligation under the Occupational To ensure that your WHMIS Mark Hagedorn Class C Health and Safety Act to ensure that training is up to date and meets the Guelph Lakes Golf Club, Guelph there is a health and safety program and requirements of the Act it is imperative Steve Hatch Class C that all your employees are trained to that you have documentation to St. Thomas G. & C.C., St. Thomas understand their safety responsibilities. support your training program. This Stephen Hardwick Class F If you have more than five people means that you must have a written Presently unattached and less than twenty working at your program and documentation showing course (including contractors, those that each of your employees has Scott D. Hiles Class A that are in the pro shop, canteen, attended a training session. Outaouais Golf Club, Rockland kitchen, clubhouse and the greens), Remember that the Act provides for Darryl James Class F you are required to have a written fines of up to $25,000.00 and or a year Oliver's Nest G. & C.C., Lindsay health and safety program. You are also in jail on conviction for violations. required to have a worker health and Protect yourself and your Doug Prozak Class A Blairhampton Golf Club, Minden safety representative. If your course has organization by implementing a health twenty or more people on the payroll and safety program into your Jeff Parker Class A or working as contractors then the workplace that meets or exceeds Fort William C.C., Thunder Bay facility is required to have a written the law! 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 11th Annual OSC / Nutrite seminar by Alex La Belle CGCS, Paris Golf & Country Club Every November for the last eleven years the OSC and Nutrite have hosted an excellent educational program. The fact that it gets better each year is a tribute to their organizational skill and close attention to the current trends that influence our profession. The program has been recognized by the Golf Course Superintendent’s Association of America as a seminar worthy of 0.5 Professional Development Units (P.D.U.’s). It gives many superintendents a chance to build towards their Certification status in the GCSAA and what better endorsement can you get of the program’s status than that? The Ontario Seed Company Family The Nutrite / Hydro Family: Adrien Gallant and Chuck Eggleston This year we were hosted by Rhod details alluded to in Blair’s interesting results. Erie Shores is a testament to Trainor and the Hamilton Golf and and informative talk. Many of the the fact that if you have all the Country Club. The setting was ideal older beliefs regarding renovation / complete and correct information, and the hospitality, warm and friendly. reconditioning or construction were the effort will succeed. Dave backed It was an appropriate venue for a talk reviewed and found to be lacking in up his talk with some encouraging by Blair Gateman of Gateman Milloy, credibility. That is not unusual in that numbers, beautiful slides and a very on Bunker Construction and time is always the crucible in which informative brochure. You can get Renovation; appropriate in that Blair’s myth and myth-conception are the information from Nature House company is currently engaged in just burned away. It is during such talks as Inc. by phoning 217-833-2393; such an endeavor at this Willie Park these that we refine our processes. writing to them at Purple Martin masterpiece. An opportunity to Our first speaker of the day was Junction, Griggsville Illinois, 62340; examine some of the work going on at Dave Cours from Erie Shores G. & or E-mail: nathouse@adams.net . the course served to illustrate the finer C.C. Dave’s topic, “Attracting Birds Dave says not to hesitate calling him To The Course”, for information or arranging a visit. fit very well with Don’t be shy! the growing Without a doubt, the keynote realization that speaker Dave Prentice, gave an we are a part of a attention riveting presentation on greater whole in “Team Building” and “Building our shared Customers for Life”. Mr. Prentice, of environment. His Learningcorp Inc., spoke for two presentation was hours (with a lunch break) about fresh and how to identify personality traits and informative. How how they influence interaction within many times have groups. His insights into customer we heard about perceptions and the results of Purple Martins fulfilled or unfulfilled expectations and Bluebirds were eye opening. Many courses only to try our would do well to enlist his services in hand at attracting the spring to enhance their ability to birds with less attract and hold clients and Speakers L-R: Mike Jiggins, Dave Prentice, David Cours, Blair than glowing Gateman and Rick Ziegel. continued on page 7 continued from page 6 some cases taken for granted, the availability of quality water supplies. members. It is becoming a very I’m sure there are many courses that competitive environment out there would have paid a hefty ransom for and course loyalty seems to be Super Soakers full of water this year! coming down to, “What have you Who can remember the controversy done for me lately?” Again, the of selling ground water resources as OCS/Nutrite team delivered a bottled water this summer? The terrific topic and speaker to anchor Ontario government did such an their program. OSC or Nutrite about face on their position that it is people can give you all the amazing that the whole cabinet didn’t information you need to get in touch suffer whiplash! With resources either with Mr. Prentice. diminishing or coming under stricter Mike Jiggins of Turf and control it is essential that we manage Recreation Magazine took us inside our supplies jealously. As many have the workings of a very successful said, “Water supply is the oil crisis of company, touching on their genesis the next century!” and development. Using many of the To cap off the day, the traditional team building skills mentioned wine and cheese break was followed by earlier, the magazine has grown from the hilarious antics of Yuk Yuk’s 12,000 to over 14,000 subscribers comedian Derek Edwards, a long from coast to coast, over the past ten standing admonition of, “leave ‘em years. Great effort is involved in laughing!” All in all, a terrific day. The responding to a wide audience from week afterwards, the organizers were Newfoundland to British Columbia hard at work coming up with next year’s program. After this years Win the war covering topics from arboretums to zoo grounds; not an easy task. presentation I have only one question; Rick Ziegel of Vanden Bussche How can you possibly top that!!! against pests Irrigation, using a unique attention Nutrite/Hydro and OSC would grabber “Super Soaker” opened many eyes to the importance of, and in like to thank their sponsors. and nutrient Deficiencies. SPONSORS Bayco Golf Hutcheson Sand & Mixes Burnside Golf Services IMC Kalium Ask us for a Jacklin Seed Company Lange-Stegmann Co. Martin Marietta Pursell Technologies Rhom And Haas Canada Sustane Corporation Tee 2 Green Corp Rhone-Poulenc Green Cross Vicksburg Chemical Co. complete Turf Drain Inc. Uniroyal Chemical solution to all your Have you attested for a new turf care needs. member lately? Congratulations Rick Fortier, of Lakewood Golf Club! Rick is the winner of the Draw for the $250.00 worth of O.G.S.A. Merchandise. This contest was open to all Class A members and was announced in our October issue of Green Is Beautiful and our OGSA Flyers. Any Class A member who attested for any two new member applicants between October 1st and December 27th was eligible to win. Plant Products Co. Ltd., 314 Orenda Rd., Brampton ON L6T 1G1 (905) 793-7000, 800-387-2449, Fax (905) 793-9157 Is Your Club on Par? Thinking green isn't just about the colour of your course. It's about ensuring your facility is in total The Loraday Program compliance with present and expanding codes, and with the CGSA Environmental Management Resource Manual. With the number and sheer complexity of the regulations that affect the 1 Free Chemical Storage Assessment Free Fire Safety Plan future of golf course superintendents, it is difficult to find the time and resources to conduct a thorough assessment of your current practices. 2 Assessment Our program can help. Our qualified personnel have knowledge of the Free Spill Preparedness codes and the experience needed to assist you in reducing the inherent 3 Assessment liability of doing a self assessment. Free Spill Emergency In this business, there is no room for duffers. We can be 4 Response Assessment your environmental partner, able to deal with the issues of today while Networking with incorporating impending compliance requirements as well. Loraday 5 Regulatory Authorities Environmental Products can recommend the products and assist you Written in implementing the practices to ensure your course is coming up 6 Recommendations Fairways and Greens. Get With the Program 9 Charles Crt., Barrie, ON L4N 6S8 • Tel: 1-888-853-6600 • Fax: 705-733-3352 • Email: loraday@accglobal.net The Ontario Turf Symposium Good attendance was encouraged by the fair weather this year. Moving in and out of the trade show went smoothly and was quite enjoyable with the absence of last year’s snow drifts. Many of our members not only attended the show and the sessions, but were very active as speakers or chairpersons. OGSA was also visible in the trade show with our booth, and would like to thank all those members who took Opening Ceremonies were preceded by John Gravett was on hand to help out the time to stop by to say hello. Piper, Ian Ferguson of the 48th with tending the O.G.S.A. booth. Highlanders. On behalf of the Georgian Bay Golf Superintendents' Bob Golden, Rhod Trainer and Rob Witherspoon did the Association, Gary Gravett presented Rob Witherspoon, Director honours at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. of Guelph Turfgrass Institute with a $1500.00 cheque to put towards GTI research. OGSA Annual Meeting ITEM I BY-LAW AMENDMENT To: All members whose dues shall ARTICLE III SEC. 3 remain unpaid more than ninety Jim Flett chaired the meeting NON-PAYMENT OF ACCOUNTS (90) days past the first day of the and smoothly directed the From: The treasurer shall notify fiscal year, or after the due date of proceedings. Each director gave a members when their subscriptions any assessment, shall be dropped brief verbal account of their become due, and any member whose from the membership roll of this portfolio, since complete written account is not paid in full within one Association without further notice. reports had previously been mailed full year of default, shall be Reason: To more accurately reflect to all voting members, well in considered delinquent, have their the By-laws of the GCSAA advance of the meeting. name removed from the Simon George conducted the membership lists and have all ITEM II PROPOSED ANNUAL election to fill the one vacant spot on Association privileges terminated. DUES INCREASE the board, since Simon has fulfilled Members can only be reinstated on 1) A 5% increase in annual dues in his term as Past President. Bob giving a satisfactory reason for his all classes, with the exception of Burrows, from Rosedale Golf Club, default to the Board of Directors. Class ‘C’ (Assistants) who had been nominated for this Application for re-installment must Reason: Raise membership dues to opening, was unanimously voted in. be accompanied by remittance of cover operating losses and to cover We take this opportunity to welcome such dues as are due and payable at rising costs of operation. Bob to the board and to thank Simon the time of application. A delinquent 2) We are also recommending that for all of the time and effort devoted member requesting re-instatement, the Class ‘C’ category be raised to OGSA. must re-apply as would any new from $60.50 to $90.00. Dave Cours read out the member. No member of the Reason: To keep in line with other following proposed by-law changes Association whose subscription is in associations, and make a distinction and asked for a motion to adopt arrears shall participate in any of the between Class C and other classes in these changes. All members were in advantages or privileges of the view of their added benefits and favour of the changes. Association, vote on any question or opportunities to attend tournaments. compete for any prize at the discretion of the Board of Directors. continued on page 10 continued from page 9 Introducing your Y2K O.G.S.A. Board of Directors SEEDS For All Your Golf Course Needs! Turf seed, Pesticides, Nutrite Fertilizers and Bayco Golf Accessories P.O. Box 7, Waterloo, Ont. N2J 3Z6 Tel: (519) 886-0557 Fax: (519) 886-0605 1-800-465-5849 Email: seeds@oscseeds.com David Schmelefske A. Kent McDonald Trevor Hunter Back Row L-R: Rob Ackermann, Mark Piccolo, Dave Cours, Bob Burrows, Front Row L-R: Dorothy Hills (Office Admin), John Gravett, Keith Bartlett, Ian Bowen, Jim Flett. (Bob Heron, Dean Baker, Paul Scenna & Jeff Burgess were unavailable for photo). President's Reception 1999 OGSA Turfgrass Scholarship The President’s Reception immediately followed the Annual General Meeting with a good turnout. The Lindsay Preston is the official part of the evening included an introduction to recipient of the 1999 Turfgrass the Board of Directors and the presentation of the Scholarship for $1,000.00. Scholarship Awards. Lindsay is currently in her second year of the Turfgrass Manager’s Course in which 1999 OGSA Heritage Award she is an excellent student. She is eager to apply what she Ryan Dick is the recipient of the 1999 2nd Annual has learned and comments Heritage Scholarship for $1,000.00. that the Turfgrass Industry in Ryan is the son of Dave Dick from The Scotts Company. Ontario is a rapidly expanding Ryan is enrolled in the science programme at McMaster one that presents a lot of University. He is grateful for the scholarship which will go opportunity and challenges to towards his education to fulfill his goal of becoming a a young woman in the golf industry. She looks forward to doctor. Congratulations Ryan! these challenges and opportunities that await her. Congratulations Lindsay! 29 ADVANCE ROAD TORONTO, ONTARIO M8Z2S6 PHONE: (416) 236-1001 FAX: (416)236-4654 www.albiongolfcars.com BRUCE MCDONALD Ryan Dick with his family. 3rd annual O.G.S.A. President's Reception Wednesday, January 5, 2000 Our 3rd Annual President’s Reception enjoyed a good fertilizers so good, turnout again this year, and offered our members the opportunity to socialize following the annual general meeting. We would like to take this opportunity to thank we put our name the sponsors of this event. Without their support, this would not have been possible. Thank you! on them. SPONSORS ALLTURF LTD. AGRIBIOTECH CANADA, INC. ALMACK & ASSOCIATES BARTLETT TREE EXPERTS - ARBORIST’S TREE Performance and quality is one thing, SERVICE genuine value for our customers is another. DCS AGRONOMICS FERTICHEM INC./WMTS ENTERPRISES Genuine value comes only when you're able G.C. DUKE EQUIPMENT LTD. to gather the best components on the market, KIRKPATRICK GOLF INC. combine them in a way for the best possible HUTCHESON SAND AND MIXES performance, then deliver that combination LORADAY ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCTS LTD. McCRACKEN GOLF SUPPLIES INC. in the best possible manner. MAPLE TURF SUPPLY MULTITYNES LTD. That's United Horticultural Supply and NU-GRO CORPORATION UHS Signature Brand Fertilizers? We've done NUTRITE HYDRO AGRI CANADA all the work so you get the results you're after. SCOTTS COMPANY, THE You have our name on it. ONTARIO SEED COMPANY SKYWAY LAWN EQUIPMENT Contact your local UHS representative TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA LIMITED for more information. ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED Eastern Canada (800) 328-4678 Western Canada (888) 273-4330 www.uhsonline.com UHS Signature Brand Fertilizers are a product of Curling Anyone? United Horticultural Supply The North Halton Golf Club is once again hosting a curling day to all those interested. Date: Wednesday, March 15, 2000 Place: North Halton Golf Club 363 Maple Avenue West Georgetown, Ontario L7B 4S5 Time: 12:30 pm Fee: $10.00 at the door to cover lunch Anyone who is interested in joining in on this day of curling please contact either: Al Beeney at North Halton Golf Club: Phone: 905-877-8784 Fax: 905-877-5238 OR Dorothy Hills at O.G.S.A. Phone: 519-767-3341 (Toll Free 1-877-824-6472) Fax: 519-766-1704 Is anyone interested in being a SKIP? Something's fishy at Donalda by Scott White, Assistant Grounds Manager Donalda Club I've been an angler at heart for a fall with Atlantic long time but the ability to land the salmon which was fish that would someday make me a native to the legend somehow eludes me. In Great Lakes Ontario, I’ve fished the Kawartha region but the Lakes and Muskoka regions, and a last time one was few of the major rivers flowing from seen was in 1902. Lake Ontario but never imagined I Today, the lake is would ever see anything large host to several enough to be “hook worthy” coming types of game fish out of the Don River. You can including the imagine my surprise then, when one Chinook salmon, of the staff came over the radio in which were late August and reported that he’d introduced from seen a salmon in the water in the East British Columbia Don River by the maintenance shop. in the 1950’s. The Donalda Club is located more Lake Ontario than 10 kilometres from where the has been popular Don River enters Lake Ontario and to sport fishing the Great Lakes. Chinook salmon winds through a deep valley that is enthusiasts for many years so the dis­ have thrived in the region because still largely naturalized. At one time appearance of the larger game fish they are a less demanding species the river was largely populated in the gave cause for concern. The with regards to water temperature introduction of and clarity (suspended particulate). Chinook to the For many years The Ministry of region was a Natural Resources, Toronto Regional necessity for two Conservation Authority and other reasons. The first interested groups have worked not was to give only to spawn the game fish of the anglers a variety region (Chinook salmon, Brown and of salmon after Rainbow Trout) but to also clean up the extinction of the waters they inhabit. the native species In recent years, the Toronto in the 50’s. It was Regional Conservation Authority also significant (TRCA) has been removing the weirs because it reduced the (flow controlling dams) from the population of Don to allow the salmon to continue Alewise (small further and further up the river. The minnow type fish) natural instinct of these fish is to which had begun return to their origins to lay their to overpopulate continued on page 13 continued from page 12 eggs, but many stray into different solution a few of tributaries like the Don River. Less the grounds staff than one percent of all of the eggs spent their late placed into an ecosystem will survive afternoons to maturity and spawn. In the spring catching the of 1999 the TRCA removed a weir salmon and just below the south end of the releasing them on course. Coupled with the fact that the high side of efforts had been made to stock the the weir to allow lake at Ashbridges Bay (east of the them to continue. Don River on L. Ontario) it was only The TRCA how­ a matter of time before the salmon ever, is attempt­ returned. Salmon, as young, enter ing to raise the lake at approximately five grams sufficient funds to in weight and mature within four build a fish years. A mature salmon usually ladder made of weighs anywhere between 10 and 13 armour stone and kilograms (20-30 lbs.). Brown Trout round river rock also travel the river in the fall and to alleviate this problem. The TRCA States, some of the western states have many will spawn in the third year and is presently analyzing bore samples to even introduced decaying fish material return to the lake before spawning determine the load capacities of the into a river to boost the aquatic envi­ again the following year. Rainbow weir and hopes to raise the funds ronments and bring life back to a Trout complete their lifecycles in the required to undertake this project. It struggling habitat. It sounds like spring making the river active is believed that the weir at the club is everybody wins when you look at the throughout a great portion of the the last obstruction the fish will big picture! season. Often these migrating fish encounter until Steeles Ave., a little The Donalda Club is also currently reach natural and man made working with the Conservation over seven kilometres upstream. The Authority and the Task Force on the obstacles that prevent them from further the salmon can travel Don River by creating buffer zones reaching the substrates to the north. upstream the higher the probability along the banks, and allowing these The maintenance facility at the that the eggs will not be covered over areas to naturalize. In addition, the Donalda Club was originally a mill in silt and die before hatching. club is a member of the Audubon that obtained its power from the The return of salmon to the Don is Cooperative Sanctuary Program and current of the Don River. A weir was not only of benefit to the aesthetics of is actively pursuing the final constructed to harness the rivers the river valley but also to the eco­ requirement in becoming fully energy in the late 1800’s and it system itself. The presence of the large certified by the Sanctuary. powered many of the mills in the fish will greatly increase the amount of The membership has been Don Valley. The water that flows over decaying material within the river and fascinated by the splashing tails and the weir is too shallow and the run in turn boost the populations of jumping fish from the steady flow of too long to enable the salmon to zooplankton and protozoa. In other salmon and trout this past fall. It’s continue north of the maintenance words, the increase in food at the base amazing how much the natural barns to spawn. As a temporary of the food chain will create a snowball environment within a property can effect that will affect the overall impression a course benefit all of the leaves you with at the end of the day. other inhabitants An occasional round in the 70’s of the ecosystem. would be nice too! In the United The Scotts Company Dave Dick Jeff McMaster Turfgrass Specialist Turfgrass Specialist 39 Monte Vista Trail 1864 Bowler Drive Brampton, Ont. L6Z 2J7 Pickering, Ont. L1V 3E4 Fax & Phone 905-846-3319 Fax & Phone 905-839-6526 Scotts Head Office 1-800-543-0006 Easy Birdies by Dave Cours Birdies are easy to come by at While the bird Erie Shores Golf 8c Country Club. migrations are Fortunately or unfortunately, wonderful, the depending on your perspective, insect migration these are not the usual birdies that of the Monarch golfers pursue. Erie Shores has Butterfly is a site become a virtual haven for our fine- to behold. In the feathered friends. late summer, the Erie Shores Golf 8c Country Club Monarchs gather is located on the shores of Lake Erie, in our area for in Leamington, Ontario just outside their trip across the gates of Point Pelee National Lake Erie. If Park. Point Pelee is the most conditions are southern point in mainland Canada. proper, tens of This park, while small, hosts several thousands of hundred thousands of birds during butterflies will the spring and fall migrations. Over gather on area 350 varieties of birds have been seen trees. The limbs of at Point Pelee with a trained these trees are birdwatcher able to spot over 100 in often bent just one day. We are blessed by our severely by the location and share these numbers weight of the butterflies. In the early staff only. In 1993, Jim Sudds, a with our Park neighbour. dawn, as the sun warms their wings, resident member of Erie Shores, they will leave their roosts as a group approached us, to volunteer to and float over the lake on gentle initiate this program. A proposal was north winds. It truly is a wondrous site. given to the Board of Directors, and As well as the migrating wildlife, approval was given, subject to the Erie Shores also plays host to several condition that the program be self- resident bird species. Our two most sufficient. Four main people from successful programs have been for our membership have been the keys the Swallows and the Purple Martins. to the program’s success. They are Our entire Environmental Jim Sudds and Mary Wilson, in Program is structured around the use charge of the Purple Martin of volunteers. The task of initiating Program. Don Chalcraft and Don bird box programs and properly Mensch are involved with the other maintaining and monitoring these bird box programs and all other boxes seemed to be a huge task. With environmental Initiatives. Other the budget dollars for the Greens members have worked with these Department stretched and time and individuals and the Greens Staff to labor at a premium, it seemed make our program a success. unlikely that the program we were planning could be accomplished by continued on page 15 continued from page 14 be successful, cer­ TREE SWALLOW & BLUE BIRD POPULATION The bird box program for the Tree tain criteria must Swallows was originally brought about be met. The Year 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 Totals as a Blue Bird Nesting initiative. As we house should be Tree Swallows 229 194 255 280 328 1286 placed boxes around the course, it white in color to became evident that the Tree Swallow stay cool in the Blue Birds 0 0 0 12 0 12 is much easier to attract and is an summer sun. The aerial acrobat that adds enjoyment to entry holes A total of 50 houses are available. the round of golf. For the bird box should be 1.75 program, volunteers from our inches to 2.25 the base of the home. Keep this membership built the boxes. They inches. The individual compartments area free of vegetation. were then placed on the course and should measure 6 inches in width, • Martins LOVE people. Place are now monitored by Bird Box Trail 6 inches in depth and 5 inches in homes in areas of high golfer traffic Volunteers. Our boxes are broken height. Inside this compartment, such as near a practice green. into four separate trails and are shiny or bright walls will discourage When attracting birds, timing is monitored on a regular basis. The starlings. The compartments should very important. If you have been volunteers clear competitors, and be easily accessed to remove sparrow successful in the past, open or put up count nests, eggs and hatches. Our nests and monitor the Martin’s nest. your homes with the arrival of the program has been very successful with A front opening door allows this first birds. This is from April 1 to 20 over 1200 Swallows hatched to date. without the loss of the nest. A perch for Southern Ontario. If you are The Purple Martin Program built or guardrail should be provided in starting a new colony, do not be on an existing program that saw the the front to protect young birds from tempted to open your homes too houses being used as 150 yard falling. The homes that we chose are early. The first birds to arrive, known markers. These homes were old, the Nature House line as they meet as scouts, are mature birds that are overgrown by trees and damaged by all the criteria for an excellent house. returning to their homes. They are the odd stray golf ball. There were 14 These were supplied by Newlands not interested in your house. The of the MK12 homes supplying 168 Flowers in Leamington. Don birds that will nest in a new home are compartments. As these homes were Newland is a member of our course first year birds. Typically, you should poorly placed and in dire condition, it and the importer for Nature House. wait four to five weeks after seeing was decided to start fresh and replace the first scout before opening your the entire colony. In order to meet the home. As with all homes remove and “self sufficiency” mandate we were Location, Location, Location. destroy competitors nests (usually given by the Board, the volunteers sparrows) at least once per week. If procured sponsorships for the homes. As with real estate, success with you are still having difficulty, the use By giving a set donation, a home would Purple Martins starts with the proper of the dawn song at daybreak is be erected and the name or phrase of location of the home. almost guaranteed to bring Purple your choice would be placed on the • The Martins prefer the homes to be Martins in if they are in your area. home. This was a very successful pro­ ten to twenty feet in the air. When Tapes or CD’s are available at local gram and we have had no problem in purchasing, buy homes that can be nature shops. These are recordings covering our course with 33 homes easily raised and lowered by either a of the dawn song of the adult male offering 472 compartments. telescopic pole or a pulley system. Purple Martin. The male martin sings A Purple Martin house may be • Place homes in an area that this song, in the early dawn hours, to purchased or homemade. In order to provides a forty-foot circle that is attract new members to his house. clear of trees, This helps to add to the genetic buildings or diversity of his home but we can use it wires. Martins to attract our first birds. require a clear Once you have attracted your flight path to Martins, it is imperative that you their house. maintain your colony. Competition • While Martins from sparrows and starlings should be love to be near a dealt with swiftly by nest removal or water feature, trapping. Nests should be counted make sure that and monitored. Do not worry, while irrigation the Martins may seem bothered by sprinklers do your presence, they will soon be used not spray into to you and will not mind your the homes! occasional viewing of the nests. Watch • Martins are for pests such as blowflies and other fearful of their insects or mites. There is a dedicated predators and web site that will give more detail on will not nest if these and many other issues. It is there are shrubs found at www.purplemartin.org. This or long grass at Local businesses and residents sponsored homes. continued on page 23 Tip of the month Soluble or Golf Ball Protection golf balls go right through. The Granular only problem that has occurred is Turf Fertilizer: that players use it as a garbage can. The Golf Clubs that have Maybe putting a lid on it would The Choice stainless steel irrigation controller prevent this. Building a box not is Yours boxes should know what this is all only protects it from golf balls but about. The shiny little robot also from vandals. A shiny box is a standing in a group of trees looking nice target for a power cart. Choose the new generation of like it has a case of small pox. Like Our boxes were built by Mr. DeltaSpray® water soluble fertilizers to “spoon-feed” your turf. small pox, prevention is the answer. Glenn Drewery at his home during By building a small box around the the off season. After 35 years • free flowing, non-hardening controller and painting it with a service, Mr. Drewery is retiring as • contains micronutrients • reduced mower pick up dull grey paint. Adding shrubs will general manager at the end of the • full spectrum of even make it blend in to the year 2000; he was also the club’s first formulae surroundings better. Using deck superintendent. I wish him luck and nails, 1 x 4s and 2 x 4s and 2 coats of wellness in the new century. gray stain, the cost is less than Jim Moore $60.00 each. Do not use lattice - Puslinch Lake Golf Club Or choose from the Nutrite® family of blended granular turf fertilizers • The largest selection of slow release nitrogen sources for programmed feeding for up to 16 weeks • Micro, Mini and Regular sizes Mechanic's corner • Complete range of blends for all turf applications • New HydroPrill® homogeneous nutrient granules Testing glow plugs Make Hydro Agri Canada your choice for professional turf fertilizers. This is a quick way to check glow plugs without removing them from the head. First Elmira, Ontario disconnect the power lead and connecting rack Telephone: (519)669-5401 from the glow plugs. Using your 12V test light, Toll Free: (800) 265-8865 Fax: (519) 669-8971 connect the ground clamp to the battery positive terminal. Touch the tip of the test light to the top of each Hydro Agri plug. If the light lights, the plug is good. No light, the plug is burnt out. If the plug is shorted internally, it will arc to the test light when you first make contact. Canada The intensity of the test light is also an indicator of the condition of your glow plugs. A dim light shows that the plug is failing but not completely burnt out. A Successful Season... Starts with Century Golf Course Services Century offers the complete line of Hunter Golf products to help you control water, labor and energy costs. Featuring Hunter rotors, valves, Genesis central satellite and Viking decoder control systems. Efficient and economical, SyncroFlo pumping stations are the solution to many golf course irrigation problems. BoardTronics™ Repair or upgrade your Rain Bird or Toro golf controllers. Replacement boards can be shipped from the Century National Service Center within 24 hours. Call 888-855-9132. Sprinklers • Valves • Controllers • Pump Stations Controller Board Repairs • Fountains An inviting, well-maintained course means challenging play...and a profitable season. As a golf superintendent, you can achieve this success with Century Golf Course Services. Century's team of Improve water quality with an aerating professionals can help you solve irrigation or drainage problems and fountain, or create water features from show you what's new in clubhouse lighting, water features and more. existing golf course Call today for a free catalog and on-site consultation. streams and ponds. 800-347-4272 www.rainaid.com CENTURY GOLF PROFESSIONAL ONTARIO > HUGH COWAN 905-881-4794 Oakdale Golf Club was the winner of Plant Products’ Giant Pumpkin Contest. Oakdale GC donated their winnings from 1998 and 1999 to the Pine Needle Mulch Salvation Army. The staff at the Salvation Army Superior Bedding Material were very grateful, and announced that the All natural proceeds would go to buy necessary food items. High in nitrogen Insect and rodent free Provide erosion protection Retains moisture in the soil Fine root frost protector Beautiful auburn colour Baled, not bagged Each bale covers 50 sq. ft. at a 3" depth RR #4 Fergus, ON N1M2W5 tel: (519) 843-2854 fax: (519) 767-3802 www.eisenstone.com email: info@eisenstone.com Kerry Whale of Plant Products and Paul Dermott of Oakdale Golf Club with Salvation Army Representative. Nature’s Perfect Groundcover 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 Announcements ONTARIO WORKS EMPLOYMENT PLACEMENT illness while on the job, any claim made will not effect the employer's “Incentives For Employers Hiring People on Social Assistance” WSIB experience rating, nor will it effect their premiums. The Ontario Works Program provides employment assistance to If you are looking to hire people to work in your pro-shops, to tend people in financial need across Ontario to help them find employment the greens or to provide any other work on your golf course for the and become self-sufficient. upcoming golf season, then consider hiring an Ontario Works participant. Last year, the government announced plans to expand Ontario This opportunity paves the way for employers to hire some very capable Works into the private sector to create more opportunities for people on people while taking advantage of some attractive incentives. social assistance to get into the workforce. For more information on this initiative, please contact your local This new initiative is designed to encourage private sector Ontario Works Office listed under Ontario Works in the Blue Pages participation by making available a range of incentives to those employers hiring people on welfare directly into paid employment. Under this initiative, participants are hired by the employer and DO YOUR OWN WATER PERMIT placed directly on the employer's payroll. Participants would receive the One Day Seminar For Golf Course Operators In Ontario going rate of pay for that position. Date: Thursday, March 9, 2000 Ontario Works Delivery Agents - who deliver Ontario Works - may Location: Hockley Valley Resort negotiate a range of incentives with the employer for up to a maximum Cost: $175 per person six months. These incentives are negotiated based on the expectations Seminar will feature: that paid employment will continue beyond the incentive period. • assistance in completing a water taking permit application on the spot Program guidelines are in place to ensure that job placements do not • required MOE Application forms, guidelines displace current employees or fill vacancies that have resulted from layoffs. • water taking for surface water and groundwater sources Program Incentives • explanation of water taking requirements and what you can do There are a number of incentives available to employers who hire • ways to reduce consumption people on social assistance. Ontario Works Delivery Agents may • latest rules/regulations regarding water use in Ontario, possible changes negotiate the provision of one or more of the following incentives to any • other studies or work that may be required? one employer for up to a maximum six months. • lunch and refreshments. Financial Incentives For Employers This program will enable the golf course superintendent to prepare Employers are eligible for a financial incentive for up to period of six supporting information and an application for a water taking permit for months to offset any additional costs of training and supervision or to application to the MOE. Many superintendents will be able to make their purchase employment-related training (e.g. computer training, grounds own application and receive a permit or, in the very least, have supporting keeping training etc.). information available to make future applications easier and less The amount of financial incentive provided will be negotiated expensive. MOE is expecting to announce changes to the Permit to Take between the Ontario Works Delivery Agent and the employer and will Water process this winter and this seminar will feature the latest changes. vary depending on the participant's training and supervisory needs. If you are interested in attending, please call 519-941-5331 and ask Hiring Assistance, Screening and Matching for Jim Firth. Future seminars will be offered in Ottawa, London, Barrie, Comprehensive screening and matching services along with hiring Sarnia and Niagara. Burnside Golf Services assistance are available to provide employers with candidates that have the potential to become permanent employees. For example, participants A Division of R. J. Burnside & Associates Limited are screened and matched with available jobs to provide employers with a 15 Townline, Orangeville, Ontario L9W 3R4 pool of candidates that will ensure a "best fit" for the job. Telephone: 519-941-5331 Fax: 519-941-8120 email: info@rjburnside.com Human Resources Follow-up Services The Ontario Works Delivery Agent will provide follow-up human resource services during the incentive period to address any human LAMBTON COLLEGE COOPERATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAM resource issues or problems that may arise. Lambton College Golf Course Technician Co-operative students and WSIB/Accident Insurance Coverage graduates available from mid April through mid October. Workplace Safety and Insurance Board coverage (or accident Tax Credits Available. insurance coverage) is available to participants placed with an employer Fax Complete job description to: Karen McClughan (519) 541-2421 or during the incentive period. Should a participant incur any injury or phone (519) 542-7751 ext. 3386. Brett Murray Technical Sales - Professional Products Corrie Almack, P.Ag. Maple Farm Supply Bus: (905) 857-2000 8112 King Road West Mobile: (416) 616-8112 P.O. Box 370 Fax: (905) 857-8215 ALMACK & ASSOCIATES Tel: (905) 689-6174 1-800-268-4425 Bolton, Ontario L7E 5T3 Box 256, Carlisle, Ontario Fax: (905) 689-8522 brett.murray@sympatico.ca LOR 1HO Email: C.AImack@sympatico.ca SPECIALIZING IN PESTICIDE EDUCATION & SERVICE TECHNOLOGY BULLETIN UP -DATE presents LAND GREENKEEPING IN ONTARIO and EXTERMINATOR (LANDSCAPE CATEGORY) THE HISTORY OF THE ONTARIO GOLF LICENCE PREPARATION COURSES SUPERINTENDENTS’ ASSOCIATION NORTH YORK January 24 - 28, 2000 Here's another little snippet from our February 21 - 25, 2000 March 13 - 17,2000 publication still in the works... John Gray March 27 -31,2000 was born in 1885 on a farm near April 10 - 14,2000 Aberdeen, Scotland. In 1907 he May 1 - 5, 2000 immigrated to Canada and worked with MILTON December 6 -10, 1999 architect Harry Colt in the Detroit area. In April 3 - 7, 2000 1913 he supervised the construction of Essex GC near LONDON Windsor, Ontario. Then he went off to war, survived trench March 20 - 24, 2000 warfare, returned to Essex and became one of the most OTTAWA beloved and respected greenkeepers at his own club and in March 6 - 10,2000 Gov't exam held on Monday following each course the entire industry. Instructor: Paul G. Pilley, B.Sc., M. P. M. Keep those cards and letters coming in, its not too late to contribute to our For more information and a brochure contact: 75th commemorative publication. P.O. Box 1021 Lindsay, Ontario K9V 5N4 E-mail: pgp_pest@lindsaycomp.on.ca Tel: (705) 324-PEST (7378) Fax: (705) 324-9729 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 The New Revolution Of Grub Control • Over 90% control of grubs • Stops grubs from feeding immediately • Reduced need for repeat application • Long residual activity • No odour Merit can be applied from early June to late July Nu-Gro Corporation 10 Craig Street, Brantford, ON N3R7J1 1 -800-461 -6471; www.nu-gro.com At AgriBioTech Canada, Inc, we are dedicated to providing superior forage and turf varieties to the golf course, sod, recreation, retail turf and farm sectors. Emerging technologies, new breeding techniques - all facets of science, give nature a hand by expanding these possibilities through seed research and development. turf & Improved seed varieties and traits means increased soybean yields, insect resistant alfalfa or tougher, forage more disease resistant turf and forage plants. These superior characteristics are essential in aiding turfgrass and forage producers throughout the world. At AgriBioTech Canada, Inc., we intend to meet their needs for value added seeds that deliver... anywhere! Look for AgriBioTech Canada, Inc products under the Oseco and AgriBioTech Canada, Inc. Rothwell Seeds brands. "A full service seed company specializing in the AgriBioTech Canada, Inc. forage and turfgrass sector, complete with research has access to leading edge science and technology, international distribution and development of proprietary seed varieties, and sales networks with more buying power and seed processing plants and a national and greener profits for our Canadian customers. For more information, international distribution and sales network" contact us at 888.768.4935 seed specialists 250 Baseline Road, East Bowmanville, Ontario L1C1A4 Telephone: 1-888-768-4935 Phone: 905-623-2660 Fax: 905-623-6127 to the world Looking back Thirty years ago today by Barry Endicott, Nobleton Lakes Golf Club he following were elected to the Keith Nesbit; and low net, Dave The 61st Canadian Open was held 1970 Board of Directors of the OGSA Gourlay and Frank Russell. at the London Hunt and Morley at the annual meeting: John New Members were M. Shymanski, Findlay was the Superintendent. Grightmire (president); John Arends W. Shea, T. Ralph, C. Witton and Fire strikes twice at the (vice-president); Bill Hynde; Hehnot C. Bennet. Members on the move maintenance building in a period of Kopp; Bob Heron (treasurer); Ron were John Grightmire to Rosedale less than 1 week. It was suspected that Allen; Bob Lamb; Bernie Macdonald; from Beverley G.C. and Roy French a fire bug was responsible and Ross Haines; Jim Wyllie; Frank Dunn; from Lookout Point to Beverley. ironically the members at York Downs and Allen Jones (past president). Twenty-five turf managers com­ were to vacate the Premises by the end Meetings were held at Tam pleted the first winter short course in of October and move their new 27 O’Shanter, Carl Sellers and the IBM Turf Management at the University hole course near Unionville. Norman Country Club, Reg Stannard. 60 Of Guelph. They were Paul Scenna, MacDonald was the Superintendent. people attended the Galt Field Day Waterloo Golf Club; Weston Kastes, with Dr. Eggens and Dr. Switzer Dundee; Doug Suter, Credit Valley; speaking on their projects at the turf Ed Charman, Toronto Ladies; David continued from page 15 plots. 40 golfers teed off with Bill Stevens, Beaverbrook; John Arends, is an excellent source of information Hynde, 74 gross, and Bill Bond, 75 Hawthorne Valley; Paul Weidmark, for the Purple Martin and its gross, leading the pack. The Greens IBM; Dave Gourlay, Thornhill; Keith management. Chairman-Superintendent Golf Day Brown, Glen Lawrence; Ian McBean, Our program has hatched nearly was held on July 23 at the Aurora St. Claire Comm.; Al Beeney, North 3000 birds into the Purple Martin Highlands with 100 participants. Halton; Charles Behm, Cherry population and has added a great Winners were: low gross, Doug and Ridgeway; Barry McIntosh, amount of pride to our membership. Cedarbrae; Frank We hope this article will provide a few Watts, Case ideas and aid you in setting up your Van Wees; Gord own nesting box program. Witteveen, North­ wood; Wm. Lantz, Baby bird 6 year comparison chart is available detailing the Sponsor Name, Guelph; Stew Number of Rooms, and Number of Birds Mills, Glendale; Hatched from 1994 - 1999. Due to lack Courtney Abblett, of space, we are unable to reproduce this R. Parkinson and chart, however, if you would like a copy SUPPLIERS OF TOP QUALITY Ron Weir, Pine of this chart please contact Dorothy at BENT AND BLUE GRASSES Valley. the OGSA office. (416) 364-5700 Layout, Design & Printing provided by... 1067 Beach Boulevard Hamilton, Ontario L8H 6Z9 Telephone 905-545-5363 GRAPHIC Fax 905-545-2647 CAN-USA 1-800-263-8606 SERVICES PRINTERS & LITHOGRAPHERS Express Dual & AngleMaster e-mail: info@graser-novtic.com Reel Mower http://www.graser-novtic.com Sharpeners 32 - 34 Essex Street, Guelph, ON N1H 3K8 Tel.: (519) 763-5745 • Fax: (519) 763-9532 TURF CARE Lose a few pounds, ADD SOME MUSCLE, AND SUDDENLY EVERYONE WANTS YOU. Its amazing what a few changes can do for your self esteem. Take the all-new Toro Reelmaster 5500-D, the leanest, meanest reel mower in its class. With ultra-wide high-flotation tires front and back, it treads lightly over sensitive turf. But it also sports a powerful 35-hp Kubota Turbo-Diesel engine to power through stubborn grass and over slopes. And the new cutting units are built with brawny 7" diameter reels, to conquer heavy growth conditions. A pretty attractive package, any way you look at it. Contact your Turf Care sales representative at the location nearest to you. Turf Care Products Canada 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 • PHONE (905) 836-0988 FAX (905) 836-6442 London Mississauga Scarborough Gloucester Ph: (519) 668-7664 Fax: (519) 668-3722 Ph: (905) 890-6290 Fax: (905) 890-5598 Ph: (416) 298-2101 Fax: (416) 298-8758 Ph: (613) 822-1881 Fax: (613) 822-2099