October 2004 Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Keeping our heads above water Pesticides regulations for golf courses 104th United States Open Championship Assistants and McClumpha Tournaments CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1H 6H8 Contents Green is Keeping Our Heads Above Water ................................ 16 1st Annual 2nd Turf Classic.................................................................. 22 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents ’ Association Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament..........................................19 Assistants Tournament....................................................................... 20 Canadian Golf Superintendents Association news...................... 9 Cyber super............................................................................................... 11 Editor's message ..................................................................................... 4 From roots to shoots............................................................................. 5 G.T.I Research Field Day......................................................................... 7 Golf course highlight - Muskoka Lakes G&CC................................ 18 Health & safety........................................................................................ 10 Looking back.............................................................................................31 Mechanic's corner.................................................................................... 11 Member profile: Interview with Andrew Keffer............................ 14 Off the fairway: Conference Horticultural Program...................... 28 O.T.R.F......................................................................................................... 8 Pesticide Regulations for Golf Courses............................................. 12 President's message............................................................................... 3 COVER PICTURE Turf or consequences.............................................................................. 29 Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club photo by Rob Eagleson United States Open Championship.................................................... 26 Advertisers Almack Agronomic Services Inc........................................................ 10 All Turf Ltd.................................................................................................27 Bartlett Tree Experts............................................................................. 27 Bayer Envrionmental Science - Aliette........................................... 21 Bayer Envrionmental Science - Compass....................................... 15 Bayer Envrionmental Science - Rovral Green............................... 24 Braemar Building Systems.................................................................. 25 Burnside Golf Services......................................................................... 4 DCS Agronomic Services......................................................................30 G.C. Duke Equipment Ltd..................................................................... 25 Maple Turf Supply............................................................................ 10,31 Master's Turf Supply Ltd....................................................................... 31 Nu Gro Corporation............................................................................... 30 Nu Gro - ParEx ........................................................................................23 Ontario Seed Company........................................................................ 4 OGSA is committed to The P.E.S.T. Institute.............................................................................. 4 serving its members, Skyway Lawn Equipment Limited................................................... 3 advancing their profession, Turf Care Products Canada - Irrigation........................................... 9 and Turf Care Products Canada.................................................................. 32 enriching the quality United Agri Products............................................................................. 30 of golf Vanden Bussche Irrigation and Equipment Ltd............................ 27 Zander Sod Co. Limited........................................................................ 27 and its environment. President's message Planning is a key ingredient in the A comprehensive success of any golf operation. By now strategic plan is in I’m sure your goals for your golf order and the course in 2005 are already in place. Board will be Through my many experiences on the undertaking this ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS’ by Rob Ackermann OGSA Board, I have learned that task over the ASSOCIATION Weston Golf & Guelph Turfgrass Institute planning is also paramount to the winter. The future Country Club 328 Victoria Road South success of our association. On a of our association is Guelph, ON N1H6H8 Ph: 519-767-3341 regular basis, our association plans for bright, and as a Board, we want to Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Fax: 519-766-1704 golf tournaments, publications, and make certain that the lights are Email: ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca conferences. This work takes strong shining in all the right places. We Website: www.golfsupers.on.ca commitment and a great deal of time. look forward to sharing our results. BOARD OF DIRECTORS We are an active, growing association. PRESIDENT Rob Ackermann PAST PRESIDENT Mark Piccolo There is always something to plan for I hope to see you at the Canadian VICE-PRESIDENT Paul Scenna, ms and it is easy to get lost in this activity. International Turfgrass Conference TREASURER Bob Burrows, cgcs SECRETARY Sean DeSilva In the spring, we completed a and Tradeshow January 6th to 11th. DIRECTORS Jeff Alexander corporate audit which resulted in Congratulations go to Bob Burrows, Chris Andrejicka Jarrod Barakett some immediate operational changes. his organizing committee, and our Randy Booker Now it is time for OGSA to step back organizing partners at the CGSA, as Doug Breen and look at the big picture. Where is the entire program looks outstanding. Rob Gatto Jeff Stauffer our association heading? What are OFFICE our short-term and long-term goals? Enjoy some quality time away from ADMINISTRATION Dorothy Hills What are our financial objectives and the course, you’ve worked hard and Pat Thomas Deborah Badger where do we best direct this resource? deserve it! 154 Upper Centennial Parkway (HWY 20) “Green is Beautiful” Stoney Creek, Ontario, is Printed on Canada L8J 2T7 GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL Recycled Paper COMMITTEE Telephone 905-662-2663 • Fax 905-662-2253 John Bladon, Editor CAN-USA 1-800-263-8606 Dorothy Hills, Coordinating Manager Express Dual Greig Barker & AngleMaster Angelo Capannelli Reel Mower Jason Hanna Sharpeners Brian Haum Scott Horsburgh Mark Prieur Layout, Design & Printing provided by... Kevin Falls Bill Green Scott Sleep GRAPHIC Green is Beautiful 2004 Although every effort is made to check SERVICES material for publication, the association is PRINTERS & LITHOGRAPHERS not responsible for material published on behalf of its contributors. "Quality you can See!" All rights are reserved by the publisher Tel: 519.763.5745 • Fax: 519.763.9532 and any reproduction in whole or part 32-34 Essex Street • Guelph, Ontario • N1H 3K8 without the written permission of the e-mail: info@graphicservices.ca • www.graphicservices.ca publisher is prohibited. Editor's message Ech season presents its challenges. The influences a of temperature, rain, humidity traffic, etcetera all play a role in how the season takes shape. Enclosed in this October issue of Green is Beautiful, Jennifer Pendrith of Welcome! O.G.S.A. Welcomes Kawartha Golf & Country Club demonstrates how a our newest members season can quickly turn when Mother Nature rears her by John Bladon Neil Boyd Class B ugly side. Nu-Gro Corporation Eagle Ridge Golf Club Green is Beautiful is jammed with some other must- reads this month as well. If you missed the Spring Field Day at the Cutten Edward Bradford Class C Club, Cathy Wright Curlew of the MOE has provided a written version of Camelot Golf & CC her presentation “Pesticide Regulations for Golf Courses”. Also, Pam Charbonneau asks us “Should Calcium Be Used on Ontario Soils?” and Colin Young Class C Greig Barker shares his U.S. Open experience. Finally, Andrew Keffer of Weston Golf & CC Clublink is this issue’s Member Profile. DryJect Ontario Class E The editorial committee will be meeting in November to discuss next Alexander McLeod year and evaluate both the Article of the Year and Photo of the Year to be presented at January’s conference. If you have any suggestions for us please MacViro Consultants Inc. forward them along. Lastly, think of what you may be able to provide us in Sid Gillespie Class E the way of news or photos for next season. Muin Husain Alan Winter Tee to Green Custom Signage Joe Korman Class E SPECIALIZING IN PESTICIDE EDUCATION & SERVICE TECHNOLOGY Burnside Utica Golf & Turf Products Gord Somerville Class E LAND Serving the Needs of the Golf Industry EXTERMINATOR (LANDSCAPE CATEGORY) We can help with: PESTICIDE CERTIFICATION COURSES December...................... 6 -10, 2004 • Approvals for Golf Course Development February..............................7 - 11, 2005 and Operations • Hydrogeology and Stormwater March (London)................ 7 - 11, 2005 Management March.............................. 14 -18, 2005 • Sewage Treatment and Disposal March (Ottawa)............... 21 -25, 2005 • Environmental Management Plans April..................................... 4 - 8, 2005 • Building and Clubhouse Design • Irrigation Design and Consulting WATER • Environmental Impact Assessment EXTERMINATOR Toll Free: (877) 799-8499 For All Your (MOSQUITO/BITING FLY) E-mail: vcirone@rjburnside.com December...................... 13 -17, 2004 February..........................21 -25, 2005 Website: www.rjburnside.com Golf Course Needs! All courses held in North York Turf seed, Pesticides, Nutrite Fertilizers except where noted and Bayco Golf Accessories Gov't exam held on Monday following each course. P.O. Box 7, Waterloo, Ont. N2J 3Z6 Instructor: Paul G. Pilley, B.Sc., M. P. M. Tel: (519) 886-0557 Fax: (519) 886'0605 1-800465-5849 Email: seeds@oscseeds.com For more information and a brochure contact: Victor Freiberg Ken Graham P.O. Box 1021 Lindsay, Ontario K9V 5N4 Trevor Hunter A. Kent McDonald E-mail: ppilley@cogeco.ca Offices located throughout Ontario David Schmelefske Tel: (705) 324-PEST (7378) Fax: (705) 324-9729 Members of OGSA, CGSA and Golfmax Suppliers to the NGCOA From rootstoshoots Should Calcium Be Used on Ontario Soils? Many fertilizer suppliers to the is a measure of the hydrogen cations in the soil solution and industry are recommending the on the cation exchange sites in the soil. Soil pH ranges addition of calcium to turf. This from 3-11 with 7 being neutral. Soils with a pH below 7 are practice has been adopted by some golf categorized as acidic and above 7 are alkaline. The pH of course superintendents in the province. the soil has an effect on the availability of plant nutrients. This begs the question - should calcium Some nutrients are more available at high pH’s and some be used on Ontario soils? I am going to are more available at a low pH. The optimum range of soil by Pam Charbonneau OMAF Turfgrass try to answer that question by looking at pH for most turfgrasses is between 5.5 and 7. Specialist the role of calcium in the turfgrass plant, If a soil pH is low, calcium in the form of lime, can be the role of calcium in the soil and report on some research added to the soil to raise the soil pH. This should not be findings on adding calcium to turf. done unless a soil test has been performed and has indicated the need for lime. The standard form of lime is Role of Calcium in the Turfgrass Plant calcium carbonate (CaCO3). If too much lime is added to There are 17 elements that are essential for plant a soil, the pH of the soil may be increased to a range that is nutrition in relatively large amounts. These are classified as too high for proper plant growth. Lime can burn turfgrass plant macronutrients and are found in the plant dry matter plants. This is especially true when lime is applied during in concentrations of at least 1000 ppm. They are: carbon, hot weather. It is also very difficult to get lime into the hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, potassium, calcium, rootzone of mature turf. The best time to add lime to magnesium and sulfur. Calcium ranks third after nitrogen adjust pH is at the time of turf establishment. and potassium in abundance in the turgrass plant. Calcium plays an important role in cell wall formation, cell division Role of Lime in Controlling Moss and cell growth. Calcium deficiencies may occur in low pH, Another reason that is cited for the addition of calcium in sandy soils. The turf leaves turn reddish brown. These the form of lime to soils is to control moss. The addition of symptoms have only been able to be demonstrated by using lime to soils to control moss is only effective if the soil pH is hydroponic solutions in a laboratory situation. Deficiency low. In most cases in Ontario moss is a result of soil symptoms are very rare in the field. Sufficiency ranges for compaction, poor drainage, overwatering or too much rain, tissue nutrient content for calcium in turfgrasses is 0.5- shade, low mowing height and poor fertility and not 1.3%. Sufficiency ranges for the major nutrients can be because of low pH soils. found in Table 1. Ontario Soils Role of Calcium in Soil When the glaciers receded from Ontario ten thousand Calcium is a positively charged element that occurs in the years ago, the materials left behind were deposited directly soil. The soil particles are negatively charged. These by the glaciers, deposited by melt waters running from the negative and positive charged elements work like magnets retreating glaciers or deposited in the bottom of glacial and are attracted to each other. The negatively charged lakes. These became the parent material of soils in ions in the soil hold on to the cations so that they can be southern Ontario. Most of these materials are limestone exchanged with cations in the root system and be taken up based and are neutral to basic in pH and are termed by the plant. The ability of the soil to attract these cations calcareaous soils. Because of this it is rare to find soils in is called the cation exchange capacity (CEC) and it is this part of Ontario that are low in pH and that would measured in milliequivalents per 100 grams of soil. The benefit from additional calcium in the form of lime. CEC has an impact on how fertilization is conducted. A low There are areas in Ontario where the soil pH is not CEC soil may need repeated applications of moderate levels alkaline. These include pockets of soil in the Canadian of fertilizer. A soil high in CEC can have larger amounts of Shield, but the majority of the soils in southwestern and fertilizer applied less frequently. south central Ontario are calcareous. The second role of calcium is its role in soil pH. The pH From roots to shoots ... continued Fertilizer Company Claims applications. Based on this role of calcium in the plant and in soils, In both the greenhouse and the field studies the fertilizer suppliers make the claim that it makes plants additional calcium did not increase the growth, colour or stronger and more resistant to wear, neutralizes soil acidity, leaf calcium content of the grasses established on the improves activity of favourable soil bacteria, promotes root calcareous sands. In the greenhouse study the additional development, improves soil structure, improves the calcium reduced the leaf magnesium content by 15% and efficiency and availability of fertilizer, reduces phosphate fixation and increases water penetration and water holding by 11% in the field trial. In the field studies, the calcium capacity. Some of these statements are true, but in very carbonate and calcium nitrate treatments reduced the soil specific situations or circumstances and they should not be extractable potash levels and the calcium sulphate, calcium used as generalizations for the benefits of calcium. nitrate and calcium chelate reduced the amount of soil extractable magnesium. Over time with continuous Calcium Fertilization Research additions of calcium both magnesium and potash could Researchers at the University of Iowa, Nick Christians and become deficient in the soil, leading to deficiencies in the Rodney St. John, conducted trials on calcareous based sand turfgrass plant. The greenhouse study did show that greens. Their research was to determine the benefits or creeping bentgrass had nearly twice the amount of calcium detriments of applying supplemental calcium to turfgrass in the leaf tissue as did Kentucky bluegrass and none of the established on calcareous sand. They wanted to know treatments increased the tissue calcium levels in either whether additional calcium increases the amount of species. calcium absorbed by the grass plant, whether it increases So the claims that additional calcium increases resistance clipping yield and quality and if it affects the availability of to wear can only be true if the added calcium is taken up by other nutrients to the plant. the turfgrass plant. This research demonstrates that it is not A greenhouse study looked at adding additional calcium taken up by the plant. As far as the addition of calcium to Kentucky bluegrass and creeping bentgrass grown in increasing the availability and efficiency of fertilizers, the calcareous sand. The additional calcium treatments calcium actually made the magnesium and potash less consisted of calcium sulphate, calcium carbonate, calcium available. nitrate and a chelated calcium. The calcium, regardless of The take home message from this research is that the source was incorporated into the growing medium at a supplemental applications of calcium did not increase rate of 4.7 lbs of calcium per 1000 sq. ft.. clipping yield, leaf calcium content or turf quality and that A two year field study on creeping bentgrass established the addition of calcium could limit the availability of on a calcareous sand putting green also received 4.7 lbs. of magnesium and potash to the plant when applied to calcium per 1000 sq. ft. applied as five separate monthly calcareous sand. Literature Cited Anonymous. 1998. Soil Fertility Handbook. Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food. p. 72-74. Christians, N.E. 1998. Fundamentals of Turfgrass Management. p. 106-109. Ann Arbor Press, MI. St.John, R.A. and N. E. Christians. 2002. Turfgrass root zones. Golf Course Management 70:97-100. Turner, T.R and Hummel, N.W. Jr. 1992. Nutritional Requirements and Fertilization. p. 416-417. In: D.V. Waddington, R.N. Carrow and R.C. Shearman (eds.) Turfgrass Agronomy Monographs No. 32. CSSA, Madison, WI. Table 1. Sufficiency ranges for tissue nutrient content of turfgrasses Element Content Nitrogen 2.8-3.5% Phosphorous 0.3-0.6% Potassium 1.0-2.5% Calcium 0.5-1.3% Magnesium 0.2-0.6% Sulfur 0.2-0.5% The Guelph Turfgrass Research Field Day submitted by Doug Breen On Tuesday August 17th, the Guelph Turfgrass Institute there would not be a turf research facility at Guelph was proud to once again host the annual field day at the today. “From tiny acorns, mighty oaks may grow”. turf research plots at their facility, just a stone’s throw Next on the agenda was the tour of the research plots. across Victoria Road from the campus of the University of Most notable, was the complete lack of disease on the Guelph. The weather for the day was perfect, and there pathology green. The nearly ideal conditions have saved was good representation from the various facets of the our courses a fair bit of money this year, but it certainly turfgrass industry, along with a number of academics, didn’t help to build data for the fungicide trials. There researchers and staff. were many interesting studies being carried out on the Rob Witherspoon called the proceedings to order and property, and the facility is truly amazing if you haven’t introduced the assembled group to Dr. Eric Lyons. Any seen it. There is a soil green, a USGA green, and a who have not yet had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Lyons, California green. There are trials carried out on “rough” I encourage you to do so. As a man who will have a lot to grasses under both irrigated and non- irrigated regimes. say about the future direction of turf research at the Seed trials, fertilizer trials, chemical trials, organic trials... University of Guelph, we all ought to take a few moments there is far more going on than I could ever describe to get to know him. It is very important that he get here. feedback from the industry to ensure that research is After the tours there was a very tasty lunch and pleasant timely, relevant, and applicable. conversation around the table. There is a lot to see at the It was appropriate that after introducing our newest GTI, and I encourage all of you to come out to the 2005 researcher, there was a plaque unveiled to pay tribute to field day and see it for yourself. It’s not that often that one of the Ontario Agricultural College’s most important you get the chance to “get down in the dirt” with the historic researchers, teachers, and mentors. Professor researchers at a world class facility like the one we have Ralph Goodwin-Wilson ’s name will permanently grace a right here in our own back yard. Who knows, the next big marker beside a commemorative tree at the entrance to breakthrough in turf science could be happening out the GTI main building. At the unveiling, and throughout there right now, and it could be because a PhD and a the day, many people spoke of Ralph Goodwin-Wilson’s Superintendent had a burger together and talked about commitment to the development of the science of the problem on his course. I look forward to seeing you turfgrass production, and the OAC’s role in that. It was all there next year. suggested by more than a few, that without his efforts, Dr Eric Lyons Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation course photos by Dorothy Hills On August 23rd. the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation’s annual golf tournament was held at the beautiful Burlington Golf and Country Club, a Stanley Thompson gem, established in 1922. The course was in immaculate condition thanks to the efforts of Superintendent, Pelino Scenna and his staff. This magestic, tree lined property offered a wonderful venue for this tournament, which marked the 25th anniversary of the founding of the OTRF. In recognition of the low gross and low net, silver plates were renamed after OTRF founders Paul Dermott and Alan Beeney. Thanks go out to Platinum Sponsor, Bayer Environmental Science and all of the other sponsoring companies and participating individuals who made the day a great success. The golf tournament is the major annual fund raising event for the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation. Chris Dew and his committee did a great job of organizing the tournament with the assistance John Gall and Paul Dermott photo by Erica Gunn of OTRF Office Manager, Cindi Charters. Canadian Golf Superintendents Association news The Fall Field Day tournament at will adequately outline the impressive educational and social Riverside CC, on September 20th, was aspects of this conference. I would like to again thank the an absolutely outstanding event. advisory committee members, who together with me formed Thanks to the co-sponsors, especially the basis of input in developing the broad range of programs, the Toro Company, for their support. in conjunction with our very capable CGSA headquarters staff Their partnership helps make events and our Executive Director, Ken Cousineau. Thanks to such as this possible. The pre- Committee members; Sean DeSilva (co-chair), Rob toumament seminar on Sunday was Ackermann, Paul Scenna, Jeff Stauffer, Bill Fach, Corrie also well received. A special recognition Almack, and Marie Thome. by Bob Burrows to the host superintendent, Doug The CGSA will be hosting various regional seminars in Rosedale Golf Club Campbell and his staff for providing Ontario in the near future. Please watch your mail, e-mail and access to this great facility in such great www.golfsupers.com for more information regarding condition. Thanks also goes to the Saskatchewan Turfgrass seminars this fall and winter in Ontario. There will be some Association for co-hosting the Saturday Skins game at Dakota great educational opportunities during this time in the Dunes GC. To continue with the success of this fall province. Plan now to attend a seminar in your region. With tournament, the Board is receiving and considering two input from the membership this summer, during the seven detailed submissions for this ever-popular September event. A regional focus groups, the Board will consider the date and venue will be announced shortly. recommendations of the education committee with respect to You will now be receiving the brochure for the joint continuing education requirements or other avenues CGSA/OGSA conference, January 6-11, 2005 in Toronto. available. This joint venture could conceivably be one of the biggest You will also be receiving the salary survey and IPM/BMP turfgrass conferences ever held in Canada. We look forward survey. Please take a moment to complete these valuable to this show, and we are extremely pleased and proud of the surveys on-line, and be eligible for a draw to win a CGSA prize. partnership involvement with the OGSA! If you have any Congratulations to Mr. Doug Meyer from Beaconsfield GC for suggestions or concerns regarding the 2005 event, please winning this year’s “Superintendent of the Year” award and to contact either Sean DeSilva or myself. Mr. Don Campbell for winning the John B. Steel award. It is my hope that the contents of the conference brochure 800S Series. Reliability. Durability. Performance. TURF CARE The 800S Series works every time, with smooth rotation for extended drive life and more than double the lightning protection to keep your system working. Built to last even the toughest conditions, with debris-resistant nozzles to eliminate clogging, a riser seal to protect against debris contamination and debris traps to prevent contamination and damage. Precise pressure regulation ensures the right amount of water where you need it. Exact flow and spray uniformity give superior coverage, reliable rotation speeds provide more control and save water. For more information, contact your Turf Care 800S Series Golf Sprinklers Irrigation Sales Representative or Customer Service at 1-800-561-1432 Reliability. Durability. TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA Performance. Count on it. www.toro.com Health & safety Fire Safety by DougJohnson, SAFETAID and Health and Safety Consulting First Aid and Safety Supplies and WHMIS Training As I sit here in the early fall in the bright warm sunshine • Also check out your electrical wiring. Sub standard it is tough to think about the way things might be if electrical wiring or electrical systems are a major cause of something goes wrong. Yet we should. We should plan fires. Remember that overloaded circuits have a ahead to ensure that we are doing everything reasonable to tendency to overheat and break down the insulation on ensure that our workplace is safe. This means taking the the wires. When this happens a surge in the draw is time to audit your workplace to identify potential risk areas sometimes all it takes to cause the arcing that will cause to ensure that the shop and other buildings are safe from a an electrical fire. potential fire. Have you taken the time to look around your • Ensure that all electrically operated equipment meets the shop and evaluate the area for a potential fire? Is this a CSA and /or UL standards for electrical equipment. priority for your club? As I have stated before when discussing emergency When I discuss fire safety it is not only the grounds procedures (winter 2001) it is important to have a well- keeping area that is a potential concern. You must look at defined workable fire emergency plan that is well designed all areas of the club including the clubhouse, storage areas and tested and works in your facility. If you think ahead and and the kitchen. Consider what the impact of a fire would are proactive about fire safety this will go a long way towards be on your club. Consider the potential losses. The effects eliminating a fire event at your club. of a fire can be devastating. Here is a link to the Ontario Fire Marshall - We never want to think about having to deal with a fire http://www.ofm.gov.on.ca situation. To avoid this devastation it is imperative that you review the identified areas that may be the potential cause This is only a very brief overview of some fire issues. Take of a fire and deal with potential fire situations to eliminate the time now to inspect your workplace and eliminate the possibility of fire. sources of fire before you are in crisis. If you need help contact someone and get help. This fall and winter inspect • Some of the things that you should consider when carefully. Plan ahead. Be prepared. Be safe. Think about looking for potential sources of fire would be storage of fire before it happens and have a safe and happy fall and gasoline, diesel and other flammable liquids (solvents, winter! paints and lubricants). • Disposal containers and garbage storage areas are a prime source for potential fires. • Check out your electrical rooms to ensure that there are SAFETAID no flammables stored near electrical panels. Flammables Your 1st stop in safety! in an electrical room could include cardboard boxes as well as flammable liquids or gases. Simon George Technical Sales Maple Turf Supply Business: (905) 857-2000 Corrie Almack P.Ag. 8112 King Rd. W. Fax: (905) 857-8215 P.O. Box 370 Mobile: (519) 841-3378 Bolton, Ontario 1-800-268-4425 Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 L7E 5T3 sg142@hotmail.com Box 256, Carlisle, On Fax: (905) 689-8522 LOR 1H0 E mail: c.almack@sympatico.ca Cyber super Ihad the pleasure of being http://urbanpestmanagement.ca. The Urban Pest invited to a meeting with Management Council of Canada deals with urban pest representatives from Croplife some management. According to the UPMC, the site still has time ago. Croplife is the trade some updates to be done due to its static nature. It is still association representing the a pretty solid site without the upcoming additions. I think manufacturers, developers and that everybody involved in the golf industry should not distributors of pesticides. The only read but also distribute all literature the site has to meeting involved what golf courses offer. In addition to pro-pesticide literature, it has the are doing with their used pesticide complete Pesticides Act for quick reference. containers. To their amazement, a The Croplife website has more of an interactive feel, by Mark Prieur, Assistant Supt. large portion of golf courses DO with links to other associations and a calendar of events. It Markland Wood CC NOT have a pesticide (or used also has limited literature on the West Nile Virus. The fertilizer) container recycling system great part about Croplife is the positive and professional setup. To my amazement, the agriculture industry has a image it projects with respect to the judicial use of huge recycling system currently in place that pesticides. It has an archive of media releases and even a accommodates all used containers. Did you know that a photo gallery to use in presentations (most of them are large portion of pesticide containers are recycled and agriculture photos). used for fence post manufacturing? I thought that golf In addition to the pro-pesticide use message Croplife was always a step ahead of agriculture in terms of sends, there is also information on Biotechnology and environmental stewardship (as the meeting went on, I was food safety. After reading both sections, one should feel made aware that we were ahead in some respects). At the well versed in dealing with any person who is anti­ end of the meeting I asked if Croplife had more pesticide. As with the UPMC site, everyone who grows information online for viewing... grass for a dollar should be well read in all the subjects The site, www.croplife.ca is really two sites in one. mentioned above. Look for a link on OGSA website for Croplife being the first of the two, the second site is the both Croplife and UPMC. Mechanic's corner by Larry A. Murray, President G.E.T.A.O. Equipment Manager, Pheasant Run Golf Course ^^n September 9, 2004 the Golf Equipment Association The winning team with an amazing score of 63 were: of Ontario held it’s annual golf tournament at Silver Lakes Tom Bowen, Jason D’Andrea and Gari Ingersta. This is the Golf and Country Club. It proved to be a day of records. first time that a threesome won the main prize. It was the first time that the tournament was delayed because of a hurricane, as Ivan paid us a visit! We also had One record that still stands is, no winning team has ever record attendance, and the largest support for the prize been able to put their name on the trophy twice. table. The day started off with heavy rain, but a 30 minute This year the Board of Directors hosted a very successful delay proved that even a hurricane couldn’t spoil our day breakfast meeting prior to the tournament. It was the of golf and association. Jim Nicholls and his crew had the first time enough members were in attendance to vote on course in good shape, despite the rain. The Silver Lakes and discuss serious association matters. Plans are staff were very hospitable to the enjoyment of all underway for next year and hopefully we won’t have a attendees. hurricane attending! Pesticides Regulations for Golf Courses submitted by Cathy Wright Curlew • Pesticides Specialist Central Region Ministry of the Environment The Ontario Pesticides Act and Regulation 914 provide For schedule 1, 2 and 5 pesticides: the province’s regulatory framework for pesticide • The storage area must be vented to the outside management to protect human health and the natural atmosphere environment. The Ministry of the Environment, through • No floor drain to a municipal sewer or storm system the legislation, regulates the sale, use, transportation, may be present in the storage area storage and disposal of pesticides. The Ontario Pesticides • Adequate protective equipment must be available Advisory Committee (OPAC) recommends classification for immediately outside of the storage area in the event of pesticides that are federally registered into six different a spill schedules for sale, storage and use in Ontario. The Ministry • The storage area must be locked to permit authorized monitors compliance and enforces the regulation. Mainly entry only through education and training, the ministry provides direction on the responsible use of pesticides and For schedule 1 and 5 pesticides: encourages and promotes reduced reliance on pesticides • The storage area must be used exclusively for the through integrated pest management (IPM) practices. storage of pesticides to prevent contamination in the In the summer of 2004, the Ministry of the Environment’s event of a spill Central Region office visited golf courses in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). These visits were part of an effort to Pesticides must be stored in the original container from the increase awareness of the provincial pesticides legislation manufacturer. If the container becomes damaged the and to promote voluntary compliance among industry secondary container must be similar in type and of the same stakeholders. The following areas of the provincial composition as the manufacturers (e.g. plastic replaces pesticides legislation were emphasized during the visits: plastic, glass replaces glass). A secondary storage container licencing, storage and disposal of pesticides, mixing and must have a label indicating the trade name, all active handling of spray solutions containing pesticides, and public ingredients and concentrations and the Federal Pest notification of pesticide use. Control Products Act (PGP) registration number. Licensing Empty pesticide containers must be triple rinsed and In order to use certain pesticides on golf courses an delivered to a pesticide container collection site in appropriate exterminator licence is required. Different accordance with Ontario Regulation 347 under the licences may be required depending upon the type of Environmental Protection Act (EPA). Rinse water from pesticide used and the pest that is being controlled. To empty containers must be emptied into the spray tank and control pests on turf and ornamental plants a Landscape used in the extermination or disposed of in accordance with Exterminator Licence is required. To control vegetation in O. Reg. 347 under the EPA. Obsolete or unregistered ponds and aquatic environments an Aquatic Vegetation pesticides are waste and must be registered by the generator Exterminator Licence is required. For controlling and shipped for appropriate disposal by a certified waste mosquitoes and biting flies, a Mosquito / Biting Fly hauler in accordance with O. Reg. 347 under the EPA. The Exterminator Licence is required. The proper exterminator registration status of pesticides may be searched at Health licence is obtained after the successful completion of a Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) home-study course and written exam. A certified technician www.eddenet.pmra-arla.gc.ca/4.0/4.0.asp or at the OPAC may work under the indirect supervision of a valid licence website www.opac.gov.on.ca. holder; in order to become a certified technician a Ministry approved basic pesticide safety course must have been Mixing and Handling of Pesticides successfully completed within the past two years. Precautions must be taken to prevent contamination of the natural environment when mixing and handling pesticides. Storage and Disposal When filling from a well, lake, pond, river or other surface The Ministry of the Environment’s pesticide regulations water source the water taking equipment must have an require pesticides to be stored in a manner that does not effective device to prevent back-flow. Spray equipment must pose a health risk or risk of contaminating the natural not be cleaned or rinsed near a well, lake, pond, river or environment. The following must be followed when storing other surface water source in a manner that would allow for pesticides: pesticide to enter the water source. Appropriate safety • Pesticides must be stored in a manner so they are not equipment must be used in accordance with the pesticide likely to impair the health and safety of others product label. • Pesticides must not be stored in a manner that would allow contact with food or drink Public Notification • The storage area must be clean and orderly and in good Golf courses are considered public areas under the repair provincial pesticides legislation therefore; public • Pesticides must not contaminate the natural notification is required for all pesticide applications. The environment or other pesticides stored in the area public notification requirements include: • A chemical storage warning sign must be posted on all • Conspicuously posting public area size (51 cm x 38 cm) entrances to the pesticides storage area Pesticide Use Signs 24 hours before the pesticide • Emergency phone numbers must be posted near the application at all ordinary points of access to the golf pesticides storage area course Pesticides Regulations for Golf Courses continued... • Public area pesticide use signs must also be posted 24 hours in advance, every 100 meters along the The Director Under the Pesticides Act perimeter of the treatment area Ministry of the Environment • Pesticide Use Signs must not be posted on trees, 40 St. Clair Ave W, 7th floor fences, sign boards or buildings Toronto, ON M4V 1M2 • Pesticide Use Signs must remain posted for a minimum of 48 hours and a maximum of 10 days The request must be supported by one of the conditions in O. Reg. 914s.68 (1): If the golf course is in a rural area or is surrounded by 1. the notification requires posting greater than 20 signs fencing or other barriers that restrict unauthorized access 2. the golf course is in a rural area and is on a public then, public area pesticide use signs may be posted around thoroughfare the perimeter of the treatment area immediately before the 3. the golf course is in a rural area and is on land against pesticide application provided that one of the following is which a public utility or other public work has a right performed**: of way 1. Posting public signs at all access points 24 hours in 4. public access is sufficiently limited to justify doing so advance 2. Posting 24 hours in advance at all locations where If number 4 is your reason for requesting alternative visitors come into contact with staff notification then a description of the measures that limit 3. Distributing written notices to all visitors 24 hours in public access as well as a description of how alternative advance notification could be provided is required. For example: posting 24 hours in advance at all access points, 1st and 10th **Keep in mind that the perimeter of the treatment area must still be tees, pro-shop and clubhouse. posted every 100 meters immediately before the pesticide application. For more information contact the Ministry of the If greater than 20 signs would need to be posted or access to Environment Regional Pesticide Specialist in your area. Or the application area is sufficiently limited to justify doing so, get a copy of the Pesticides Act and Regulation 914 by an alternative method of notification may be approved by visiting the Ministry’s homepage at www.ene.gov.on.ca or call the Director Under the Act. A request for alternative the public information centre at 1-800-565-4923. notification may be sent to: Accreditation avenue by Jeff Stauffer Director of Government Relations the winter season approaches, many people will be provincial government to acknowledge and address the preparing their information to submit for IPM problems being created by the municipal councils across Accreditation desk reviews. While, the process is new to the province. The pesticide fight continues in many areas most, you may find it refreshing to reflect on the past and will never truly go away, but with your help we can year’s records and begin to look forward to next year and make a difference that hopefully, will allow us to continue where possible improvements may or may not be possible. our responsible use of pesticide products. Desk review forms are available on the website Also, the CGSA/OGSA conference brochure will be www.ontarioipm.com. You may have noticed during this reviewed over the next while by the IPM Council of year’s conference and trade show in Toronto, a Canada to identify the certified education units available presentation will be made showing successful desk review for each seminar, session and topic. This information will forms from last year and thoughts will be shared towards be made available once ready, as you prepare for your making the process a rewarding one for all. attendance to this exciting program. The OGSA supports the IPM Accreditation program as an important venture. Industry continues to approach the Those who have not yet enrolled in the program but wish MOE to adopt and include it in their provincial to may contact Ridgetown College through the website, legislation. We, in the golf industry must show, through also at www.ontarioipm.com. participation in the program, our support, in order for the Memberprofile Interview with Andrew Keffer Executive Director of Turf Operations, Clublink Corporation Over a quiet breakfast in the confines of individual course, Andrew tells me each We talked about the recent spring of the clubhouse at Clublink’s recently superintendent is indeed managing the 2004 and some of the changes amongst unveiled project, Glencairn Golf Club, I individual golf course. the ranks. He feels that working for sat with OGSA member Andrew Keffer Clublink may be a little misunderstood and we talked about his evolution in the “Once the superintendents have their within the industry. golf course industry. Andrew started as individual budgets approved, it is up to them He tells me it was an exciting time and many of us have, mowing golf course turf to administer it. It isn’t like we hover over he explained how great he believed the through high school. As time progressed, every course, they manage on a local level changes were for the company and, more he worked himself into the position of and we provide a support system and the importantly, the individuals in the midst assistant superintendent at a private club. opportunity to share ideas and technical of all the change. Ironically that very club, Emerald Hills information. I think we have a great pool of Golf Club, near Stouffville, became one people who are professional and work very, “It’s great to see guys like Blair,Jay and Craig of Clublink’s originals. As Clublink grew very hard. ” move on to new challenges outside of Clublink so did internal opportunities and Andrew and within the industry. I would like to think was offered his first superintendent’s job Andrew reflects fondly on the time at it’s a testament to the experiences they at Greystone Golf Club, in Milton, Rattlesnake. We look back upon a photo gathered while with us. I have alwaysfelt we following his graduation from the taken of the maintenance team, and the offer a genuine opportunity to grow within University of Guelph. It was through number of now Clublink super­ the industry. ” these years with Clublink that Andrew intendents in the mix is astounding. Neil credits Jim Molenhuis for having the Boyd at Eagle Ridge, Chris Safruk at As for future challenges, the company largest influence on his career. After Diamondback and Dan Tonkin at has slowed new development somewhat some time buffing and polishing Greenhills are all former “Rattlesnakes.” and will be focused on continuously Greystone, taking it towards it’s There are others too; Craig McCutcheon improving the “Clublink Experience” for unrealized potential, Andrew moved to a now with Turf Care’s agronomy division their golfing customers at existing property just south east of Milton. is a Rattlesnake/Keffer disciple, Paul facilities. In spite of 12,000 members and Clublink was now growing at a torrid Gurr of Grand Niagara, Blair Rennie of more than 800,000 rounds of golf, pace and part of that growth included Whitevale and Jason Honeyball of Andrew feels there is always room for new development as well as acquisition. OslerBrook all have also felt the improvement. He insists there is more Andrew’s charge at that time was to be a influence of working with Clublink and competition than ever and that courses 45 hole construction and grow in now Andrew. I paused and remembered back like Eagle’s Nest and Copper Creek are known as Rattlesnake Point Golf Club. to Hugh Kirkpatrick telling me how fine examples of a bar that seems to be He now works out of Clublink’s offices in proud he was to have a number of his continuously rising. King City overseeing turf operations for former assistants out working in the Finally, I asked Andrew what might be the corporation. Although the company industry. I started counting all those next for him. He smiled the smile of a has streamlined a number of Andrew has influenced, but I quickly ran contented man. So, we left it just like maintenance components at each out of hands. that. "In the Hot Seat" • Favourite Major? British Open • Ultimate Foursome...you and what three? Jack Nicholson, Tiger Woods and Stanley Thompson • Favourite course outside of Canada? Royal Dornoch • Favourite piece of turf equipment? Toro triplex greens mower • Low round and where? 74, Rattlesnake Point GC, Sidewinder course • Favourite Food? Steak and potatoes • What’s in the CD player right now? Nothing, only news and weather on the radio • Rate the home lawn on a scale of 1-10? I think it’s a 9.5...it’s Greystone after all! (Andrew lives on the property) • “Next” Stanley Cup pick? Die hard Leaf fan but the gut says Ottawa • What would you be doing if you were not in the turf industry? Stockbroker The New direction inturf protection Introducing new COMPASS 50WG strobilurin fungicide from Bayer Environmental Science. COMPASS has everything you need in a fungicide: excellent disease control, broad spectrum activity and low use rates. With its revolutionary mesostemic mode of action, COMPASS binds tightly to turf and redistributes itself. This prevents infection and maintains continuous NEW protection of the treated and nearby turf plants for up to 21 days. Learn more about COMPASS Compass 50WG FUNGICIDE today - the new direction in turf protection. www.bayeres.ca 1-888-283-6847 ALWAYS READ PRODUCT LABEL PRIOR TO USE. Compass is a registered trademark of Bayer. Always read and follow label directions. Keeping Our Heads Above Water by Jennifer Pendrith, Superintendent Kawartha Golf & Country Club Those who know me well will likely tell you that I can (or catch the next plane leaving for Mexico). Our rain get a bit stressed out at the best of times. With this in gauge read 6 inches. It only holds 6 inches. It was literally mind, you can imagine my mental state when the events of overflowing by the time we got to it, so we dumped it out July 15th, 2004 unfolded. and set it up for another round. We collected another That morning started out like any other day in inch-and-a-half that morning, totalling more than 7 1/2 Peterborough this season...it was raining... AGAIN! I inches in less than 8 hours. prepared myself for another day of pumping bunkers and We headed out on the course to assess the situation. repairing washouts, which, much to the dismay of our The rain was still falling steadily, so it was hard to entire staff, had become a part of our regular routine this determine the true extent of the damage at that point. year. Aside from the usual storm problems (bunker washouts, I set out to work, totally unprepared for what lay ahead. flooded fairways, debris strewn over the course), our 12th My usual 5-minute drive to work turned into an hour-long and 13th bunkers had completely collapsed. Bunker sand navigation around the city, trying to find a way past the blanketed areas of our greens and fairways were covered water. I’d never seen anything like it in my life. Roads had in gravel. The course was a complete disaster. been transformed into white water rapids, sewers were This mess, however, paled in comparison to the areas erupting like geysers and cars were up to their windows in bordering our creek, which is located downstream from a water. My thoughts then turned to the golf course, as I residential development. The water was rushing so fast tried to imagine what kind of situation I was about to that it would have taken with it anyone and anything in its encounter. I knew it wasn’t going to be pretty, which in path. Our entrance roadway, which provides the only hindsight was a huge understatement. I decided to plow access-point to the clubhouse, resembled a scaled-down through the water and take my chances. version of Niagara Falls and was now a crumbled pile of I met my assistant, Gavin at the shop. We looked at each rubble. Half of the road and the material underneath had other dumbfounded, not knowing whether to laugh or cry been washed downstream. One of our main irrigation 12 Bunker Before 12 Bunker After - reconstructed by Assistant Superintendent Gavin Carnegie 11th Green Gavin Carnegie lines now lay crooked and bent in its remains. shovelling sand. It’s hard to put into words how grateful I Thankfully, our 12th tee that, had been completely overrun was for all the help we received. by knee-high rushing water, was still intact, but the asphalt The whirlwind began. We had a crew of 60 people to path, banks and trees along the creek beside it were organize, we had to meet the city engineer to assess the completely destroyed. What used to be a cement bridge waterway damage, meet with the conservation authorities now stood like an island amongst piles of silt, rock, pieces to implement an immediate course of action, talk with the of road, chunks of shoreline and large cedar trees. city environmentalists to address the sewer situation, Our 11th green, which was the storm’s last victim before discuss the damage with our insurance adjuster, come up exiting our course, took it the hardest. The force of the with a plan to inform the members, direct the water, combined with the rock and debris it carried along construction company and attend emergency meetings. with it, created a hole 3 feet deep and the size of a small Trust me, there’s no course you can take or book you can pick-up truck. The silt, gravel and rocks that didn’t end read that can prepare you for this kind of situation. up in the hole were now spread over half of the green. To We made more progress that day than I had ever make matters worse, we discovered that the city sewer line imagined possible. We had 5 or 6 crews at various sites on running through our course had backed up and was the course, and by that evening all the major tasks were spurting out gallons of sewage beside the creek next to the completed. None of it would have been possible without 11th green. the help we received from the community and the hard Feeling completely overwhelmed at this point and not work of our members. By the end of the weekend, we’d knowing even where to begin, Gavin and I developed a accomplished our goals. The 11th green was still closed, plan to get the course open again as soon as possible. since the entire waterway was in need of the expertise of With so much damage to contend with, it was important engineers and hydrologists... but that’s a story in itself. for us to stay focused on the areas that needed immediate We opened the course within a few days, proud of what attention. First and foremost we needed to open the we had accomplished in such a short time. And then 2 roadway and regain access to the clubhouse, pro shop and days later, more rain. With the course already saturated, parking lot. With so much damage spread over the entire the extra inch of rain had nowhere to go. There was city, construction crews were working round-the-clock. nothing we could do but close the course again. This cycle But we reacted quickly enough to hire a local company continued, over and over, during the course of the and get them on-site that very same day. Amazingly, they following two weeks, totalling close to 13 inches of water. had our road back in full use by 6 o’clock the next We were closed for a total of 9 days. To this day we’re still evening. dealing with the effects the flood. In the meantime, we had a golf course to put back It’s hard to imagine that anything positive could come together. We planned our attack by focusing on areas from such a disaster, but our story has a happy ending. piece-by-piece. Removing the piles of silt and gravel from The devastation that the course suffered during the flood the turf was our first priority. With a staff of only 13 brought a lot of pending issues to the forefront. We’re people, we wondered if it was even possible. now in the midst of developing a strategic plan for the golf What happened next blew my mind. Calls started course, which includes rebuilding our waterway, pouring in from other golf courses in the area offering us implementing our drainage improvement plan, anything they could to help us out. Members were upgrading our irrigation system and restoring our gathering to offer their time and effort to help pick up the bunkers. Although it’s hard to imagine right now, I know pieces. We had over 40 volunteer members that took so I’ll look back on the disaster and be grateful for the much pride in their course that they were willing to get experience and the opportunities it provided. right into the middle of it all, scraping up gravel and Golf course highlight Muskoka Lakes Golf & Country Club 1330 Ferndale Road, Port Carling ON P0B 1J0 Golf Course Superintendent: James Flett COURSE PROFILE What major tournaments have been held? 1 - Ditchwitch trencher Ontario seniors 2002 and 2004 1-3 point hitch cultivator What county is your club located in? 1 - PTO snowblower Muskoka What type of irrigation system? 1 - Western snowplough Single row electric Toro heads, 1 - Proseed 5560 Is your club private, semi private, public, resort or Rain Bird satellites/central 1 - Express Dual Reel Grinder municipal? 1 - Express Dual Bedknife grinder Private with 1,568 members What is the size of greens, tees & fairways? 110,000 sq ft of greens 1 - Express Dual Master Rotary Blade Grinder Typical number of rounds 80,000 sq ft of tees 1 - Lazor Plane laser level 17,000 to 19,000 rounds per year 21 acres of fairways 1 - Wire finder Typical opening and closing date What is your predominant grass? Beginning of May to end of October Poa/Bent COURSE PROJECTS How many USGA and loam greens? What projects have you recently completed? How long have you been a superintendent? 5 USGA, 1 California, 12 loam greens 2004 - New fairway bunkers in 8 & 11, 16 years new fertilizer/chemical loading and What is the predominant soil type? Coverall cold storage building upper yard How long have you been an O.G.S.A. member? 12 years Clay (south side of road), Sand (lakeside) 2003 - Pond by 3T, 7G, mounds along right side of 1F What equipment do you have in inventory? 2002-#5 Forward tee, pro shop List other accomplishments 4 - Toro Flex 21 Walk-behind green mowers landscaping OGSA board member from1995 - 2004 4 - Toro 1600 Walk-behind tee mowers Board President in 2002 8 - Toro Transpro trailers LONG RANGE PLANS How many staff? 1 - Toro 3100 triplex 1 - Toro 3150 triplex What long range plans for renovation do you 5 year round and 12 seasonal staff 1 - set Thatchaway dethatching units have in the next five years? 2 - Toro 5400 Fairway mowers 2005- New pump station Who are your assistants and mechanics? 1st Assistant: Robert Eagleson 1 - set Toro fairway verticut reels 2006- New irrigation system 2nd Assistant: Jay Sisko 2 - Toro 3500-D rotary Sidewinders 2007- Upgraded maintenance facility Mechanic: Ron Allen 1 - Prog. PF 120 rotary rough gang mowers 4 - Carryall II utility vehicles CHALLENGES How many gardening staff? 1 - Toro Sandpro 3020 Are there any particular challenges you face 1 full time: Kerry Sheahan & 1 part time: 1 - Toro Sandpro 5020 with blade & blower with your property? 3 - Toro 2100 Workmans Course is wet and low-lying close to lake COURSE STATISTICS 2 - Toro 3300 Workmans level (need the pumps for positive 2 - John Deere turf gators drainage in certain areas) How many holes? 1 - John Deere 6x4 gator Control of moss on greens 18 1 - Yamaha golf cart Too busy in July and August (can’t aerate 1 - EZGO electric cart greens until September) What is the yardage from back and forward tees? 1 - Toro 5500 sprayer with Raven controller 6,000 yards from the back tees and and Databoy GPS logger SUCCESS STORIES 5,000 yards from the front tees 2 - Kubota L4310 tractors (1 with cab) 1 - Kubota L3300 loader tractor with Do you have any success stories? How many bunkers? Grademaker Completed the majority of course projects 63 (61,000 sq.ft.) 2 - Super Tilt dump trailers in-house without an architect 1 - Goosen vacuum How many times does water come into play? 1 - Buffalo PTO blower Please list any innovative cultural practices 3 ponds come into play 4 times 1 - Case 1840 skidsteer with backhoe you may perform. 1 - Tycrop MH400 Frequent greens overseeding with Who was the original architect? Jacobsen slit-seeder 1 - Tycrop Propass 180 Stanley Thompson (his first solo effort) 1 - Jacobsen slitseeder Monthly Primo Maxx applications to 1 - TurfCo sod cutter greens What was the year of original construction? Monthly Primer applications on greens 1 - Multicore MC-15 fairway aerator 1919 Applied over 6 lbs of K on greens this 1 - Multicore greens aerator 1 - Aerway slit-disc aerator season By whom and when was the course remodeled? 1 - Ryan drum fairway aerator Fairway topdressing Thom McBroom 1988 Master plan 1 - John Deere 800 greens aerator Vertidrain late fall and leave holes open 1 - Lely tow-behind spreader for drainage 59th Annual Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament submitted by Dorothy Hills The October 5th weather was Thanks to the hospitality and gave a brief history on Alex picture perfect for the 144 eager organization of the Muskoka Lakes McClumpha, then called on Jim Flett OGSA members and guests, who staff, the entire day was really to congratulate him and present him gathered on the shores of Lake enjoyable. We would like to especially with the Host Superintendent plaque. Rosseau to wrap up the OGSA golf thank Bill Wight, General Manager, Jim acknowledged the time and efforts season at the Muskoka Lakes Golf & Raffaele Occhiuzzi, Club House put forth by his crew, and particularly Country Club. Our host Manager, Jennifer Stephen, Food and Rob Eagleson and Jay Sisko, his superintendent, Jim Flett and his crew Beverage Manager, and Diane and assistants. presented us with an immaculate Ross Conklin, Pro Shop. As usual, our associate members course, woven through a canvas of Rob Ackermann, welcomed came through with an abundance of spectacular fall colour and affording us everyone and introduced our special donated prizes, among them were All a view of the lake at some of the stops guests: Eric Lyons, University of Turf, who donated a 3L bottle of along the way. Some of us experienced Guelph’s turfgrass research scientist; Crown Royal, Johne Deere who more stops than others, but regardless Rob Witherspoon, Director of the donated a Toy Tractor and Vanden of how you scored, we all came away Guelph Turfgrass Institute; Ken Bussche Irrigation, who donated 4 winners on this particular day. Cousineau, Executive Director of the tickets to see the Buffalo Bills play the Following our rounds, score cards CGSA; and Glenn Goodwin, the Pittsburgh Steelers, for our raffle. were left at the proshop for a speedy president and founder of the GTAGA, Plant Products donated a digital tabulation, while we retreated for a who is a huge supporter and camera to the superintendent who got delicious prime rib buffet dinner in the proponent of the OGSA. closest to the pin. beautifully renovated Boat House. Jeff Alexander, our MC for the night Winners of the Tournament Flight A - Flight B - Low Net Score Low Net Score Superintendents & Assistants Associates and Guests Lesley Thomas 67 Chris Baynham 67 Jon Pollington 68 Paul Brown 70 Low Gross Score Low Gross Score Greg Aljoe 69 Werner Rost 71 Bill Gilkes 73 Kevin Holmes 74 Closest to the Hole Closest to the Hole Neil Tandan 78 Jason D’Andrea 79 Jay Weiss Neill Smith Tom Brain 78 Gary Tate 80 Longest Drive Longest Drive Lesley Thomas Reilly O’Dwyer Ray Richards Hogan goes to from Mad River work with Rob accepts George Eagleson Darou Trophy everyday to from Ron Craig play and chase of Turf Care the geese photos by photos by Mark Prieur Rob Eagleson Jeff Alexander 16th Hole presents plaque to Jim Flett This year’s winner of the George Darou Trophy is Ray Richards from Mad River Golf Club. This trophy is awarded to the Superintendent, over 50 years of age with the best low gross score. The recipient must not have won it within the last 5 years. Hope to see you all out again next season. 3rd Annual Assistants Tournament submitted by Neil Tandan, Assistant Superintendent Weston Golf & Country Club The annual O.G.S.A. Assistants donation, Nu-Gro provided ball-caps “The Ridge” course to ensuring a big­ Tournament was held on September for all players, as well as a prize for screen television was made available 14^ at The Nottawasaga Resort in ‘Most Accurate Drive’. We wish to for diners to watch the World Hockey Alliston. Mother Nature cooperated make special thanks to the Nu-Gro Championship Final Game (Canada this year to provide ideal golf Corporation for all their help with vs. Finland). Peter attended to conditions... sunny and hot, which the tournament. details large and small. We’d like to indeed reminded many of the Thanks also must go to our also recognize Ron and Glen Harris, “summer that never was”. sponsor, Engage Agro, and all the in the Pro Shop, at Nottawasaga for The event has been elevated to other industry distributors who looking after the event scoring, another level by the generous provided prize donations and helped proximity/long drive signs, and skins contributions of the Nu-Gro create a spectacular prize table for all game. Finally, kudos to the catering Corporation, which has entered into to admire during dinner. Host department for a wonderful meal... a three-year agreement with the Superintendent, Peter White, and his nothing says summer like a O.G.S.A. to act as “Platinum staff must be recognized for their barbequed steak and even the Sponsor” for the Assistants efforts towards having a successful vegetarians in the crowd didn’t go Tournament. Along with a cash golf tournament. From preparing hungry! Congratulations to the following winners at the 2004 Assistants Tournament: 1st Low Gross: Bill Gilkes (Scarboro Golf & Country Club) 2nd Low Gross: Dave Paterson (Magna Golf Club) 3rd Low Gross: John Bell (Bigwin Island Golf Club) 1st Low Net: Chris Harvey (St. George’s Golf 8c Country Club) 2nd Low Net: Graeme Hughes (Maples of Ballantrae Golf Club) 3rd Low Net: Matt Dodson (Richmond Hill Golf Club) There is no doubt that this tournament is gaining momentum with significant improvements from year to year. The Tournament Committee is already excited about next year’s event. Be sure to check the O.G.S.A. website www.golfsupers.on.ca and Green Is Beautiful for updates regarding the date and venue for the 2005 Assistants Tournament. See you there! L-R Bill Gilkes, Scarboro G&CC & John Bladon, Nu-Gro Protecting your turf from Pythium all year long. Ever have those areas where no matter what you’ve tried the best alternative seems to be rip it up and start over. If turf is slow to come out of dormancy or does not respond to your usual management practices, Cool Season Pythium could be the culprit. The solution chipco Aliette T&O is Chipco Aliette T&O...apply and watch your problem areas green-up and grow. For more information contact Bayer Environmental Science FUNGICIDE www.bayeres.ca 1-888-283-6847 Quebec: 514-949-2467 • Ontario/Western Canada: 905-319-8981 Fighting Pythium at the root Ontario/Atlantic Canada: 519-239-3983 ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. Chipco Aliette T&O is a registered trademark of Bayer. 1st Annual 2nd Turf Classic submitted by James White, Superintendent Carruther’s Creek Golf Club Dawn broke at the Carruther’s Creek expansion which included a 9 hole continue as Donalda and Carruther’s Golf Centre on August 8th, 2004 and there championship course, driving range, and played to a 1-1 draw. Three more games was a new game in town. SOCCER! 18 hole bentgrass putting park. Did I followed, all close fought battles but in That’s right, soccer was the game of the mention we have soccer? Soccer the end it was Donalda and Oliver’s Nest day on this fine Sunday afternoon in rounded out the construction at to play for the ultimate bragging rights, Ajax, Ontario for the inaugural 2nd turf Carruther’s with the building of an each with one win and one tie. Donalda tournament. outdoor field and the conversion of a got off to a quick start and carried leads in I feel it is important at this point to massive bam to an indoor soccer facility. the first and second half but a late goal explain the name, seeing as I have had no The jewel in this crown is definitely the sealed the deal for Oliver’s Nest who end of grief and/or confusion regarding new LakeBreeze course. This 9 hole 3400 prevailed 3-2. Scott “the sniper” White its origin. Well, it is actually quite simple, yard facility was designed by Kevin took high scorer with an incredible 2 and not a typo! 2nd Turf is our pet name Holmes and expertly crafted by Jay goals in the final. for a soccer field because in our industry, Nargang of NLG. The first ever golf course staff soccer soccer turf is second only to golf turf. For the first annual event this season it tournament is now in the books and we This soccer tournament was conceived was decided that the number of teams consider it to be a great success. Feedback one afternoon in the late spring by would be restricted to a maximum of 5. from teams in attendance has been Jeanette Bayley Nargang who is both the This would allow us to host all the games positive leading us to start thinking about president of Salem Soccer (located at in one day on our single outdoor field next year. But, blazing a new trail is not Carruther’s Creek) and the same with the option to move indoors should always easy and we must mention those Nargang of golf construction fame NLG the weather turn. In very short order the who helped along the way including Construction, formerly Nar-Ley Golf. 5 entries came in and the tournament Jeanette and Jay Nargang from NLG, From the golf course perspective, I was on. The golf courses involved Allan Chiu for refereeing, the Carruther’s bought into the idea immediately, having included; Carruther’s Creek and Deer maintenance crew, and sponsors Utica spent several weekends of my career Creek from Ajax, The Donalda Club Golf and Turf, Frew Petroleum, Marigold involved in the annual softball from Toronto, Oliver’s Nest from Ford, and Plant Products. tournament. Jeanette and I felt that Lindsay, and Kawartha from Plans are already in the works for next there wasn’t an opportunity in the east Peterborough. With the cancellation of season and we are looking forward to end of the GTA, for golf courses to come the Kawartha team (hang in there guys, continuing this east-end tradition. together, have some fun, and network a we look forward to seeing you next year) Congratulations go out to the 2004 little. We also had the perfect facility! due to weather problems in Champions from Oliver’s Nest Golf Club The Carruther’s Creek Golf Centre is a Peterborough, we were down to our of Lindsay, Ontario. Watch out, I hear dynamic new facility in south Ajax. Built minimum of 4 teams. Starting at 1:00 some teams have already started on a property which was originally a p.m., each team would play 2 qualifying practicing in order to wrestle that trophy garden centre, Carruther’s has continued games and points would be awarded away when you defend the title in 2005! to expand annually to reach its current accordingly. The top two teams would be The Plant Products trophy can be viewed state. Golf simulator’s started the show in the final, competing for their place on at the home of the current champions up followed by construction of a nine- hole the Plant Products trophy. to November when it will return to await executive par 3. 2002/2003 saw a huge The first game saw the brotherly rivalry the next round. The Champs; Oliver's Nest Par Ex® with unique IBDU® precision slow-release technology provides Precision Performance consistent nutrient feeding whatever the season or weather conditions. for All Seasons Activated by a hydrolosis driven mode of action, Par Ex formulations deliver performance you can count on through the year on greens, tees, fairways, and roughs. For more information contact us at 1 •800-461-6471 Par Ex and IBDU are registered trademarks of Nu Gro IP Inc. Pink Grey When the only colour you want to see is green... Green ...choose the number one pink and grey snow mould preventer on the market Use Rovral Green GT to prevent Fusarium, pink snow Rovral Green GT FUNGICIDE mould and grey snow mould from damaging your greens, tees and fairways. Rovral Green GT, from Bayer Environmental Science, is the proven fungicide that has become the cornerstone to disease management programs across the country. For more information contact Bayer Environmental Science www.bayeres.ca 1-888-283-6847 Quebec: 514-949-2467 • Ontario/Western Canada: 905-319-8981 • Ontario/Atlantic Canada: 519-239-3983 ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. Rovral Green GT is a registered trademark of Bayer. gimmeshelter We Build • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • New Buildings • Wood & Steel Structures • Additions • and do Renovations For your FREE ESTIMATES call us at 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com Th e New Sweep-star V62 empty table cellSMITHCO Sweep-star V62 Competition Engine Liquid cooled - smoother, quieter, longer Air cooled, noisier, engine life, easier to service shorter life Hopper 4 plus cubic yards 3 plus cubic yards Clutch Electric-quiet operation when vacuum disengaged-easy cold starting No vacuum disengagement Tires 13" wide Fairway type tires - softer footprint 10” wide turf tires Controls User friendly controls within driver's reach Driver must dismount to start/set speed Hitch 5th wheel or standard tractor hitch Tractor hitch only Heavier, more-ragged construction Quieter operation, Easier dumping and clean-up 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 Visit our website at: www.gcduke.com The 104th United States Open Championship by Greig Barker, Assistant Superintendent North Halton Golf & Country Club Gaining major tournament experience is a served at 4:15 am). I started my week of work One of the most fun aspects of this chance to enhance a turf manager’s on the 20 + person divot crew. This was a experience was the chance to meet an knowledge. It also creates an opportunity to great way to see the entire golf course for the insurmountable number of people from all make new and exciting contacts and first time. It also created a great opportunity over the world. I was lucky enough to work relationships among the golf industry. The to talk and meet with people. During the with superintendents and assistants from amount of work that is put into preparing for practice rounds a number of different jobs Australia, New Zealand, Scotland, Korea, a national championship is astonishing, to say were still performed throughout the day. Hawaii, The Channel Islands, South Africa the least. There is an incredible amount of Since the bunkers at Shinnecock contain very and all over the continental United States. organization, time management and last but “natural” sand, pebbles being blasted on to The time that I was able to spend with these not least, agronomic knowledge. the greens became an issue. Throughout the people confirmed my opinion that the people week there was at least two people stationed at that make up our industry are some of the each green. We were armed with blowers and greatest people in the world. How many if a player needed his line cleared we “got the groups of people do you know that would give nod” and up we went. The majority of my up 2 out of their 5 hours of sleep to get week consisted of checking greens (Putting together to share a beverage (or two) and talk Greens, 13,17,15, and 18) on a constant basis about grass? Not too many. for wilt and syringing them if necessary. Once the heat subsided for the evening my task switched over to rolling a section of greens, then helping out with any jobs that were still to be completed. The job of syringing at the U.S. Open was exciting. With the way in which the week progressed, this job would become infamous and incredibly memorable. During the final round of the tournament I was part of the I was fortunate enough to volunteer at the “syringe team” on the now famous 7th Green 104th United States Open Championship at at Shinnecock. As a result of strong winds and Shinnecock Hills this past June. I will start an already very firm and severely sloped with the beginning of my venture, as it was a green, the green was declared unfair. The fairly long one. Approximately a year and a USGA decided to syringe between groups. As half before the tournament started I sent a we sat beside the green with our hose, our letter to Superintendent Mark Michaud, three-person team received “comments” from In all of our jobs, organization is very requesting a position on the volunteer staff a very “upset” and “motivated” New York important. For an event of this magnitude for the tournament. In January of 2004, I crowd. The spectators, as well as a lot of the organization becomes vital. Shinnecock Hills received a confirmation letter stating that a general golf population felt that this was an superintendent Mark Michaud and his spot had been saved in my name. unfair practice. All I will say is that during the assistants (Brian Goleski, Frank Hancock and Correspondence followed for the next six U.S. Open when the USGA tells you to Chase Cameron) did an outstandingjob. The months pertaining to everything from water.... you water. That is exactly what we logistics of having such a large number of uniform sizes, accommodation needs to time did. Our directions were that one of us was to volunteers that need housing, to be fed and of arrival. Once I was all set up on the staff at keep an eye on the USGA Agronomist (Tim directed are astounding. As the saying goes Shinnecock, it was all up to me to get to Long Moraghan) at all times and when he nodded, “there was no stone unturned” when it came Island. I made arrangements to be at the we were up and syringing. The actual time of to us. Uniforms were handed out, questions course on the Sunday prior to the syringing was about 30 seconds; it seemed like were answered and direction was given. Even tournament (the USGA requires all 30 minutes at times. Despite the crowd’s advice on a promising after work atmosphere volunteers to be at the site for the entire week reaction, we continued from 10:30 am until 4 at a few local pubs was provided. of the tournament). pm. In my opinion, there are only a couple of Once I arrived I was greeted by a buzz of things that a person needs to enjoy an activity around the entire property. Since experience like this one. First, you need the there were eighty of us volunteering for the interest and motivation to go out on a limb tournament it was easy to meet people and and contact the superintendent that is get acquainted. The entire volunteer staff was hosting the tournament. As I mentioned given room and board at Southhampton earlier, the people in our business are College, conveniently located right across the tremendous. Given the opportunity, any sane street from the Grounds Facility. Once we upcoming turf manager would jump at the were settled, it was back to the course for chance. Secondly, you need an dinner. It took about ten minutes for the staff understanding boss. To request time off and at the course to utilize the early arrival of attend the U.S. Open during the busiest time volunteers. I was still in my first hour on Long of our year is a tall order. I am lucky enough Island and I was already out on the historic to work for a superintendent who Shinnecock Hills working for the United understands the opportunities and benefits States’ biggest golf event. that this experience has provided me with. At about 9 pm we had an information This is an experience that I will never meeting for all of us newcomers. Uniforms Participating in such an event can be very forget. I would encourage any of our were given out (7 golf shirts, each day was a inspirational. Not only all of the agronomic members to participate in such an event. You different colour, a wind shirt and two hats). It activity that can be completed with a 130 will definitely come away with more than just was announced that our start time for the person staff, but the camaraderie among a an experience. week was going to be 4:30 am (breakfast was group of people aiming for the same goal. The Intelligent Use of Water SUPPLIERS OF TOP QUALITY TURF PRODUCTS FOR OVER FORTY YEARS No. 1 Kentucky Bluegrass Ontario Distributor of Pre-grown Dense turf with great colour Five varieties of Bentgrass (877) 727-2100 Grown on USGA spec, sand or native sand Extreme Fescue Erosion Control System (905) 727-2100 Drive on it—Park on it Drought resistant—ideal for naturalization Without damaging turf www. zandersod. com OGSA Election Election will take place at the Annual General Meeting, to be held on Tuesday, January 11th, during the OGSA/CGSA Conference. Nomination forms have been mailed out to all eligible voting members. Eligible voting members consist of Class AA Active, Class A and Class B members. If you have not received a nomination form, please advise the OGSA office and one will be sent to you. Upgrades, Renovations & New Installations Seed • Turf Chemicals • Golf Course Supplies From evaluation and design to implementation, 1-800-263-1293 705-431-0561 Vanden Bussche www.allturf.ca Irrigation and Rain Bird When Falling Leaves will partner with you to Will Let Us See... succeed in achieving Dead, dying, weak and diseased branches should be removed your irrigation goals. All your needs for all your turf or supported to: • reduce wind resistance • provide less surface for heavy ice and snow • remove entry points for insect Ontario Representatives and disease pathogens Take advantage of our FREE CHRIS SHEPPARD BRUCE STANLEY Inspection program. 416-991-4572 416-991-4595 Toronto • (416) 657-2059 CARA SHEPPARD Bracebridge • (705) 646-8733 416-991-4597 Gravenhurst • (705) 687-0696 Huntsville • (705) 789-0929 www.bartlett.com Milton 1.800.263.4112 MICHAEL FRASER DAVID SIM 905-651-4515 BACKED BY THE BARTLETT TREE RESEARCH King City 1.866.703.KING 905-260-2183 LABORATORIES AND EXPERIMENTAL GROUNDS, CHARLOTTE, NC www.vandenbussche.com Off the fairway ... 2005 Joint Conference Preview The CGSA has asked me to Sue Clarke from the Niagara Parks School of coordinate an educational program Horticulture will present “Selection and Care of Shrubs on for golf course gardeners during the the Golf Coure”. Deciduous shrubs will go a long way to CGSA/OGSA conference. The brighten up corners of the golf course, identify the 150 horticulture program will take place marker and add sculpture and beauty to garden beds. on Tuesday January 11, 2005, the final Dwarf evergreens add an element of formality and provide by Daisy Moore day of the conference. The cost for winter interest and early spring colour. Sue will bring her the day will be $115- which includes lunch and a pass to extensive experience as an instructor and horticultural the trade show. The horticulture program will be a great manager to help you select and maintain beautiful shrubs. opportunity for gardeners to meet their peers, share ideas “Native Plant Gardening” will be presented by Charles and learn from horticultural experts. There will be Kinsley of Ontario Native Plant. Charles is a renowned something for every type of gardener and every type of expert in the cultivation and propagation of native plants. golf club at the horticultural program during the He is also involved with ecological restoration projects conference. Mark January 11, 2005 on your calendar and throughout the province where he is called upon to be sure to send the gardener from your club, someone develop stable plant communities in various habitats. who is interested in learning more or participate yourself. Native plants are highly decorative when included in the Everyone is sure to be inspired by the excellent line up of cultivated garden. As an added bonus, they are good for speakers. the local wildlife and tend to look after themselves. Out- of-play areas don’t have to be a mess of burdock, thistles Here is a preview of some of the topics: and weeds. Charles will discuss how native plants can be “Twiners, Stickers, Clingers & Hookers" will be presented included in all areas of the golf course. by Chris Graham. Chris worked for many years as the Daisy Moore will present “Gardening on the Golf Course”. chief horticulturist at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Daisy is a horticultural consultant and garden designer. Hamilton. He is now a nurseryman in Sutton, Ontario She has worked with many golf clubs and golf course and runs the company Britali Gardens. He is very gardeners to help improve the appearance of the gardens. knowledgeable about plants from around the world and She will discuss the mechanics of getting the job done and those that stand the test of time in our climate. Chris will how best to perform the job of a golf course gardener. show us how to use vines and climbers to improve the This includes setting priorities, being resourceful and appearance of fences, walls and barriers. learning to be ruthless in order to make things beautiful. Ornamental grasses are all the rage in garden design. Gardening on the golf course has many unique Janet Anderson fromJEA Perennials in Strathroy, Ontario challenges. On the other hand, the golf course offers a will present, “Perennials and Ornamental Grasses in Public remarkable opportunity to showcase plants, build Spaces”. Gardeners will learn about the choices available beautiful gardens and enhance the outdoor experience. in ornamental grasses, about new and noteworthy As a final portion of the program, there will be a panel perennials and how to combine plants for maximum of golf course gardeners who will share tips and lead a effect. Janet is renowned for selecting and propagating discussion on some of the main challenges that they face. top quality plants. If you would like to nominate your gardener to For those gardeners who like to help the clubhouse participate in the final panel, please send me an e-mail at chef, there will be a speaker on herbs. Koidu Sulev from daisy@daisymoore.com. For more information about the Richter’s Herbs will talk about “using herbs in the conference contact the CGSA office at ornamental garden”. Tri-colour sage, hyssop, germander www.golfsupers.com and chives can all add a unique beauty to gardens. Koidu will offer up several examples of useful and decorative Visit my website www.daisymoore.com for more tips on herbs. She will discuss selection, care and how to harvest gardening.. herbs. Turf or consequences by Doug Breen, Superintendent Golf North Form and Function have a new pet peeve to add to the ever growing list of my pet peeves. If any of you have been keeping track, this is pet peeve number 427. (What a great engine the 427 was, eh? And not a bad highway either - gets me to Woodbine Racetrack.) What was I talking about? Oh yes, pet peeve number 427... people building stuff that’s impossible to maintain. This is my open letter to engineers, architects, and Ultimately, the green is a putting surface, and no matter how all the other people who seclude themselves in ivory towers, dramatic it looks, if 90% of the green can’t have a pin on it... a la Victor Frankenstein, and never have to deal with the abominations that they sometimes create. do the math... from a superintendent’s perspective, you just built a one thousand square foot green. Let me give you an example. Is it reasonable that I should Let’s talk about bunkers. It rained a bit last summer. Many have to remove the engine mounts and jack up the mower to modem bunkers have two story high sand flashes perched exactly 3.28” higher on one side than the other, then insert precariously on 89.99999 degree angles. Do I need to go on? the special $1500 tool into the slot that is always full of dirt, The ball will not stay up there, the sand will not stay up there, oil, and grass clippings, turn it three times to the left followed a stinking mountain goat can’t stay up there. Sure, it looks by a half turn to the right (other way round if built in an odd cool from the road as long as the course has a bunker crew model year), then knock three times on the steering wheel of galley slaves to look after them, but it’s no different than with a newt’s tail, sacrifice a goat, and say a magic incantation to change a fan belt? deciding that the lines on a car would be more dramatic if you didn’t need those pesky doors. To change the alternator in my wife’s car, you have to loosen two engine mounts and jack up the motor by the oil pan. That’s no big deal, because alternators never wear out. I I’ll leave you with this thought. used to have a utility vehicle that we had to jack the front end Question: How many staff does it take to change a light bulb about a foot off of the ground to remove the spark plugs, designed by a golf course architect? which were well placed on the bottom of the cylinders where they never fouled, because as we all know, carbon particles Answer: About a dozen guys, seven days a week for routine defy gravity. maintenance, but whenever it rains, every bulb on the At least the engineer who designed the body part that property will bum out. (And wait until you see the price tag makes it impossible to remove the dipstick from the engine, on the pretty white light bulbs that he specs!) can hide behind the shroud of anonymity. We have absolutely no idea who this person is, how it could have happened, or why the designers wouldn’t have bounced these ideas off of a mechanic before the final design was approved. With architects, on the other hand, they have their name splashed all over the things that they create. It must be a little intimidating. I’m not sure that I’d want someone following me around with a stack of 4X8 foot signs, labeling every project I’ve ever been involved with. There are lots of days that I don’t even want to claim my children, let alone my dog. I know that there are more than a few retaining walls, flower bed designs, duct tape/strapping/weld jobs and the like, where I’m glad there isn’t a sign that says, “Another fine project by Doug Breen and Associates”. Sure, that “Associates” word spreads the blame around a bit, but ultimately it’s your name up front. And this is why I find it amazing to see some of the non- maintainable designs that I see golf course architects creating. If my name was on the score card, the entrance sign, and all of the courses advertising literature, I think I’d avoid building a 10,000 square foot green with only two reasonable pin placements. Form must follow function. Nu-Gro Corporation In Memorium Dr. Houston B. Couch Internationally Renowned Turfgrass Pathologist John Bladon July 1, 1924 to September 12, 2004 IPM Coordinator / Technical Sales Dr. Houston B. Couch - one of the worlds first full time, academically Tel: 519.757.0077 appointed turfgrass pathologists, who developed an international reputation Cell: 519.574.2013 over his illustrious career, passed away Sunday night, September 12, at 11:30 jbladon@nu-gro.ca p.m. at Montgomery Regional Hospital in Blacksburg, Virginia. He was born on July 1, 1924, and earned his bachelor’s degree from Tennessee Technological University in Cookeville in 1950, and his doctorate from the University of California at Davis in 1954. He finished his career as Professor of Plant Pathology at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA. Dr. Couch’s first appointment was as an Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Pathology at The Pennsylvania State University in 1954. He went to Virginia Tech in 1965 to serve as Head of the Department of Plant Pathology and David C. Smith, A.Ag., C.G.C.S. 185 Oriole Crescent Physiology. Under his nine year tutelage twelve faculty members were hired, Soil & Turfgrass Consultant Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P1C6 a Plant Protection non- thesis program was offered, the Glade Road Research Office (705) 687-SOIL (7645) Center was constructed with much needed greenhouse and laboratory Fax (705) 687-3518 Toll Free 1 -888-607-TURF (8873) facilities, and Price Hall underwent extensive renovation. He had a Cell (905) 512-6004 Email dcs.agronomic.services@sympatico.ca significant effect on the direction and productivity of department programs. In 1974 he resumed academic duties in research and instruction, conducting research on chemical control of turfgrass diseases, the effect of environmental factors on turfgrass disease development, and the nature and control of senectopathic diseases of turfgrass. He taught an undergraduate course in Turfgrass Pathology and tutored several graduate students. He Set Them Free authored two academic texts; “Diseases of Turfgrass” in 1962, and “The Turfgrass Disease Handbook” in 2000. In addition, he published many scientific papers, chapters in books, technical trade journal articles, extension publications, conference proceedings and research abstracts. He was an exceedingly popular speaker who, over the course of his career, had accepted close to 500 national and international requests to present his research and discuss its application to practical turfgrass disease management. His career was full of awards acknowledging his significant contributions to the understanding of turfgrass disease management. Most recently, Dr. A Better Way to Control Weeds Couch was awarded the 2002 National Distinguished Service Award from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America for “Outstanding contributions to the advancement of the golf course superintendent’s CasoronG4 Labour-free Weed Control profession.” In 2003 he was awarded the United States Golf Association • Casoron G4 is an easy to use granular herbicide that provides the ideal answer for weed control problems in shelterbelts, fruit trees, cane fruit, hedgerows and Green Section Award for “Distinguished service to golf through work with around trees and shrubs on golf courses. • Casoron G4 eliminates the need for labour-intensive and costly hand weeding. turfgrass.” • Easily applied with a granular applicator, Casoron G4 can be used annually for Dr. Couch lived a very productive life and enjoyed the support of his wife long-lasting residual control of annual and perennial weeds. • For more information, contact your local UAP dealer. of 58 years; Billie Spencer Couch, four sons, one daughter, and several grandchildren. He had many friends in the turfgrass community and touched many of our lives. He will be sorely missed. www.uap.ca West: 1-800-561-5444 Ontario: 1-800-265-4624 Quebec & Maritimes: 1-800-361-9369 Looking back 15 YEARS AGO TO-DAY by Barry Endicott The Board of Directors in 1989 were Neil Acton (president), (F), Steven Holmes, Donalda (F), Greg Anderson, Victoria Park Deer Creek; Gord Nimmo (vice), Sarnia; Thom Charters (F), Alex McLeod, Monterra (F), Terry Fries, Merry Hill (F), (past), Weston; Rhod Trainor (editor), St. Thomas; Greg Paul Scenna Jr., Mississaugua (F), David Tascone, Wyldewood O’Heron, Peterborough; Ted Ellis, Greenwood; Bruce Burger, (F), Jordon Lucas, Galt (F), Ron Legato, Scenic Woods (A) and Galt; John Taylor, Twenty Valley; Scott Dodson, Summit; Ed Perry Beausoleil (F) Carleton. Farnsworth, Deerhurst; Mark Hagen, Wyldewood and David Annette Anderson was the Turf Extension Specialist from the Gourlay, Beacon Hall. Cindi Charters was the office secretary. Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the OMAF Turf Hotline Neil Acton left Brooklea and took the position at Deer Creek, was established which was a very good success. Golf course while Marlon Gieseler, Neil’s assistant, took over Brooklea. architect C. E. (Robbie) Robinson passed away on December 29 Richard Ziegel left Burlington Springs and went to Deerfield. at the age of 82. Mr. Robinson was the uncle of Robbie Ted Ellis left Greenwood and went to Blue Springs, Mark Robinson of Hidden Lakes Golf Club. Hagen moved from Wyldewood to West Haven. Mike Creed The Michigan/Borders Cities Golf Meeting was held on April took Mark’s position at Wyldewood. Gary Hastings moved to 3rd at Essex Golf and Country Club hosted by Stew Mills with Rockway and Doon Valley from Merryhill. Jerry Richard, Dr. Joe Vargas as the guest speaker. The Western Ontario Golf assistant at Toronto G.C., started at Craigowan. John Anderson Superintendents Association had meetings at St. Catherines, moved to Hockley Valley and Don Crymble replaced John at John Piccolo, Brookfield, Henry Schmitz, Port Colbome, Jay IBM. Bruce Dodson left Emerald Hills to become Kulak, Glendale, George Garner, and Bridgewater, Steve superintendent at Hawkridge and Jack Austin, formerly of Turf Sherwood and Wilf Wallace. The Taylor Barnes tournament Care Irrigation, went out on his own, forming Canadian was held at Bridgewater Country Club, which was won by Ted Irrigation Consultants. Mark Schneider went to Beachgrove, Bishop of Rolling Meadows. Ryan Beauchamp, assistant at St. Thomas, went to Westminster The Georgian Bay area was seeing an influx of new courses. Trails, John Cherry left Cherry Downs for the National while Ron Heesen, at Monterra, was preparing for a July 1st opening. Ken Wright left the National and went to Devil’s Pulpit. David Tom McBroom was working on the Hockley Valley Golf Club Gourlay Jr. left Beacon Hall and started at a new course in with Superintendent John Anderson. Bob Cupp was building Ottawa called Eagle Creek. Bob Heron took over from Dave at the Deerhurst Highlands Golf Club adding to Ed Farnsworth’s Beacon Hall. established 18. Rene and Charlie Muylaert were building a New members: Vince Dermott, Markland Woods (B), George second 18 holes for John Hughes at Horseshoe Valley and a new Allison, Western Trent (B), David Brooke, Scotch Settlement 18 hole course in Orillia, called Hawkridge, where Bruce (B), Nancy Pierce, Toronto Golf (F), Jack Little, Dalewood (F), Dodson was superintendent. Tournaments were held at the Ian Bowen, Lakeview (B), Mary Beth Kelly, Ladies (F), Doug following courses: Bonaire, Randy Fielder; Lake St. George, Walsh, Westmount (F), Rob Sharp, Glen Abbey (F), Bill Greg Louth; Cranberry Village, Charlie Terry; Barrie, Ed Doda Dickinson, Champion Turf Equipment (E), Stephen Jones, and Muskoka Lakes, David Smith. All golf days began at 12 Deer Creek (B), James Hopkins, Fawn Brook (B), Raymond noon and the cost was $20.00 per person. Yule, Glen Cedars (B), Jay Kulak, Port Colbome (B), Peter The Superintendent/Pro Tournament was held at St. Dickey, Glenway (B), Robert MacGrandles, Ridge Pine Park Thomas Golf and Country Club hosted by Rhod Trainor. The (B), Jack Austin, Canadian Irrigation Consultants (E), Everett low team was Herb Holzsheiser and Thom Charters from the Nieuwkoop, Ontario Seed Co. (E), Dan O’Conner, Saugeen Weston Golf Club. Brett Murray Technical Sales Maple Turf Supply 8112 King Rd. W. Business: (905) 857-2000 890 Fairground Rd. R.R. #4 Langton Ont. N0E 1G0 P.O. Box 370 Fax: (905) 857-8215 Bolton, Ontario Mobile: (416) 580-8112 Phone (519) 875-4094 Fax (519) 875-4095 L7E 5T3 1-800-268-4425 Website: mastersturfsupply.com email: mastersturf@uniserve.com TURF CARE From the front nine to the backyard, you can count on us. 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 With over 88 years of experience, Toro is the most trusted supplier of turf equipment and irrigation systems to golf courses, parks and individual lawns around the world. Our commitment to providing innovative, high quality products and systems to help grow and maintain turf is legendary. We care about preserving the tradition of golf. We also care about providing the right solution to you. Make Toro the preferred name at your golf course today. Call us at Turf Care today to find out how you can acquire the products that can set new standards at your course. www.turfcare.ca