July 2007 Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association WATER WISE - WATER WOES Inside this Issue... Biological Herbicides? OGSA Event Summaries CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL The GTI Turns 20 PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1H 6H8 Stop ants in their tracks. And keep them there with Scimitar CS, a new insecticide from Syngenta. With its unique proprietary formulation, Scimitar CS not only controls ants in minutes, it provides maximum long-term activity - giving turf managers a powerful new tool to hold down ant populations. Call 1-888-368-4211 x5525 to contact your local Syngenta Turf Specialist and learn more about Scimitar CS. www.syngenta.ca - www.engageagro.com Important: Always read and follow label instructions. ©2007 Syngenta Group Company. GreenPartners®, Scimitar™ CS and the Syngenta logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Ants credit JinYoung Lee www.bigstockphoto.com President's message Elevate your profile! s the date approaches early July, the dog days of summer A are upon us. We should all be preparing ourselves and our golf courses for the tough months ahead. We spend a lot of time and effort preconditioning our golf courses for these ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS challenging times, but do we spend enough time thinking by Sean DeSilva, ASSOCIATION Coppinwood Golf Club Guelph Turfgrass Institute about our positions and career? Do you feel like your club 328 Victoria Road South owners, directors, and members understand exactly what you Guelph, ON N1H6H8 do? If you don’t tell them, who will? Ph: 519-767-3341 Toll Free: 877-824-6472 First and foremost, we should all step back and examine our role as a golf course Fax: 519-766-1704 superintendent. We prepare the golf course on a daily basis for the enjoyment of our Email: ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca members and golfing public. The success of your golf course depends on it! The Website: www.golfsupers.on.ca success of your career depends on it! It’s a simple message, but it’s important for us BOARD OF DIRECTORS not to forget our ultimate goals and the objective of ourselves and our respective golf President : Sean DeSilva clubs. Past President: Bob Burrows Communicating with your membership or golfing public should be objective Vice-President: Jeff Stauffer number one. Drive the golf course on a busy day, talk to members or golfing public, Treasurer: Randy Booker play golf with your members, communicate your message, and make them Secretary: Jeff Alexander understand. It is important for you to understand, that it is their golf course and we Directors: Chris Andrejicka Jarrod Barakett provide an exceptional golf experience. Don’t hide in the bam! It is very important Doug Breen for them to understand how much education, planning, professionalism, hard work, Rob Gatto and science goes into providing great golf conditions. Scott Heron A combination of all of these things will elevate our positions not only at our own Jennifer Pendrith respective clubs but in the industry as well. One of the Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Randy Twyman Association’s objectives in 2007 is to raise the profile of the golf course Executive Mgr Dorothy Hills superintendent. Hopefully, you all had a chance to see the recent ad that we ran in Office Staff Pat Thomas Ontario Golf Magazine, and for those that did, we thank you all for your positive Deborah Badger feedback. We will be running another later this summer. If you have any suggestions with respect to the ad, please feel free to forward your ideas to any OGSA director. I would also like to extend many thanks on behalf of the Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association to our recent golf events hosts, Ken Wright from Devil’s Pulpit and Rick Lane from Ariss Valley, for providing exceptional playing conditions. Our thanks also goes to their club officials and staff alike. On behalf of Coppinwood, we look forward to hosting all participants for the Presidents’ Day on July 3rd. In closing, I would like to thank Trevor Clapperton for his years of board service GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL since 2005. Trevor has recently accepted a position with the Town of Port Hope and COMMITTEE will be leaving the board in the very near future. Trevor, good luck with your new Chris Andrejicka, Co-Editor position and I wish you and your family well. I would also like to take this opportunity John Bladon, Co-Editor to wish our membership and their respective clubs a successful summer. As you drive Dorothy Hills, Coordinating Manager around your golf course at sunrise we should all recognize how lucky we are and how Greig Barker Tom Brain much we contribute to the game of golf. Be very PROUD. Doug Davidson Paul Grotier Brett Murray Direct Line 416-659-1020 Jason Hanna Manager Fax Line 519-941-0931 Scott Horsburgh “Green is Beautiful” Justin Parsons P.O. Box 218 is Printed on Orangeville, ON Recycled Paper Green is Beautiful 2007 L9W 2Z6 Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the association is not responsible for material published on behalf of its contributors. All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Although some trade names may be mentioned in articles contained in this publication, no endorsement is intended or brett.murray@sympatico.ca implied by the Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. Contents Green is WATER WISE - WATER WOES....................................................... 16 Above the hole ............................................................... Antique alley......................................... 22 25 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Editorial message...................................................................................... 5 From roots to shoots................................................................................ 9 Golf course highlight - Ariss Valley Golf & CC................................... 15 Guelph Turfgrass Institute celebrates its 20th anniversary .......... 8 Health & safety.......................................................................................... 10 Looking back.................................................................... 29 Member profile - Chris Andrejicka....................................................... 13 On the reel side of things ...................................................................... 26 President's message.................................................................................. 3 Pro/Super Challenge 2007........................................................................ 11 Spring Field Day........................................................................................ 14 Telus World Skins Returns to Ontario.................................................. 24 The Fraz........................................................................................................ 18 Turf or consequences................................................................................ 30 University of Guelph update.................................................................. 20 What's new.................................................................................................. 6 Advertisers COVER PICTURE Paper Birch on the 15th Raven at Lora Bay Agrium Advanced Technologies - Grigg Bros.................................. 12 Photo by John Bladon Agrium Advanced Technologies - NuGro Golf ........................... 26, 31 Almack Agronomic Services Inc........................................................... 23 Aquatrols.................................................................................................... 25 Bartlett Tree Experts - Canada............................................................... 19 Bayer Envrionmental Science - Compass.......................................... 27 Braemar Building Systems...................................................................... 24 Burnside Golf Services............................................................................ 19 DCS Agronomic Services......................................................................... 8 DolTurf......................................................................................................... 21 Douglas Wood Large Tree Services...................................................... 26 Engage Agro - Sentator - WSB.............................................................. 28 Fast Forest................................................................................................... 5 Green Horizons Group of Farms........................................................... 22 Growers Choice.......................................................................................... 5 OGSA is committed to H & M Turf Ltd............................................................................................. 3 Manderley Turf Products Inc.................................................................. 23 serving its members, Maple Turf Supply............................................................................... 22, 26 advancing their profession, Maple Turf Supply - Uflex ...................................................................... 19 and Master's Turf Supply Ltd.......................................................................... 8 Ontario Seed Company Ltd..................................................................... 12 enriching the quality Skyway Lawn Equipment Limited........................................................ 22 of golf Syngenta - Scimitar CS........................................................................... 2 and its environment. Syngenta - Subdue Maxx ....................................................................... 21 Turf Care Products Canada - Irrigation Div........................................ 23 Turf Care Products Canada...................................................................... 32 Vanden Bussche Irrigation...................................................................... 9 Layout, Design & Printing provided by Zander Sod Co. Limited.......................................................................... 19 G-R-A-P-H-l-C SERVICES PRINTERS & LITHOGRAPHERS Tel: 519.763.5745 • Fax: 519.763.9532 32-34 Essex Street • Guelph, Ontario • N1H 3K8 e-mail: info@graphicservices.ca • www.graphicservices.ca Editorial message Although temperatures have the magazine and have done so on a volunteer basis. How been inconsistent over the past few fortunate we all are to have their musings to read month weeks going from hot and humid to after month! Also, event newsworthy, The Telus World cold and windy, the summer stress Skins game returned to Ontario after a three year absence period is upon us. Over the coming and we congratulate OGSA member Chris LeCour and his months we will all be relying on one team on the successful hosting of this event. The Raven at of our most precious resources, Lora Bay was indeed shining! With municipal pesticide by John Bladon water, to keep ourselves and turfgrass pressures unrelenting, Pam Charbonneau brings us an Co-Editor in prime health. update on a new biological product that has recently been With water in mind, we have some submissions on the registered for weed control, while Dr. Eric Lyons gives us subject matter including a piece on irrigation efficiencies, some food for thought on maximizing the use of a budget. a second on the use of effluent sources and finally one Lastly, congratulations to Doug Meyer, Turf Manager at from Mr. Doug Breen reminding us of the “good old” days Beaconsfield for winning the “Turf Tip” contest. We have of irrigation and how fortunate we are to have automation enclosed photos and a summary of Doug’s tip for your as one of the tools in our toolbelt. The event season is also interest. in full swing and we have summaries from The Pro/Super, The editorial committee continues to seek articles and The Fraz and The Spring Field Day. At the recent Spring photos for future issues and our membership can benefit Field Day, the association recognized Green Is Beautiful greatly from the most basic information so please, don’t contributors and editorial committee members for their be shy. Feel free to drop Dorothy, Chris or myself a line continued support of the magazine. Authors such as and share something that you think may be of interest to Doug Breen, Daisy Moore, Pam Charbonneau and Doug your fellow members. We really want your input! Johnson have been longtime and tireless contributors to Grower’s Choice PREMIUM Divot Mix “Grower’s Choice™ Divot Mix is a four component blend that contains natural organics and sand to promote good root Providing professional large tree planting growth, nutrient balance and porosity.” and transplanting service to golf courses for 20 years Grower’s Choice™ Divot Mix and decorative landscape mulches are available in one cubic yard totes or bulk loads. All Grower’s Choice™ Products are made to professional specifications and are employed by top Canadian Landscape Contractors. Soil also distributed by 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 1720 Huron Road, Kitchener, Ontario Phone (519) 748-6610 I Fax (519) 748-6626 phone 519-896-9459 or toll-free: 866-580-4769 fax: 519-696-3779 What's new OGSA Turf Tip Contest Mark Your Calendars Congratulations to Doug Meyer, MS, CGC, Turf Manager, Beaconsfield Golf Club, in Pointe-Claire, Quebec for TOURNAMENT SCHEDULE submitting a turf tip. Doug is the lucky winner of $100 worth of OGSA merchandise. Here is the tip Doug We will be booking venues for submitted. Keep this one in mind for when next spring 2008 and 2009 events, if there rolls around. are any golf course superintendents who would Easy Removal of Green Tarps In Spring like to have an event at their course, please contact either All turf managers know how frustrating it is to roll up directors Jennifer Pendrith jpendrith@kawarthagolf.ca green covers in the spring. Our crews suffer from “tarp Chris Andrejicka chrisa@essexgolf.com or Dorothy Hills fingers” after hauling and rolling heavy tarps off the ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca greens. For about $2,000.00 your mechanic can make a tarp roller that can be mounted on a tractor. Our hydraulic powered roller makes removing tarps neater and OGSA ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT TOURNAMENT easier to store and unroll in the fall, as well as making the HOSTED BY THE BRIARS GOLF CLUB, SUTTON WEST iob easier on the crew. DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2007 OGSA ALEX McCLUMPHA MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT HOSTED BY PETERBOROUGH GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB DATE: MONDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2007 CANADIAN OPEN HOSTED BY ANGUS GLEN DATE: JULY 23rd - 29th Please note that the Royal Canadian Golf Association has initiated a standing policy regarding complimentary admittance to the Canadian Open. This policy states that national level golf associations only will be given complimentary access to the Canadian Open. As the OGSA is a provincial association our members will not be afforded complimentary access. ONTARIO TURF RESEARCH FOUNDATION FUNDRAISING TOURNAMENT HOSTED BY GEORGIAN BAY CLUB, COLLINGWOOD DATE: MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 2007 Note: The OTRF tournament is not an OGSA event. We would like to thank all those who participated in the Please contact Debbie Conrad contest and to remind you that even though the contest is for details at (519) 824-4120 x56149 or email: over, we welcome any turf tips you would like to submit for otrf@gti.uoguelph.ca posting on our web site. 1st annual seniors golf TOURNAMENT HOSTED BY DOUG SUTER & ALAN BEENEY MONO HILLS GOLF CLUB, Welcome! MONO TWP, ON OGSA Welcomes our newest members DATE: THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 2007 Curtis Bondy Class C OPEN TO all current and former Sutton Creek Golf & CC 2007 OGSA Members, Associates, Life FUNDRAISING Members and Honorary Members Mark Bruin Class C over the age of 50. Muskoka Bay Club GOLF TOURNAMENT ENTRY DEADLINE AUGUST 1, 2007 Brad Halyk Class A Details: 9:00 a.m. -10:45 - Registration Sundrim Golf Club 11:00 a.m. - Shotgun 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. - Social Hour Tammy Houle Class F Humber Valley GC 5:30 p.m. - Steak Dinner Paul Snider Class C Cost: $50.00 per person includes 18 Owen Sound G & CC holes, cart, lunch, dinner & prizes • Entry limited to first 60 players ANNOUNCEMENT The Ontario Turfgrass Make cheque payable to FROM THE BOARD Research Foundation Doug Suter and mail with your name, address, phone # and HC to: Invites you to attend their Seniors Tournament Annual Fundraising Golf 707543 County Rd. 21-Lisle, ON L0M 1M0 Tournament hosted by For further info call 1-705-466-5210 OGSA would like to CGSA FALL FIELD DAY announce the appointment of Georgian Bay Club, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2007 Scott Heron, Collingwood, ON CGSA 41ST ANNUAL FALL FIELD DAY BIG SKY GOLF & CC PEMBERTON, B.C. Superintendent at Bigwin Island Golf Club, Monday August 20,2007 For more information contact the Canadian Golf Superintendents to the OGSA Board of Directors. 12:30 P.M. Shot Gun Association at 800 387-1056 or go to preceded by registration and www.golfsupers.com buffet lunch Scott will be filling the vacancy OGSA event registrations and details will left by Trevor Clapperton, as a be posted to the website Director of Golf Events and will For registration details or to www.golfsupers.on.ca under the menu remain on the board as an inquire about sponsorship heading “Events”. Check out both the contact: appointee until the election of “Calendar of Events” and the actual “Event” pages. We will also notify you in directors in 2009. our email bulletin, “Clippings” when OTRF office at registration forms are available. Scott brings with him a wealth 519-824-4120X56149 of information and experience, or email Debbie at The Regional associations are invited to otrf@gti.uoguelph.ca send their tournament information into and we take this opportunity to the OGSA office and we will post it in welcome him aboard. our “Calendar of Events” on the website. GUELPH TURFGRASS INSTITUTE CELEBRATES ITS 20th ANNIVERSARY by Rob Witherspoon, GTI Director This year marks the 20th anniversary of the founding least 2018 when the lease with the Ontario Turfgrass of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. The GTI was officially Research Foundation expires, the OTRF and GTI created by the University of Guelph on February 17, 1987 Advisory Board are working hard to gain longer term to “promote an interdisciplinary approach to the research, security for turfgrass research and education programs on education and extension programs in turfgrass science at this site. the University of Guelph.” In the meantime, the province is undertaking a study The original idea for the GTI came about when the of the York District lands in conjunction with an ongoing University of Guelph hosted the International Turfgrass City of Guelph planning exercise looking at the area. It Research Conference on campus in 1981. In addition to should be noted that the GTI lands are only a small outside guests, the conference brought together all of the portion of the greater York District lands which includes faculty and staff at Guelph who had an interest in turf. It the former provincial reformatory. A consulting firm took a few years for the concept to take root, but headed by former Winnipeg Mayor Glen Murray is eventually the idea for the GTI was born and came to conducting the study. fruition in 1987. The idea was quickly grasped by turfgrass The first stage of the study involved engaging a industry leaders and following a very successful roundtable of citizens to provide possible ideas for further fundraising campaign, the G.M. Frost Research & development of the lands. The GTI lands were excluded Education Centre was built and the GTI moved to its from this process although the OTRF and the GTI current location to the east of the main university campus. Advisory Board have collaborated to present a report to Dr. Clayton Switzer wrote and recorded a historical the consultants outlining the added value a facility like the narrative that was shown at the Ontario Turfgrass GTI can add to further development of the York District. Symposium opening session this past February. We hope The consultants presented the results of their to have the presentation up on our website soon. The roundtable findings at a town hall public meeting on main celebration of the 20th anniversary will take place at Monday, June 18th at 7:00 p.m. in the conference room of an Open House planned for Thursday, August 16th from the OMAFRA building at One Stone Road in Guelph. noon to 8 p.m. The event is open to the industry and They have collected public responses from this meeting, public and will feature informal tours of the research conducted some research of their own, and will be plots, viewing of the annual trial gardens, food, presenting their refined findings at a second town hall entertainment and much more. Mark your calendar now meeting at the same location on Monday, July 23rd. If you and watch for more details here as we get closer to the are in the area and interested in the process, you are date www.uoguelph.ca/ gti welcome to attend and express your opinion and ideas on the best use of these lands. GTI Lands Update While the provincial government has confirmed it will For more detailed information on the York District Lands permit the GTI to remain at its current location until at Study, go to York District, City of Guelph Project. David C. Smith, A.Ag., C.G.C.S. 185 Oriole Crescent Soil & Turfgrass Consultant Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P 1C6 890 Fairground Rd. R.R. #4 Langton Ont. N0E 1G0 Office (705) 687-SOIL (7645) Phone (519) 875-4094 Fax (519) 875-4095 Fax (705) 687-3518 Toll Free 1-888-607-TURF (8873) Website: mastersturfsupply.com Cell (905) 512-6004 Email dave@dcsturf.com email: mastersturf@uniserve.com From roots to shoots NEW ORGANIC HERBICIDE NOW REGISTERED IN CANADA (any of you may remember effects, does not produce spores and does not persist hearing about research being in the environment. conducted on a biological control Because this product is a biological control, it does for dandelions over the past decade. have some more specific application requirements Some of this work was conducted at than the chemical broadleaf herbicides that we are the University of Guelph in the late used to dealing with. Some of those specifics include: by Pam Charbonneau Applying the product on days where the daytime 1990’s and the research was OMAF Turfgrass Specialist continued at McGill University by high is around 18 - 24° C. If there hasn’t been any Dr. Alan Watson until now. In May of this year, the rain in the 12 hours preceding an application, it is company that was founded in 2004, in collaboration recommended to irrigate the lawn to ensure the with McGill University, Sarritor Inc., announced that product works effectively. Avoid applying the product it has received federal regulatory approval for a during hot and dry days. natural weed control product based on the fungus The product can be applied any time during the day Sclerotinia minor. The product name is Sarritor. Its provided the temperature is not above 25° C. registration is very timely, with more and more Unlike traditional chemical herbicides, the product municipalities in Canada banning traditional can be applied in the rain. The product requires herbicides for use on home lawns. To my knowledge, moisture to work effectively and it will work better on most municipalities with pesticide bans have an rainy days. exempt list that allows the use of biological controls Currently Sarritor Inc. Are organizing large-scale for pests, so this product will most likely be able to be field trials in Eastern Canada for the spring of 2007. used in municipalities that currently have pesticide They expect to have enough product available for by-laws. widespread distribution in late 2009 or early 2010. Sclerotinia minor is a naturally occurring fungus and This is very timely news for the turf industry in is indigenous to Canada. When applied to a Ontario and this product will no doubt find its way dandelion, the fungus attacks the weed, weakening it into the golf course market as well as the home lawn until it dies. Once the weed is gone, the fungus market. For more information on the product and disappears. All grass types have a natural defense the company you can visit their web site at mechanism against this fungus, so they cannot be www.sarritor.ca . harmed. The fungus does not have any toxicological I Love a Rainy Night... Rain Bird RainWatch! Why Irrigate in the Rain? Milton 1.800.263.4112 King City 1.866.703.KING www.vandenbussche.com Health & safety Avoid Heat Stress By Staying Cool At Work It only seems like a few weeks ago that When possible, try to: we were complaining about the cold and • Avoid working in direct sunlight. now we are talking about excessive heat! • Reduce the pace of work. The hot summer season puts indoor and • Increase the number of breaks and take breaks in cool outdoor workers at risk. The Ontario or shaded areas. Labour Minister, Steve Peters, is • Schedule heavy work for cooler periods of the day. by DougJohnson SAFETAID - Health and reminding employers and workers to be • Wear light-coloured and/or light-weight clothing. Safety Consulting aware of the occupational health and • Reduce the physical demands of work by using aides, safety dangers of heat stress and to protect themselves at work. such as hoists, mechanical handling equipment, “As we approach the summer season, we can expect an wheeled carts or dollies. increase in heat and humidity which puts both indoor and • Get help if you must move heavy materials. An extra outdoor workers at risk”, said Peters. “Employers and pair of hands will reduce the potential for heat stress. workers need to work together to be aware of the symptoms of heat stress and they must put the necessary safeguards in Employers have a duty under the Occupational Health place to protect themselves.” and Safety Act (OHSA) to “take every precaution reasonable When heat is combined with other stresses like hard in the circumstances for the protections of a worker”. This physical work, fluid loss, fatigue or some medical conditions, includes ensuring a worker is protected from heat stress by it can lead to heat-related illness, disability and even death. developing and implementing hot environment policies and Heat stress can affect anyone, including the young and fit, and procedures. can be a concern in many workplaces. For indoor workers, Most workplaces don’t have “hot processes” but working in major sources of heat are motorized equipment, bakeries, hot weather can pose health risks to their workers. For hot ovens and physical exertion. For outdoor workers, direct work environments due to hot weather, a hot weather plan is sunlight is the main source of heat. appropriate. A hot weather plan should establish the Humidity also adds to the discomfort of high implementation criteria, or triggers, to put the plan into temperatures. As employers and workers it is important to be effect. The criteria may include weather/environmental aware of the humidex readings, as knowing this information indicator triggers such as: will assist you in implementing measures to deal with heat stress. • Humidex reaching or exceeding 35 Celsius. • Environment Canada weather reports; and/or Symptoms of heat stress can include: • Heat waves (three or more days of temperatures of 32° or more). • Rashes • Sunburn Generally, plans related to hot weather should be in place • Cramping between May 1 and September 30 of each year. • Fainting “Heat stress is a constant and important workplace health and safety • Excessive sweating issue,99 said Peters. “Employers and workers should work together to • Headache and dizziness ensure they are working smart and staying cool." For more information, please see the ministry’s Heat Stress Guideline at: If you are working in a hot environment, you should drink www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/guidelines/gl _heat.html lots of fluids to replace perspiration. Try to drink a cup of water about every 20 minutes. This should equate to SAFETAID approximately six to eight glasses of water per day. Making safety your 1st priority! T. 519-837-0997 • F. 519-837-1996 Consulting, Safety and First Aid Supplies PRO/SUPER CHALLENGE 2007 DEVILLISHLY DIFFERENT photos by Trevor Clapperton Seventy teams enjoyed the warm hospitality and superb golfing conditions of the Devil’s Pulpit for the 2007 Pro/Super Challenge. The course has been lavished with praise for its scenery and spectacular setting on 315 acres of the Niagara Escarpment. Devil’s Pulpit defines all that’s exciting in modern golf design, providing strategic challenge, rambunctious topography, wondrous natural beauty and imaginative features. Our thanks go to Superintendent, Ken Wright and his staff for the exceptional playing experience. Head Pro, Ray Lange was a gracious host and his staff did a wonderful job. The champions from Credit Valley Golf and Country Club, Superintendent Jeff Stauffer and Golf Professional, Ian Webb gladly accepted the trophy, presented by OGSA Director, Chris Andrejicka. Host Superintendent Ken Wright (L) and host Professional Ray Lange Chris Andrejicka (R) presents the trophy to the winning team of (R) Ian Webb (L) and Jeff Stauffer (C) Pro/Super Challenge Champions empty table cell empty table cell Superintendent Golf Professional 1st Gross Credit Valley Golf & Country Club (68) Jeff Stauffer Ian Webb 2nd Gross Innerkip Highlands Golf Club (73) Randy Dick Richard Demeester 3rd Gross Summit Golf Club (74) Phil Brown Tom Price Net 1st Devil’s Pulpit Golf Assn (68) Ken Wright Ray Lange 2nd Net The Cutten Club (69) David Kuypers Todd McGrath 3rd Net Mad River Golf Club (70) Ray Richards Brian French Closest to the Pin: #3 Rick Lane, Ariss Valley Golf Club (Superintendent) #16 Jeff Palmer, Raven at Lora Bay Golf Club (Golf Professional) 330 Phillip St. Phone 519-886-0557 Waterloo, Ontario Fax 519-886-0605 N2J 3Z6 Toll Free 1-800-465-5849 www.oscturf.com Check us out! 110 Years of Continued Service Dave Schmelefske - Central Region 519-897-4423 dave@oscturf.com Trevor Hunter - Niagara Region 519-897-8873 thunter@bell.blackberry.net Kent McDonald - Southwestern Region 519-870-6724 kent@bell.blackberry.net Kenny Graham - Greater Toronto 416-570-7333 kennyg@bell.blackberry.net Victor Freiberg - Eastern Ontario 416-200-3029 victorf@bell.blackberry.net John Lamoureux- Ottawa Valley 613-298-4525 jl@bell.blackberry.net Turf Seed, Fungicides, Insecticides, Herbicides, Bayco Golf, Umaxx Fertilizer, Photo taken by Superintendent, Chris Goodman Wetting Agents. instant gratification Only Grigg Brothers Foliars promise Tru-Foliar Technology for better absorption, for truer greens - faster. Tru-Foliar™ Technology is a unique and superior foliar nutrition system found only in Grigg Brothers foliar fertilizers. We have been dedicated to the research and understanding of natural nutrient chelations, uptake, absorption, and translocation processes. The resulting products hold nutrients in their proper ionic form for optimal plant utilization. Rely on Grigg Bros Tru-Foliar™ Technology for safe, and timely results every application. www.griggbros.com 1 -800-461-6471 WWW.nu-groturf.com Distributed by Agrium Advanced Technologies, 10 Craig Street, Brantford, ON N3R 7J1 Grigg Bros.' is a registered trademark. Member profile Interview with Chris Andrejicka by John Bladon Agrium Advanced Technologies Not unlike many of us who have decided to work in the golf maintenance business, it started similarly for Chris Andrejicka, playing the game of golf. There is however, one difference between most of us and Chris. He can REALLY play this game. Chris actually grew up around the game, living along the 18th fairway at Pine Valley and watched in the early 70’s as Tom Fazio reworked the golf course into Photo by Dorothy Hills the top ranked National we now know today. His first exposure to turfgrass management happened prior to high school ending. While playing relentlessly, Chris went to work on the golf maintenance team at the National. In 1980, and with high school completed, golf called and he received a full scholarship to New Mexico State along with current touring pros Tom Byrum and Bart Bryant. After 2 years at NM, Chris came to the realization that he had to make education his priority and he transferred to Simon Fraser University to complete his degree in economics. His degree in hand, he then returned home and to work at the National while completing turfgrass management studies at the University of Guelph. Still equipped with a US visa, and wanting some experience away from the National, Chris then spent time at the Pete Dye designed, Long Cove Club in Hilton Head until his visa expired. At this stage, mentor Ken Wright called and Chris was granted the assistant superintendent post at the National where he remained until 1989. Do any of you remember playing a new board game called Trivial Pursuit in the 80’s? With the profits from Trivial Pursuit soaring, and principals Chris Haney and Scott Abbott wanting to build golf, Chris accompanied Ken to the Devil’s Pulpit and Devil’s Paintbrush projects. After six years in Caledon, Chris took the superintendent position he has held for 13 years and holds to this day at Essex Golf and Country Club. A career highlight since joining Essex Chris lists hosting the 1998 LPGA Canadian Open and playing in the Pro-Am with professional Stephania Croce. Chris lives in Windsor with wife, Linda, daughter Laura, 13 and son Eric, 10. Away from the golf course, Chris enjoys spending time around the pool with his family and watching his son play hockey. Finally, Chris has some words of wisdom for the next generation of superintendents. “You can’t grow grass from an office! Get out and be on your golf course both managing and playing it Be proactive and interact with members/players... they are your customer!” Words of wisdom indeed. "In the Hot Seat" • Favourite major: British Open • Best piece of turf equipment ever: Toro ProCore Aerator • Favourite architect: New-Fazio, Old-Ross • Ultimate foursome: Andrejicka, Stadler, Price, Nicklaus • Lowest round ever and where: 70, The National • Favourite meal: 10oz NY steak, potatoes, asparagus and Caesar salad • What’s in your CD right now: Steely Dan • What would you be if not a golf course superintendent: Tour Professional SPRING FIELD DAY The Ariss Valley Golf and Country Club was the venue Randy Hooper Kent Essex Greenkeeper’s Society for this year’s Spring Field Day tournament. Those who were fortunate enough to play in the Spring Field Day were Todd Russell Ottawa Valley Turfgrass Association greeted by a beautiful sunny day. Superintendent, Rick Lane and his staff had the course in prime condition for Timothy Schaly Eastern Ontario Golf Superintendents our event. Special thanks also go to Golf Pro, Paul Cotey Association and Executive Chef, Adam DiSario for their assistance with this event. Located in the scenic, rolling landscape of the Mark Hagan Greater London & Area Association Ariss Valley, the Pines and Willows courses provided challenge for both beginners and skilled golfers alike, with the valley’s creek winding through several holes. Green is Beautiful's Co-editor, Chris Andrejicka took the mike to express our thanks to the regular contributors and the Editorial Committee for their continued support of OGSA’s official publication. Without their volunteered efforts, it would not be possible to produce this magazine. If anyone has anything they would like to contribute to the magazine you can contact any member of the Editorial Committee, listed on page 3 of the magazine Flight A - Superintendents Flight B - Assistants, Associates & Guests Gross - Flight A 1st Chris Andrejicka (74) 2nd Bruce Burger (75) 3rd Dave DeCorso (78) The Girls: Kerry Whale, Judy Johnson, Jennifer Antoniak, Tracy Fowler Photo by Jason Hanna Gross - Flight B Prior to the BBQ luncheon, we had an opportunity to 1st Dave Schmelefske (73) welcome Dr. Eric Lyons, Assistant Professor in the 2nd Mike Kehoe (74) Department of Plant Agriculture at the University of 3rd Tim Steen (76) Guelph. He gave a brief update on research and plans for future work within the golf industry. Net - Flight A OGSA Director Trevor Clapperton welcomed our 1st Dave Moon (64) Regional Association guests and recognized the volunteer 2nd John Bontje (64) (tie broken by score on #1 Pines) efforts they bring to their respective regional associations, 3rd Kennedy Court (67) making a difference in promoting our profession in this every changing golf industry. Should you require information about an Ontario Regional Asscociation you Net - Flight B can contact the following persons: 1st Rocco DiPasquale (65) 2nd Ron Biggs (66) Kenndy Court Northern Ontario Golf Superintendents 3rd Chuck Barber (67) Association Closest to the Pin - Flight A - Dave DeCorso John Bontje Georgian Bay Golf Superintendents Association Closest to the Pin - Flight B - Gary Tate John Taylor Western Ontario Golf Superintendents Association Longest Drive - Flight A - Barry Endicott Sean Evelyn Lake Simcoe Greenkeepers Longest Drive - Flight B - Darryl McIntyre Golf course highlight Ariss Valley Golf & Country Club 5700 Road #86, R.R.#1 Ariss ON N0B 1B0 Phone: (519) 824-1551 Fax: (519) 824-6873 Website: www.arrisvalley.com Golf Course Superintendent: Rick Lane Email: arissvalley@bellnet.ca Photo by Jason Hanna COURSE PROFILE What county is your club located in? How many bunkers? 1 Jacobsen 1900D Wellington 35 1 John Deere Front Deck Is your club private, semi private, public, resort or 2 Lastec Articulator municipal? How many ponds, and/or water come into 2 John Deere 3235 play? 19 in play 1 Toro 5400 Semi-Private 14 ponds 1 Jacobsen 3400 Size of Membership? 1 John Deere 1000 Aercore 50 - 100 3 John Deere Gator What was the year of original construction? 3 Club Car Golf Carts Number of rounds? 1993 3 Stihl Weedeaters 30,000 plus 1 Honda Weedeater 1 Kabota Tractor L4310 Typical opening and closing date What is the size of your maintenance shop? 1 Case 275 Tractor April to December 4,200 square feet 1 International 2200 Loader Tractor Name of Superintendent 1 Smithco Sprayer What type of irrigation system? Rick Lane, CGCS 1 Toro Sandpro 14 Rainbird 1 Meter Matic III Topdresser How long have you been a superintendent? 6 years What is the size of the greens, tees & fairways? COURSE PROJECTS How long have you been an OGSA member? Greens: 4 1/2 acres 5 years What projects have you recently completed? Tees: 4 acres Fairways: 60 acres Remodeled 3 holes including a par 4 island How many year round staff? green None Built 4 new greens What is your predominant grass? Built 9 new bunkers How many seasonal staff? 15 seasonal Greens: Poa Bent Tees and Fairways: Kentucky Bluegrass How many mechanics and assistants? LONG RANGE PLANS Mechanic: Dave Lawrence How many USGA greens and loam greens? Assistant: Scott Beckham 28 USGA What long range plans for renovation do you have in the next five years? COURSE STATISTICS Hopefully updating the irrigation system What is the predominant soil type? How many holes? Sandy gravel with trace of clay 27 CHALLENGES What is the yardage from back & forward tees? What equipment do you have in inventory? Are there any particular challenges you face Lakes: 2831/3005 3 Greens King VI with your property? Willows: 2935/3199 1 John Deere 2500 50% manual irrigation Pines: 2955/3199 1 John Deere 2243 50% automated irrigation Water Wise - Water Woes Water-Wise and Pound-Sensible Presented by the Golf Course Superintendents Association ofAmerica Golf course superintendents are always looking for the soil. Studies show that without a wetting agent, 30 to innovative ways to minimize the amount of water used on 70 percent of applied water never reaches the root of the their courses. Efficient water use on golf courses is plant. Wetting agents reduce the surface tension of the dependent upon several factors, most notably the water being applied, reducing runoff and evaporation. irrigation practices of the turf manager and performance of the irrigation system. Another effective irrigation practice uses a central computer controller or satellite systems to manage Proper design and installation are critical for an irrigation. The central control and satellite control irrigation system to perform effectively. Hydraulics, nozzle systems on the market today allow superintendents to selection, control capabilities and climate all must be budget water and determine which areas of the course considered in the design process. The adjustment of have special irrigation needs. There are even systems that pumps and regulators, and the replacement of worn can be connected to weather and soil moisture monitors. nozzles or other damaged components must be ongoing. These systems only water turf when necessary. Outdated systems present additional challenges as Whatever method is used, the golfer can be sure of one aging hardware results in major failures of pumps, thing - the superintendent has dotted every “I” and controllers and mainlines, causing the loss of large areas crossed every “T” when it comes to resourcefully irrigating of turf. To counter such problems, many superintendents their course. make it a daily routine to spot standing water, repair leaks and adjust controllers - to correct areas that are too dry or too wet. KEY POINTS: Techniques to maximize irrigation efficiency include Efficient water use on golf courses is dependent adjusting sprinkler head spacing for uniform coverage, upon several factors, most notably the irrigation tailoring nozzle size to the soil texture and utilizing practices of the turf manager and performance of individual sprinkler head control to ensure flexible the irrigation system. scheduling. Turf professionals invest a great deal of time Turf professionals invest a great deal of time and and money into superior irrigation systems to money into superior irrigation systems to reduce the reduce the amount of water, as well as money, spent amount of water, as well as money, spent on the course. on the course. What more can be done? Proper design and installation are critical for an irrigation system to perform effectively. Some superintendents opt to upgrade hardware or invest in a completely new system altogether, while others Many superintendents make it a daily routine to have decided on irrigation auditors, who help budget spot standing water, repair leaks and adjust management costs. controllers Applying a wetting agent ensures that water penetrates A central computer controller or satellite system can be used to manage irrigation. Water Woes: A New Solution for Golf Course The availability of water is one of the greatest Some of the issues facilities must consider when using operational challenges facing many golf course effluent: superintendents. Considering /() percent of the planet is made up of water, that may come as a surprise. But as the • Water quality availability of water diminishes, its use lor golf course irrigation is coming under more scrutiny. As a result, • Nutrient content superintendents have begun to think outside the box when irrigating their courses. • Climate and annual rainfall Irrigation water can come from four sources: • Regular monitoring of soil and water chemistry groundwater (wells), surface water (streams), storm water (runoff) and wastewater (effluent). The use of effluent • Budgeting appropriately water, or reclaimed water, offers one solution to the growing concern. • Complying with local regulations Effluent water, which is highly treated wastewater from a As technology advances and the availability of municipal treatment plant, is a growing source of golf resources for irrigating golf courses diminishes, effluent course irrigation. Many superintendents have turned to water will become more of a standard in a this method as an alternative to clean water for irrigation. superintendent’s daily practices, offering an While most effluent water use is now voluntary, it is environmental-friendly solution to the ever-increasing currently required in some arid Southwest regions. water woes. A survey conducted in 1978 reported 26 respondents For more information regarding golf course across the country then used recycled water. A recent maintenance and etiquette, contact your local survey conducted by the National Golf Foundation (NGF) superintendent or die Golf Course Superintendents reported approximately 1.3 percent of golf courses Association of America at 800/472-7878 or nationwide now use effluent irrigation sources, and this www.gcsaa.org. increased to 34 percent in the Southwest. Wastewater may be available with or without cost, and KEY POINTS: the supply is typically consistent as long as people arc Irrigation water can come from four sources: showering and flushing toilets with regularity, The most groundwater (wells), surface water (streams), storm common costs arc for transporting it to die property. In water (runoff) and wastewater (effluent). addition, golf courses may be forced to accept a minimum daily volume regardless of need, making sufficient storage Effluent water, which is highly treated wastewater a potential expense. from a municipal treatment plant, is a growing source of golf course irrigation. Of course, treated wastewater carries some baggage, notably a dirty public image, which will vary with the nature of the source waters and the treatment The greatest advantage of effluent is that technologies. Wastewater irrigation may also contribute to the supply is rarely interrupted by a drought. increased management costs in a variety of ways. The disadvantages vary, and can include high The greatest advantage of effluent is that the supply is cost of delivery, poor water quality and a dirty public rarely interrupted by a drought. The disadvantages vary, image. and can include high cost of delivery, poor water quality and the presence of regional/state/local operational While most effluent water use is now voluntary, it restrictions that may be imposed. The problems arc is currently required in some arid Southwest manageable with careful decisions made during regions. construction and well thought out maintenance programs. THE FRAZ Article by John Bladon Agrium Advanced Technologies Canadian golf and golfers lost a great friend and Glenn has been a long and ardent supporter of the OGSA supporter in 2000 when the Toronto Star’s veteran golf and our continued inclusion in this event allows us the writer Rick Fraser, known to golfing community as “The opportunity to communicate with the top writers and Fraz” passed away. broadcasters from the golf and sporting community. Often To perpetuate his memory, the Greater Toronto Area we talk amongst ourselves and our industry about our Golf Association has named it’s annual Media Day, which successes, however, this event represents a significant promotes the Toronto Star Amateur and the Toronto Star opportunity to see some of those stories reach beyond and Women’s Amateur, in Rick’s honour. This year’s event was potentially facilitate a greater understanding of our held at the beautiful Cedar Brae Golf and Country Club profession. and host superintendent, Mike Ettles, presented us with a superbly conditioned product. The day, organized by Glenn “Goodie” Goodwin of the Star, and Honorary OGSA Member, salutes the sports journalists who have helped make the Greater Toronto Area the number one golf market in North America. OGSA Directors with Glen Goodwin - (L-R) Randy Booker, Jeff Stauffer, Glenn Goodwin, Sean DeSilva and Jeff Alexander photo by John Bladon Despite the rainy start, the turnout was good, and the weather cleared for an enjoyable day. Some of the representation at the 8th annual “Fraz” Media Day included: Jim Byers and Dave Perkins, The Toronto Star; Bob Feaver, Peterborough Examiner; Grant Fraser, Golf Access; Ian Hutchinson, Toronto Sun; Jim Kemohaghn, London Free Legendary Canadian golfers Gary Cowan (L) and Marlene Streit, (C) join Glenn Goodwin, Founder and President of the Toronto Star Press; Brent Long, a freelance golf writer; Ted McIntyre, photo by David Cooper, Toronto Star Ontario Golf Magazine and Marlene Streit, GTAGA Sr. Advisor. ANNOUNCES THE ANNUAL ONTARIO GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE AND TRADE SHOW January 16th - 18th, 2008 SHERATON CENTRE TORONTO MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW Updates will be posted to our web site www.golfsupers.on.ca as information becomes available. AGRIUM ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES APPRECIATION DAY Nu-Gro Ltd. held its 17th Annual Customer Appreciation Golf Tournament on Tuesday, June 5th at Brantford Golf & Country Club in Brantford, Ontario. The weather provided us with brisk Scottish winds and the event was again, deemed a success by all participants. After enjoying a beautifully prepared course by Superintendent Paul Evenden and his team, the field retreated to the cooler confines of the clubhouse for dinner and prize presentations. Each participant took home a personal swing analysis report so they could see exactly where they needed improvement. 8112 King Rd. West Bolton, Ontario L7E 5T3 1-800-268-4425 SUPPLIERS of TOP QUALITY TURF PRODUCTS 1-905-857-2000 No. 1 Kentucky Bluegrass Five varieties of Bentgrass Extreme Fescue (877) 727-2100 • Cost Effective Custom (905) 727-2100 Blends www.zandersod.com • Water Soluble, Granular and Liquid Fertilizers Burnside • Bulk Spreader Service Serving the Needs of the Golf Industry • Full Line of Turf We can help with: Chemicals • Approvals for Golf Course Development and Operations Insects Harming Your Trees? • Irrigation Water Supply • Sewage Treatment and Disposal Possibly. It takes an expert to really tell. • Environmental Management Plans To learn which insects are on your trees • Building and Clubhouse Design Services and shrubs (none are completely insect • Irrigation Design and Consulting free), have a Bartlett arborist inspect them. • Environmental Impact Assessment There is no charge or obligation. • Drinking Water Assessment If control measures are necessary, Bartlett will use the safest materials For further information call: Toll Free: (877) 799-8499 - applied properly to protect our environment. E-mail: vcirone@rjburnside.com Website: www.rjburnside.com Simon George When it comes to pest management, Technical Sales or general tree and shrub care, rely on the Central Ontario, GTA & Niagara Region experts - Bartlett Tree Experts! 1-519-841-3378 Call for your free inspection today!! Toronto • (416) 657-2059 Bracebridge • (705) 646-8733 Mark Schneider Gravenhurst • (705) 687-0696 Technical Sales Huntsville • (705) 789-0929 Georgian Bay, Lake Simcoe www.bartlett.com & Muskoka Region BACKED BY THE BARTLETT TREE RESEARCH LABORATORIES AND EXPERIMENTAL Offices located throughout Ontario 1-519-372-5181 GROUNDS, CHARLOTTE, NC Members of OGSA, CGSA and Golfmax Suppliers to the NGCOA University of Guelph update The goal of turfgrass managers its limits under certain conditions. When looking to put is to provide the best possible playing forward a request to improve your course you should surface for the clientele. In doing definitely consider looking to proven methods and this, turfgrass managers are given a products. This often involves something as simple as a wide array of budgets and rarely does little more fertilizer for the tees and greens as opposed to the budget exceed what is necessary the latest bio-stimulant. It may also include a place in the by Eric Lyons to keep up with expectations. This budget for slow release fertilizers, to free up labour to Assistant Professor Department of Plant spring I have had the opportunity to increase attention to detail throughout the course. Instead Agriculture, U of G play some beautiful smaller courses of asking for the latest do everything widget for thatch throughout Ontario. Many of these control you could instead look for a new greenside quick rural nine-hole courses are truly gems and many of you couplers to minimize leakage and damage due to over maintaining them have found amazing ways to stretch your watering and flooding. Often a small increase in the budget to maximize the golfer’s enjoyment of your facility. labour budget will allow for essential management to be This article will be aimed at finding ways to expand your implemented such as more frequent changing of the pin budget and acquire tools that will help you do your job placement on the weekends, to minimize wear tolerance better. While the article is aimed primarily at courses with and aid in faster recovery of the greens. Start with proven lower budgets I think the strategies listed here will be technologies, show improvement and success with a small helpful for all superintendents looking to request investment, and future requests will be looked upon more additional funds to improve the course. favourably. Evaluate Needs Proposal, benefits, costs If you are seeking funds to improve the golf course, the One of the most important aspects of this process is to most important step is a proper evaluation of the needs of formalize the request in a proposal format. The key to the course. The tendency of golf course superintendents is success is to remember to cater to your audience, who are to think big and cutting edge. This is not always the best often money and business oriented and more often than strategy, instead it is often better to objectively analyze your not, unaware of the agronomic expertise involved in operation as if you were an outside consultant and ask the maintaining a golf course. In your proposal describe the question, “What recommendations could I make to need and evidence of that need by using terminology and improve this course with the least monetary input?” It is examples that the owner/membership would recognize on essential to start with the most pressing needs of the golf the course and can understand the need for improvement. course. This will lead to the biggest difference in quality Another important part of the proposal is to honestly and and the greatest chance of future investment into the conservatively describe how the requested equipment, maintenance budget. Success with early requests will lead labour hours or supplies will alleviate the need described to better golfing experiences and hopefully, greater future in the first section. Often, this is because the request will investment into the course. Simply put, happy golfers are free up time to allow for better attention to detail repeat players. It is also important when evaluating the throughout the work day. Not only is it important to needs of your course not to let your personal desires over describe the benefit in terms of an improved golfing shadow the most pressing needs of the course. Requests experience but also in terms of future cost savings with must be made to benefit the course and not to fulfill your regards to annual expenses. Often a little fertilizer will be own personal desires. Often times the most pressing needs very beneficial in allowing the turfgrass to recover from a of a course may not be agronomic but rather a need for disease, more quickly alleviating the need for repeated new trash cans or tee stands that will best improve the fungicide applications. Sharper mower blades can lead to overall playing experience of the golfers. less injury and savings in terms of overall pesticide budgets. Proven Technologies If first you do not succeed When assessing your needs always look first to proven Keep trying, get feedback, and look at other solutions. There are many different products on the improvements that can be made. One key aspect of this market that claim to be the magical silver bullet that will process is not to get too fixated on a project and remember solve all of our management problems. Some of these that the success or failure of each individual proposal products do offer a benefit when grass is being pushed to should not be taken personally, but seen as an opportunity to improve and learn. Often, the best thing to come out of a proposal for improvements is a better line of communication between the superintendent and the owner, or greens committee. The most important aspect of this process is to be willing to listen and create a dialogue between the entire operation to deliver the best golfing experience for the client with the resources available. So you succeeded If you are fortunate enough to receive all or part of your request the next step is to make the best of what has been granted. That in itself is another article. I want to stress in this article the importance of proper communication. Keep the golfers and the owner/green committee aware throughout the process of the improvement. In addition, keep detailed records of cost expenses and realized savings. Take pictures of before and after each stage of the project, show your successes and communicate through the bumps in the road and everyone will be happy with the decisions. These will prove invaluable to show the golfers and the owners the value they received on their investment and will be invaluable for requesting future funds for improvements. All golf course superintendents could do a little bit more, and deliver a little bit better product to the golfers if they had a few more resources. The key to securing these resources are: • Recognize the true needs and identify the few projects that will deliver the greatest improvement in the golfing experience for each dollar spent. The hero of summer becomes the • Formulate a good solid proposal with the correct champion of spring. audience in mind. MAXXimize the health of your turf this spring with • Communicate throughout the process and definitely Subdue MAXX. A preventative application of Subdue show the improvements, either visually or in terms of cost savings. MAXX during the cool, wet weather has proven to be highly effective against pythium root rot. Use Subdue Often the biggest gain through this procedure is MAXX this spring for long lasting, cost effective opening lines of communication between owners, pythium root rot protection. management, greens committees golfers and you, the superintendent. www.syngenta.ca - www.greenpartnersonline.ca - www.engageagro.com Aeration/topdressing services Call 1-888-368-4211 x5525 to contact your For Greens, Tees and Fairways local Syngenta Turf Specialist Fast, clean and meticulous and learn more about Subdue MAXX. Ken Pavely 416-717-0943 kpavely@dolturf.com • www.dolturf.com Important: Always read and follow label instructions. ©2007 Syngenta Group Company. GreenPartners*, Subdue MAXX* and the Syngenta logo are trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Photo (C) Scott Rothstein www.bigstockphoto.com Above the hole by Rafik Lang-Bismillah, Student & Intern Senjan Golf Club, Fergus Cool mornings and the ever present threat of frost delays generally is’. Repetition became the buzz word of those few have finally given way to early mornings, heat and humidity. weeks. Instructions, tasks, expectations and safety warnings Heat and humidity may not always be our best ally, however, were all done once and then again, and unfortunately often complimented by cool rainy nights turf appears determined to once more. This is not to say that this particular student was keep us on our toes constantly. The days may be longer but it lazy or incompetent, rather he was probably like many other often feels as though there are more jobs than time permits. students his age. He needed clear directions, and constant Nevertheless, this is what we eagerly awaited all winter. The supervision, things we failed to properly deliver. This was a season is finally in full swing! lesson, regrettably learnt the hard way. Along with all the constant changes and improvements in There are certain fundamental concepts and practices management and practices made each season, this season which cannot be taught on the job. Motivation, diligence and brought us something new. We had a high school student initiative are necessary traits a person must possess. Having intern work for us over a two week co-op period. Having been staff members with these fundamentals, management becomes given the responsibility of managing the course this season, the a balancing act; defining the needs and expectations of the intern was placed under my charge. I was excited at the club and then managing those expectations. We learnt a opportunity to train somebody and teach them all I could valuable lesson with our first internship experience. With an about a profession I genuinely enjoy. intern, management shifts into the realm of teaching. A In a strange twist of fortune, the intern got an intern. Not prerequisite for teaching must be patience, an attribute I do a bad little deal right? Well that’s how it first appeared, until not have an abundance of. My experience with the intern, two weeks of free labour cost more in lost productivity than was blessedly short, gave me a new found respect for those who take saved in wages. Repeated instructions and half completed tasks the time and determination to teach someone. Hopefully our eventually did little but increase my own work load intern took something valuable away from his experience on substantially. the golf course, we certainly did! Summers are short, and members are not forgiving, therefore, the goal of management must be to reduce inefficiencies and bad practices in order to better accomplish the job. An intern seemed like the answer to the staffing issues of a small course like ours. He would be excited, hard working Mark Schneider and most importantly he would come as a blank slate, learning Technical Sales exactly how we expected things. We were mistaken; perhaps Maple Turf Supply Business: (905) 857-2000 even slightly naive in our assumptions. The concept seemed 8112 King Rd. W. Fax: (905) 857-8215 brilliantly simple in addition to being beneficial to all P.O. Box 370 Mobile: (519) 372-5181 Bolton, Ontario 1-800-268-4425 interested parties. That should have been my first warning; like L7E 5T3 Email: m___schneider@sympatico.ca the old adage says ‘anything that seems too good to be true, 154 Upper Centennial Parkway (HWY 20) www.JustSodit.com Stoney Creek, Ontario, HAMILTON SOD MOUNT HOPE Canada L8J 2T7 905-389-1315 ONTARIO SOD OAKVILLE Telephone 905-662-2663 • Fax 905-662-2253 905-849-1764 CAN-USA1-800-263-8606 NIAGARA SOD ST. CATHARINES 905-984-8448 Express Dual COMPACT SOD CAMBRIDGE & AngleMaster 519-653-7494 Reel Mower HALTON SOD MILTON Sharpeners 905-878-1011 The wav we were Can you Identify the person in this picture? Answers on page 29 QUALITY • ON TIME Supplying Canada’s top golf courses for over 45 years 1-800-461-5501 When only the best will do. www.manderley.com/golf Corrie Almack P.Ag. Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 Box 256, Carlisle, On Fax: (905) 689-8522 L0R 1H0 Em ail: c.almack@sympatico.ca TURF CARE The Toro GDC System •Design without complicated calculations. One cable can have up to 800 stations and be up to 2.7miles long. •Lower installation costs. The Toro GDC System minimizes wire usage and reduces overall system costs. •Reduce maintenance and downtime. Reduce troubleshooting time; activate 50 stations simultaneously. •Count on the Toro NSN Support Network. The first dedicated support network in the irrigation industry. For more information, contact your local Turf Care sales representative. The ToroGDC System Imagination has never been so affordable. Introducing the Toro CDC System, the easiest and most powerful decoder system available for golf course Irrigation. The Toro GDC System uses proven technology from the aerospace and aviation industries to provide a reliable and affordable irrigation solution for the complex designs of today's golf courses. Turf Care Products Canada www.turfcare.ca 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET, ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 • PHONE (905) 836-0988 • FAX (905) 836-6442 London Mississauga Scarborough Gloucester Ph: (519) 668-7664 Ph: (905) 890-6290 Ph: (416) 298-2101 Ph: (613) 822-1881 Fax: (519) 668-3722 Fax: (905) 890-5598 Fax: (416) 298-8758 Fax: (613) 822-2099 TELUS WORLD SKINS RETURNS TO ONTARIO by John Bladon Agrium Advanced Technologies The arrival of golf stars, John Daly, Stephen Ames, working split shifts, Georgian Bay Superintendents Retief Goosen, Colin Montgomerie and Geoff Ogilvy for a Association President, John Bontje and board member, match at the Raven Golf Club at Lora Bay sent the little Craig McCutcheon spent Sunday afternoon preparing and town of Thornbury, Ontario into a frenzy. No one could serving food to Chris and his hard working troops. have been more excited to have company coming than In the end, and after two days of great golf, it was OGSA member and Raven golf course superintendent, crowd favourite “Long” John Daly who captured his Chris LeCour. second consecutive title by virtue of an eagle at the par 5 Barely two years since construction began on the 13th hole capping off a two day skins total of $220,000. Thomas McBroom/Tom Lehman designed routing, Chris When John was asked what he would be doing with his has overseen both the construction and the grow-in on a winnings, he replied “I’ll be paying alimony, most likely” site where, aside from the odd washout, virtually every sending his fellow competitors into fits of laughter. The inch of the property was established from seed. The players also universally gave the golf course praise for its Raven is a departure from the design norm of the past conditioning. In spite of golf being at the forefront, the number of years as it features dwarf Kentucky bluegrass real winner was the Juvenile Diabetes Research fairways. The fact that this relatively young property is Foundation (JDRF) as Telus and the event raised over prepared to host a major event like the Telus World Skins $200,000 for the foundation and its search for a cure. is a testament to Chris’ efforts. Finally, it marks the first time since 2003 and Royal As the Raven’s maintenance team prepared the golf Niagara Golf Course that Ontario has played host to the course for the main event and preceeding Pro-Am, event. Braemar Building Systems Custom Design Quality Buildings Competitive Prices • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • New Buildings • Wood & Steel Structures For your FREE ESTIMATES call us at 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com Antique alley Brantford's finest working museum of turf equipment This Toro General is owned by Brantford Golf & a child at Latrobe CC where his father Deacon (Deke) Country Club. The only ‘official’ documentation says that Palmer was the golf course superintendent. Interestingly, the old girl is a ‘59. Paul Evenden, Superintendent of the General features a 9N engine and a Ford truck Brantford G&CC reports that he has had several offers to transmission and rear end. Of late, PGA Tour purchase, but has refused them all! Paul reports, “she is commissioner Tim Finchem actually presented Arnold in semi-retirement but we still use the General in the fall Palmer with a restored 1922 version, that runs on to tow our leaf sweeper” kerosene and has no brakes, for his 76th birthday. Arnold The Toro General was initially made famous in still keeps a small collection of Generals to this day. Pennzoil commercials in the 1970’s and 80’s. The oil was If you have an old piece of equipment, in operating endorsed by Arnold Palmer and Arnie drove a 1947 condition, still being used on your golf course, provide us version of the General in the Pennzoil advertisements. with a photo, description, and year and we will print it in Near and dear to his heart, Arnie first rode the General as Green is Beautiful’s Antique alley. Is your turf ready for Summer Stress? Primer 604 takes the guesswork out of surviving the heat of summer: • Balances soil moisture for optimum performance • Increases survival of drought and heat stress • Controls soil water repellency • Choose from liquid or granular formulation Canada’s Leading Surfactant 1273 Imperial Way • Paulsboro, NJ 08066 U.S.A. • 1-800-257-7797 • www.aquatrols.com On the REEL side of things Mike McGrath Equipment Technician, Greystone Golf Club A quality cut takes more than a mower a golf course, getting the best cut out of your of keeping rollers clean and watching for foreign material equipment is always a challenge. Everyday there are four on the cutting surface (i.e. ball markers, gravel, etc.). things that affect your mower’s performance: Another tip for operators to be aware of is their cutting speed, extra weight caused by over loaded buckets and • cutter set up obstacles such as sprinkler heads. These factors will • operator definitely affect your quality of cut. • debri Turf conditions will also dictate how well your mowers • course conditions are working. Wet, soft soil spring conditions will often dictate heights for you. Raising your height of cut in the Turf equipment needs constant care as units have many spring, lowering it slowly to correspond with seasonal moving parts that require attention. The most important changes is necessary. Fairways can be especially part of any piece of equipment is the cutting units, as challenging when choosing height of cut. Most fairways these are the “business” end of the machine. Therefore, it do not receive the same care and attention as your greens stands to reason that you should spend most of your time and tend to create more varied conditions throughout the maintaining them. playing surface. Fairway units usually have ground Sharpening and set up are a huge part of a mechanics pressure adjustments, which when used in conjunction day, and any way to reduce this time can be valuable. In with your height of cut can deliver improved results. my experience, taking each cutter through a full service By paying particular attention to the issues that can once a year reduces cutting problems throughout the affect your cutters and being proactive in reducing any season. Spending time with each cutting unit, checking it potential problems, will ensure that you are delivering the thoroughly for loose hardware, damaged parts, failing best quality of cut possible. This will ultimately allow you bearings and seized adjustments saves time in the long to maintain a fleet that will make you, your run. Also, reducing grinding time is simple - set up your superintendent and your turf happy. cutters more often and you will grind less. There are many different ways to set up a cutter, as there are mechanics. This is obviously too large a topic to cover here, but what I have found works best is following the manufacturers suggested set up. Be flexible, if you have different manufacturers you may have to set up your Simon George Technical Sales equipment differently (i.e. contact vs. no contact). Your operator can also have a huge effect on your cut Maple Turf Supply Business: (905) 857-2000 quality. A well trained operator will watch and care for 8112 King Rd. W. Fax: (905) 857-8215 your cutters while he/she is on the course. With P.O. Box 370 Mobile: (519) 841-3378 Bolton, Ontario 1-800-268-4425 operators, a little time spent explaining the operation of L7E 5T3 sg142@hotmail.com the cutters will help them to understand the importance "We Sell & Transplant Large Trees" Doug Hubble Sales and Marketing Manager 519.770.3157 • Dedicated exclusively to dhubble@agriumat.com Large Tree Transplanting www.douglaswood.ca • 25 Years of Experience • Nursery Grown, Common John Bladon & Rare Trees IPM Coordinator / Technical Sales • Projects from 1 -1000 Trees 519.574.2013 jbladon@agriumat.com 1 800.353.3019 • T. 519.856.2771 • F. 519.856.1447 www.nu-groturf.com P.O. Box 339 Rockwood ON Canada NOB 2K0 Zero in on fairway disease control. Strong enough for your greens - economic enough for your fairways. COMPASS 50WG has everything you need in a strobilurin fungicide: excellent disease control, broad spectrum activity and low use rates. 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The winners of the Dodson (treas.), Paul Dermott (past pres.), Bill Bowen, Ron event were Markland Wood, Bob Heron and Ken Duggan, Allen, Paul White, Ken Nelson, Hugh Kirkpatrick and Bill Conestoga Golf Course, Bruce Vollet and Ron Silver and Hynd (editor). Glen Shields, Barry Endicott and Fergus Gallagher. Low The 7th Annual OGSA Symposium was held at the superintendent was Bill Bowen 77. Rosedale Golf and Country Club hosted by John Grightmire. There was a meeting held at the Oshawa Golf Club on 112 superintendents, assistants and guests attended. AI February 16th with 45 superintendents and guests Beeney was the chairman and Keith Nisbet and Jack Eggens attending. Rusty Warkman was host and after the meeting conducted the speakers for the day. The speakers were Bob curling followed. On March 30th, there was a meeting held Kennedy, Bernie MacDonald, Paul White, Doug Hoskins, at North Halton Golf & Country Club hosted by Allan Paul Dermott, Dennis Pellrene and Helmot Kopp. Dan Beeney. After lunch, 32 curlers competed for the OGSA Ardley made comments on Regionalizatian because of the Curling Championship and the team of Dennis Pellrene, geographic problem of Ontario being such a big province. Ron Craig, Doug Heron and Jack Austin were the winners. The Annual Turf Managers Short Course was held at the There was a Westem/OGSA joint meeting held at the University of Guelph with 31 students attending. Top Dundas Valley Golf Club hosted by AI Schantz on April 28th students in the class were Merv Mill from the City of and a meeting was held at Sunningdale hosted by Ken Burlington, Doug Meyer, Superintendent at Val des Lacs in Nelson on May 12th. Low gross went to Bill Bowen 76, low St. Sophie, Larry Peakock, Assistant Superintendent at net Joe Reid 69. In September a meeting was held at Parkview, Bill Hale, Superintendent at Puslinch, Henry Chinguacousy with Henry Guertin as host. This was a Best House, Streetsville, Howie Schnarr, Chelmsford, Ian True, Ball tournament with Blake McMaster, Brampton, and Alliston, David Wray, Tam O’Shanter, Gib Dow, Ironwood Scotty Orr, Kleinburg winning in a playoff with a net of 65. Golf Club and Ed Hendricks from Kitchener. Bob Heron, Markland Woods and Gord Putney, Bayview was The CGSA held their 28th Turfgrass Show at the Calgary 3rd with a 66. On August 25th there was a monthly meeting Inn from March 14th to the 17th. The president of the held at the Wildewood Golf Club hosted by John Smith. Dr. CGSA was Larry Brown. The 48th GCSAA Turf Conference Fustney and Norm McCollum were in attendance from the and Show was held at Portland, Oregon on February 6th to University of Guelph. First low gross was Bill Bowen with a 11 th. Gord Witteveen retired from the Board after 4 years 74, 2nd was Hugh Kirkpatrick 78 and Steve Miller with an of service. 80. An OGSA turf equipment demonstration was held at the The Canadian Open was held from July 21 - 24 at Glen Cambridge Research Station on September 8th. On Abbey. Dennis Pellrene was the superintendent. Glen December 2nd the Christmas party was held at St. Georges Abbey is now the permanent home of the Canadian Open. Country Club hosted by Bill Hynd. Dennis was previously the superintendent at Erie Downs Gord Witteveen scored a hole in one during his vacation Golf and Country Club for 3 years and prior to that assistant in Florida. John Stoughton, from the Barrie Country Club, to John Piccolo at St. Catharines. was recovering from a minor operation. Bill Hynd won a The 9th Annual Field Day - University of Guelph Turf trip to Eluethera in the Bahamas for being the closest to the Plots was held at the Galt Country Club on June the 9^, hole at La Chute Quebec at the CGSA Annual Fall Field Day. hosted by Paul Scenna. With 91 participants the low He later had to give up the prize because it was over the superintendents were George Garner 76, Bill Bowen 76, $250.00 allowable for amateurs set by the RCGA. Mr. Bob Heron 77 and Bill Glashan 81. Elwood McCarther passed away suddenly on June 9th after a The President, Green Chairman, Superintendent brief illness at the age of 64. Elwood was the superintendent Tournament was held at the Islington Golf Club on July 8th at the Scarboro Golf Club from 1956 to 1977 and before that hosted by Thom Charters. Forty teams competed and the at the Glendale Golf Club. Paul Dermott moved from winning teams were as follows: Bayview Golf and Country Islington to Oakdale Golf Club and Helmet Kopp moved to Club, Ed Ortleib; Aurora Highlands, Whitey Jones; Glen St. Charles Golf Club in Winnipeg. There was a position Eagle Golf Club, Bill Calhoun; Glen Abbey, Dennis Pellrene; advertised for a superintendent at the Essex Golf and and Dalewood Golf & Curling Club, Hugh Kirkpatrick. The Country which was filled by Bill Fach. The way we were... answer from page 23, Alan Beeney, OGSA President - 1977 Turf or consequences by Doug Breen, Superintendent Golf North Properties Night Watering In the days before I-pods, we used to have this thing called tough to convince one of them that it would be fun to go for a night watering. If you’re under thirty, there’s a very real ride after their shift ended, and often you had the opportunity possibility that you have absolutely no idea what I’m talking to soak a couple who had “gone for a walk” at the end of a about. But if you ever owned a copy of Led Zepplin IV on 8- wedding reception. track, we’re about to take a walk down memory lane. On the But I readily admit, that on the nights that you were out other hand, if you’re young enough that you never even had there alone, a fellow with an active imagination like mine, Zepplin IV on cassette tape (or heaven forbid, don’t know who could get pretty scared. There are a lot of eyes reflecting back Led Zepplin is), then just stop reading now and go chat with at you from all angles. I nearly ran into a deer in the fog once. your “friends” on Facebook. In those days, owners didn’t need I had to fight off a raccoon with a Rainbird, and got beat up by multi million dollar irrigation systems - they had us. They a drunken groomsman in the parking lot. I’ve gotten didn’t need two sets of heads to avoid over watering the greens, disoriented and dropped into bunkers, and nearly hung myself or part circle heads, or pumping stations - they had us. Back in with ropes strung between trees. I was out there one night the dark ages, it was a man, a couple miles of leaky hose, a when a satellite burned up during re-entry on the horizon. I’d bunch of heads on rollers, and maybe some headlights. been reading Communion, and was sure that aliens had landed You’d go out at dusk, at right about the same time that all on the farm next door. Once a skin diver sneaked onto the your friends were going out to the movies, or the bar, or property and was floating in the pond. In the darkness, I anyplace else where there might be giggles to be had. But thought that a golfer had drowned, and nearly shat myself instead, you’d hop on a cart, grab a roller head from the top of when he jumped up after I poked him with a stick. the neatly coiled hose, and drag it uncoiling behind you to the Many people are unaware that during times of drought, the area that you needed to water. If you were good at it, you could dry soil causes the nights to be much colder. Night waterers lay the head exactly where you wanted it without ever getting knew this, because the last job of the night was to roll up the off of the cart. In the interest of speed, many rookies would hoses in out of play areas. The hoses were cold, wet and stiff. hold the head by the impact mechanism in their hand as they So were you. And halfway through rolling up the third freezing dragged 100 feet of hose behind. This was a mistake. cold hose with your numb, wet hands, you’d slide onto a razor Eventually, a quick coupler key would catch on a tree trunk in sharp hose clamp from some long forgotten repair. Many the dark, and pull your arm out of its socket or tear off a finger times, the older hoses would have more repairs than hose. This or two. Henceforth the head would be clamped on the would lead to profuse bleeding. floorboards with a foot. Just as the sun was coming up, you’d drag yourself home for Once all the heads were in place, you’d go start the pump. a few hours sleep, only to find the girl that you’d been pursuing Often diesel. Often unreliable. Many deals have been made for six months having breakfast with your roommate. They with God in the darkness at this point. Many is the wayward met at a party while you were working. A perfect end to a soul who has knelt beside the starter button and promised to perfect day - I don’t miss it. There are still courses out there be a better man, if only the Good Lord would allow that pump irrigating this way, and I firmly believe that every young to start just one more time and make it through one more superintendent wannabe should be forced to operate one of night. The road to Damascus has nothing on drought stress these systems for a season, just so they appreciate what’s and lack of sleep. available now. Besides, in a twisted sort of way, it was pretty fun. In truth, I failed Irrigation 101. Don’t go looking for that course in the University of Guelph syllabus; it isn’t there. In my first year on the course, I was happily raking bunkers in the daylight one afternoon, when I was given the opportunity to do some night watering. Not knowing what that was, and being eager to please, I cheerfully accepted. Two nights later, I was zipping around in the dark and ran over a quick coupler with a key in it. The next morning, I learned about Irrigation Repair 101. Now it wasn’t all bad out there. Owners would usually turn a blind eye to the fact that the night waterer would often bring someone with him to ride shotgun for the night; like a buddy, or a girlfriend, or a buddy’s girlfriend. Of course, it was always tough to convince someone to give up a night out on a weekend, but fortuitously, weekends were also the nights that the banquet halls would be full of waitresses. It was never really too For the Love of Turf. 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