Fall 2010 Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents Association Taking Root in the Turfgrasss Species Display Garden Also inside this issue........ 2010 Diagnostics in Review Smart Phone Apps for Superintendents Autumn Checklist for Equipment Technicians Canada Post Publications Mail Publications Agreement No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., R.R. #2 Guelph, ON N1L 0H2 SNOW MOULD CONTROL FOR THE Thinking Super It’s a no Brainer! INSIGNIA® plus PREMIS® for Snow Mould Once the snow melts, turf problems like snow mould can rear their ugly heads, and it’s time to get to work. Or is it? Now, with INSIGNIA® and PREMIS® working together to provide superior preventative and lasting control of many turf diseases, including pink and grey snow mould, you’ll have one less thing to think about come Spring. Try INSIGNIA® and PREMIS® together. Yes, another “Thinking Super’s” solution, only from BASF. Can you afford NOT to play with these guys? For more information go to www.BetterTurf.ca BetterTurf ™ is a trademark of BASF. INSIGNIA® is a registered trade-mark of BASF Corporation, PREMIS® is a registered trademark of BASF Trademarks GMBH, both used with permission by BASF Canada Inc. © 2010 BASF Corporation. All rights reserved. Always read and follow label directions before product use. President's message Green is the golf season passes and we move closer to winter, As hopefully your fall programs were completed and executed as Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association planned. Fall is such an important and busy time of year for the health of our golf clubs. With so much to be completed Editor this time of year and the jump start of the 2010 season, I believe Dorothy Hills I speak for all golf superintendents, when I say, we are looking by JeffAlexander ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca forward to slowing it down and enjoying a well deserved break Parry Sound Golf & from the fast pace of our Ontario golf year. The off season is a Country Club Publisher & Advertising Manager Terry Davey great time to look back and evaluate what worked, what didn’t, what changes are terry@blenheim.ca needed and how to incorporate them into your departments. Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 To ensure you stay current with our ever changing industry, Doug Breen has worked very hard with his committee, OGSA staff and management company Administration Manager to create three days of education opportunities at our 2011 Golf Course Diane Davey Management Conference and Trade Show at Caesars Windsor, January 12-14, diane@blenheim.ca 2011. Along with these top-notch educational sessions, we have planned some Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 103 great social gatherings you will not want to miss! Gerry Dee, Canadian Stand-up Production & Design Comedian, will kick off the conference on Wednesday morning at the Opening Jeanette Thompson Ceremonies. This venue is like no other! For complete conference information jeanettethompson@mac.com visit www.golfsupers.on.ca and click on the conference link. Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 A special thank you to golf superintendents who have hosted an event for their regional associations this season: Dan Dingman, Gross Ile G&CC; Randy Booker, Green is Beautiful is published four times Otter Creek GC; Martin Kopp, Brampton GC; Ray Dlugokecki, Springfield a year (November / March / June / August) G&CC; Dan Magrin BraeBen GC and Bill Fach, Black Bear Ridge GC for hosting by Blenheim INK for: successful OGSA events. I would like to thank Pat Thomas and Deborah Badger for all the support they give the directors and making our association wonderful. For those wondering about the executive manager position advertised on our website recently, it’s because Dorothy Hills will be retiring from her post April 29th, 2011. Dorothy has been employed with us since 1998 and she is the backbone of our association. Dorothy, we appreciate your hard work and dedication in Ontario Golf Superintendents' making the OGSA successful. I would also like to thank all my directors for their Association commitment to helping make the OGSA strong. Guelph Turfgrass Institute At this time I would like to mention with great sorrow the sudden passing 328 Victoria Road South of Mark Elliott, on Wednesday, October 6th. Mark was only 39 years old and Guelph, ON N1L0H2 managing partner of Tangle Creek Golf Club in Barrie. He held a diploma from Tel: 519-767-3341 Guelph University and the Cornell short course. He worked at National Pines Toll Free: 877-824-6472 under Chris Goodman and went on to be the golf course superintendent at Fax:519-766-1704 Maples of Ballantrae before constructing Tangle Creek. Mark leaves behind his Email: ogsa@gti.uoguelph.ca wife, Susan and four young children. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go www.golfsupers.on.ca out to the entire family. Mark will be missed by all. Please take time to enjoy family and friends and have a happy holiday season! Brett Murray Direct Line 416-659-1020 Published by: Manager Fax Line 519-941-0931 Blenheim INK Adminstration Office: P.O. Box 218 Orangeville, ON 4305 Fairview Street, Suite 232 L9W 2Z6 Burlington, ON L7L 6E8 Production Office: 1727 King Street East, Cambridge, ON N3H 3R6 Mixed Sources Product group from well-managed Toll Free: 1-877-618-8696 brettmurray@primus.ca forests and other controlled sources Cert no. SW-COC-004093 Fax:519-340-0293 www.fsc.org ©1996 Forest Stewardship Council www.blenheim.ca Contents Green is TURFGRASS SPECIES DISPLAY GARDEN...................................... Above the hole..................................................................................... 18 21 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Alex McClumpha memorial golf tournament............................. 15 Assistants Tournament....................................................................... 15 Chainsaw maintenance ...................................................................... 28 Editorial message ................................................................................ 5 From roots to shoots.......................................................................... 8 Golf course highlight - BraeBen Golf Course.............................. 17 Health & safety .................................................................................... 10 Looking back ........................................................................................ 33 Member profile - Justin Parsons..................................................... 12 Off the fairway .................................................................................... 30 OGSA summer scramble .................................................................... 14 On the REEL side of things................................................................ 29 President's message ........................................................................... 3 Second to one ...................................................................................... 20 Superintendents recognition program 2010................................ 13 COVER PICTURE Super-smart phones............................................................................ 22 Westmount Golf and CC Turf or consequences .......................................................................... 34 Autumnal Equinox University of Guelph update ............................................................ 24 From the 5th fairway looking towards the green. What's new............................................................................................. 6 Photo byJeremy Krueger, Assistant Superintendent Advertisers GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Agrium Advanced Technologies ................................................ 25,35 Dorothy Hills Almack Agronomic Services Inc...................................................... 31 Tom Brain Aquatrols............................................................................................... 5 Paul Grotier ArborTurf Solutions ........................................................................... 29 Jason Hanna Scott Horsburgh Bayer Environmental Science - Rovral Green GT...................... 7 Justin Parsons Braemar Building Systems............................................................... 11 Andy Sandilands Burnside Golf ....................................................................................... 27 DCS Agronomic Services .................................................................. 31 Green is Beautiful 2010 Douglas Wood Large Tree Service.................................................. 27 Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the association is not responsible Fast Forest ............................................................................................ 31 for material published on behalf of its contributors. All rights are reserved by the publisher and any Green Horizons Group of Farms .................................................... 11 reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. H & M Turf Ltd....................................................................................... 3 Although some trade names may be mentioned Innovative Agronomics Inc............................................................... 33 in articles contained in this publication, no endorsement is intended or implied by the Ontario Maple Turf Supply .............................................................................. 26 Golf Superintendents' Association. Master's Turf Supply Ltd.................................................................... 31 Ontario Seed Company .................................................................... 27 OGSA is committed to Plant Products - Thinking Super .................................................... 2 serving its members, Turf Care Products Canada - Irrigation ........................................ 21 advancing their Turf Care Products Canada............................................................... 36 profession, and United Agri Products Inc. - Rhapsody.......................................... 11 enriching the quality United Agri Products Inc. - Respond 3......................................... 27 of golf and Vanden Bussche Irrigation ............................................................... 14 its environment Zander Sod Co. Limited.................................................................... 27 Editorial message As the 2010 golf season draws to torch along, and we wish her well in all her future endeavours, a close I hope you are enjoying some both on and “Off the fairway”. And so, it is my pleasure to leisure time and will be able to benefit welcome Brenda Noble, Head Gardener at Donald Club. from the articles in this Fall issue of Brenda has picked up the torch from Daisy and has authored Green is Beautiful. the article on winter gardens, “Never Say Die”. Brenda will be Peter Purvis, Station Manager and Rob a regular contributor to the magazine. Witherspoon, Director of the Guelph Please take time to read this issues’ member profile on Turfgrass Institute bring you an account Justin Parsons, Assistant Superintendent at Trafalgar Golf of the planning and development of the and Country Club. Justin has been a part of the editorial by Dorothy Hills Turfgrass Species Display Garden, at the committee for several years and has authored and co­ GTI, which began in August of 2009. Scott Morrison, from authored many an article. I am happy to announce Justin Out On A Limb, offers some information on how golf course will officially be taking over the position of Green is Beautiful superintendents can utilize smart phones to aid them in being Editor, commencing with the 2011 Winter Issue. I will be effective communicators and time managers. Since now is the retiring in the spring of 2011 and am proud to have been a time to start thinking about chainsaw maintenance, Darryl part of OGSA’s official magazine. Thank you to the editorial James, from Arborturf Solutions has some valuable tips for committee, the directors, staff members Pat Thomas and you. Our regular contributors, as always, offer timely articles Deborah Badger, and all of OGSA’s membership for their ranging from turfgrass diagnostics to health and safety in the support over the past 13 years. Thanks for the memories workplace. Due to career and family obligations Greig Barker has I would like to take this opportunity to thank Daisy Moore decided to resign from the Editorial Committee. Greig has for the many years she has contributed to the regular column volunteered his services for the past 6 years and I would like “Off the fairway”. Daisy is a professional horticulturist and to take this opportunity to thank him for his contributions owner of a garden design and consulting business in Elora. and support of Green is Beautiful. Good luck Greig in all your With a busy family and professional agenda, she always took future endeavours. the time to write a column geared to tips and guidance on As always, don’t hesitate to contact any of the editorial implementing low maintenance and environmentally friendly committee listed on page 4, with your comments and plantings for the golf course. Daisy has decided to pass the suggestions. Superintendents worldwide put their trust in Revolution to maintain the highest levels ofturf quality and playability on their greens, even under stress. Contact your local distributor today to see what Revolution can do for you. • Uniform moisture, even across slopes • Consistency ofturf conditions • Drier, firmer putting surfaces The superintendent's choice • Less hand watering for superior turf performance. • Easier to re-wet after drydown • Quicker recovery from stress 800-257-7797 www.aquatrols.com What's new OGSA MEMBERSHIP DUES www.golfsupers.on.ca. into the final contest for “Dog of the Membership dues invoices were Log into the Members Only section Year” to be voted on at the GCSAA mailed out September 1st and were and go to “Member News”. They will Orlando conference in February. If due October 1st. If you have not be posted by December 1 st. Ifyou have it wins, $3,000 goes to a golf course already received your dues invoice a problem accessing them, please call superintendent association chosen would you please contact the office the office for assistance. You will also by the winner. It would be great if all to ensure that your invoice was sent be advised in our e-bulletin Clippings superintendents from Ontario who to your current address and that your when these reports are available for go down to the show in February vote information on file is up to date. If you viewing. for Bronson, the only Canadian entry! have not yet paid your membership The package can also be viewed dues would you please contact the at our offices at: 328 Victoria Road office immediately to ensure that your South, Guelph, Ontario, N1L 0H2 member services continue without If you require a hard copy of these interruption. reports please notify Dorothy Hills at the office: Toll Free (877) 824-6472 or (519) 767-3341 and a package will be Welcome! For Membership Services including database information contact: mailed to you. OGSA Welcomes our Pat Thomas newest members GCSAA BOARD OF Jeff Clark Class A ogsa2@gti.uoguelph.ca DIRECTORS ELECTION Pineland Greens GC Any one wishing to have input or For Accounts Receivable/Payable opinions expressed regarding the 2011 Stephen Gelencser Class C contact: GCSAA Board of Directors election in Lakeridge Links GC Deb Badger Orlando must notify the OGSA Board ogsa3@gti.uoguelph.ca Carol-Ann Goering Class D by midnight December 31st. After Oakville Golf Club such time, the decision of the Board ONTARIO GOLF regarding candidate support shall be Derek Guest Class F SUPERINTENDENTS' final. Rattlesnake Point GC ASSOCIATION 2009-2010 Francois Hebert Class S YEAR END REPORTS VOTE FOR BRONSON! University of Guelph The following is a list of the OGSA reports, required for the Brian Hughes Class F Annual General Meeting to be held Fort McMurray GC Thursday, January 13th, 2011 at 7:45 Chad Hurrell Class A AM., at Caesars Windsor, during the Beaverdale Golf Club Ontario Golf Course Management Conference and Trade Show. These Ryan Milani Class A reports will be available on our Thunder Bay CC website by December 1st, 2010. Kerri Mulder Class S • Director Election Notice. Scenic Woods GC • End of Year Audited Financial Statements for period October 1, Congratulations to Superintendent, Drew Peddie Class F 2009 through September 30, Aldo Bortolon and his golf course dog Caves Valley GC 2010. Bronson, at Lookout Point Country Club in Fonthill. The Lebanon Turf Mikael Pehkonen Class S • End of Year Director Portfolio University of Guelph Reports. Dog Days Golf Calendar committee • Minutes from 2010 Annual has chosen Bronson to appear in Darren Wiggins Class Supt General Meeting. their 2011 calendar. It is quite the Burlington Springs G & CC According to our bi-law these prestigious contest to win. Bronson is the only dog that made it in from Clean Light Inc. Class E reports can be accessed, as soon as Harry Shea they are available, on our web site Canada. The photo will now go Don't let the stunning fall colours distract you. We all know what is coming... When the only colour you want to see is green. When fall rolls around, Rovral Green GT is the choice to prevent pink and grey snow mould. (fall colours exempt) Stop the damage on your greens, tees and fairways caused by Fusarium patch, Pink snow mould and Grey snow mould. Use Take advantage of the BAYER FALL DISCOUNT Rovral Green GT from Bayer Environmental Science. and build your own fall and winter fungicide Now available to be tank mixed with Compass 50WG and program. See website for complete details. Chipco Triton for complete snow mould control. For more information contact Bayer Environmental Science www.bayeres.ca 1-888-283-6847 BACKED Quebec: 514-949-2467 Ontario/Western Canada: 905-319-8981 Ontario/Atlantic Canada: 519-239-3983 ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL INSTRUCTIONS. Rovral Green GT is a registered trademark of Bayer. by BAYER.. From roots to shoots Kocide 2000 URMULE accepted for moss control on golf and lawn bowling greens In July 2010, a maximum of five applications can use to control silvery thread moss on a User Requested be applied per season. For areas that golf and bowling greens in Canada. Minor Use Label do not have permanent snow cover Expansion was ac­ in the winter, the applications can be Arrest Status cepted for Kocide made from late fall to early spring. In Arrest was another popular by Pam Charbonneau OMAF Turfgrass Specialist 2000 (active in­ areas that have permanent snow cover preventative snow mould control gredient copper in the winter, the recommended time option. Just a reminder that as of Dec. hydroxide) for the control of silvery of application is from mid-September 31, 2009 the registration of Arrest thread moss on golf course and lawn to permanent snow cover. This lapsed. The product can be sold by bowling greens in Canada. DuPont URMULE application was sponsored distributors until Dec. 31, 2010 and Canada has submitted the proposed by Caroline Bédard, British Columbia can be used up until Dec. 31, 2013. label in August 2010 which will Ministry of Agriculture and Lands with complete the registration process data generated in British Columbia Quintozene status and is awaiting the registration. It is on golf courses on Vancouver Island, and replacements anticipated that the registration will the lower mainland as well as the As you are probably well aware of by be complete for 2011 season. The Guelph Turfgrass Institute and a local now, on June 24, 2010 Health Canada proposed label states a minimum of golf course in Guelph, Ontario. This published a decision document four applications are necessary and is the first product ever registered for (RVD2010-06) regarding quintozene Table 1. List of Active Ingredients registered for control of snow moulds in Ontario Active Ingredient Chemical Family Mode of Action Notes azoxystrobin strobilurin Acropetal* penetrant Are potent but efficacy may be shorter than quintozene *mo Are potentbutef icacymaybe shorter thanquintozene *movedupwardinthe plant pyraclostrobin strobilurin Localized penetrant trifloxystrobin strobilurin Localized penetrant Are potent but efficacy may be shorter than quintozene *moved upward in the plant Have good efficacy but may be even shorter propiconazole DMI Acropetal penetrant residual than the strobilurins Have good efficacy but may be even shorter triticonazole DMI Acropetal penetrant residual than the strobilurins myclobutanil triazole Acropetal penetrant Have good efficacy but may be even shorter residual than the strobilurins thiophanate-methyl benzimidazole Acropetal penetrant Good against pink but not gray snow moulds Good against pink snow mould but needs to be irpodione dicarboximide Localized penetrant combined with other actives for control of the gray snow moulds (either a DMI or a strobilurin) Good when used in combination and better than each fungicide on its own. Sometimes chlorothalonil nitrile contact incompatibilities have been observed in the combinations Only available as part of Arrest™. Has long thiram carbamate contact duration, Only available but notasalways highly part of effective. Arrest™. Has long carbithiin anilide systemic Better duration, against butgray notsnow moulds always highlythan pink. effective. Better against gray snow moulds than pink. oxycarboxin carboxamide systemic Only available as part of Arrest™. Has long duration, but not always highly effective. Only registered as part of Intrata™. Instrata™ fludioxinil phenylpyrrole contact Better against gray snow moulds than pink. give good results on pink and gray snow moulds use in Canada. As of December 31, will be able to purchase it for use Typhula incarnata or T ishikariensis). 2010, all turf uses of quintozene before Dec. 31, 2010. So for many golf Microdochium nivale can occur without fungicide will be cancelled. After course superintendents that relied any snow and can be found on all that date, no products for turf will on quintozene as their backbone for golf courses in Ontario regardless of be allowed to be imported, sold or snow mould control, it may be the location. Typhula incarnata requires used in Canada. As far as granular status quo for this year. Next season 60 plus days of snow cover to develop products containing quintozene will be an entirely different situation. and T ishikariensis requires 90 plus fungicide and fertilizers, the There are many fungicides that give days of snow cover to develop, so Canadian Food Inspection Agency as good or better control of the snow depending on the year and your has not yet released information on moulds than quintozene, but not at location you could experience T how long these combination products the same cost as quintozene. In the incarnata only or Typhula incarnata and can continue to be used on golf future, you are no longer going to T ishikariensis. Control strategies will courses in Canada. Some distributors rely on one chemistry for the control also rely on budgets. Timing is also are proactively halting the sales of the of snow mould. Most likely you will important. If you are using a systemic granular combination products as of be moving to a tank mix of a contact (propiconazole, triticonazole, Dec. 31,2010. and a systemic or a combination mycobutanil or thiophanate methyl) The word on the street is that supply product such as Instrata™. You you will need to apply these products of the wettable powder is limited and will also need to be more aware of 2-3 weeks before snow fall. already spoken for. The supply of the which of the three species of snow Table 1 lists are active ingredients flowable products is good and courses mould you have (Microdochium nivale, registered for control of pink and gray snow moulds and Table 2 lists some Table 2. List of tank mixes and combination products for use against snow of the tank mixes and combination moulds in Ontario produtts that are being promoted by the various manufacturers and Tank Mix or distributors. The notes section in Table 1 incorporates comments from Active Ingredients Combination Dr. Tom Hsiang on their strengths or Product weaknesses in regards to controlling snow moulds. For more information thiophanate-methyl + chlorothalonil Tank mix on life after quintozene, Dr. Tom Hsiang is going to be giving a talk on that subject at the Ontario Turfgrass iprodione + chlorothalonil Tank mix Symposium on Wed. Feb. 23, 2011. iprodione + trifloxystrobin Tank mix Integrated Pest Management Accreditation Program (IPMAP) Deadline Reminders iprodione + triticonazole Tank mix IPM agents that successfully completed their IPM agent exam during the 2009 calendar year or iprodione + chlorothalonil + propiconazole Tank mix in previous years, must submit their annual IPM CEC's for Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2010 calendar year by Dec. 31,2010. pyradostrobin + triticonazole Tank mix The other deadline to remember is the deadline for submitting the Combination 2010 desk audit is Jan. 31st, 2011. carbithiin/oxycarboxin/thiram For more information go to the product IPMAP web site at: Combination www.ontarioipm.com chlorothalonil/propiconazole /fludioxonil product Health & safety Safety things to do to avoid trouble The Ontario Ministry of Labour the inspector to catch you guessing when asking you has been in the news a fair amount these questions concerning your safety program. If you have not past few months so I really believe that yet developed your health and safety program and if it is it is time to provide some sage advice to not written down, then don’t try to fake it. Tell the truth you to consider prior to having a visit and you will probably be better off in the long run. The from an inspector. inspector may issue an order to comply but will probably by DougJohnson I have sent out many notes and articles not fine you and the organization for non compliance. You SAFETAID and Health and Safety Consulting talking about blitzes by the Ministry may need to scramble a bit to get up to speed but you may First Aid and Safety and I have tried to reinforce the need also be able to buy yourselves some breathing room. Supplies and WHMIS to be prepared with your health and Remember: the greater the number of violations at a facility, the Training safety initiatives. The Ministry has a more likely it is that the Ministry will scrutinize the company’s recent mandate to search out organizations that are not safety record. in compliance. One simple injury may be the trigger that activates your file. Don't ignore employee complaints Every day brings new stories of orders and fines with or incident reports much higher penalties. The Ministry is looking for “wilful” A “wilful” violation may occur if the employer knew and “repeated” violations. that a standard had been violated or that an employee There are steps employers should take to avoid safety complained of danger, or worse, incident reports had been violations, such as compliance reviews or audits that may ignored. be completed by doing a walk around each week or month A careful employer will review employee complaints, to spot violations before the inspector does. It may be incident reports and minutes of safety meetings. Making difficult for even the most diligent employer to pass an sure every item is properly evaluated and if found to be inspector’s white-glove test but if you haven’t done the a problem, either fixed or scheduled for fixing with basics you haven’t got a chance. alternative protective measures implemented in the Some violations inevitably will be found, but you can interim. Employers should not allow unaddressed items avoid having them classified as “wilful” and “repeated” in such documents to smolder in their files, ready to be violations, which carry much higher penalties (up to fanned into wilfulness by an inspector. $50,000 per violation) and much greater consequences, Remember: the inspector has every right to read all your such as civil liability and adverse press attention. documentation and ask questions of anyone in yourfacility. Don't argue with the standards Don't argue with the inspector Among the worst things an employer can say to an When an inspector comes into your workplace you may inspector is that they did not comply with a standard be tempted to argue with the individual. Don’t. It will not because compliance was “unnecessary to keep my people get you anywhere. safe.” There are owners and managers who think that such Listen, ask for clarifications if you do not understand. a statement will help get them off the hook by showing that Always ask the inspector to explain where the requirements they were thinking about worker safety. They are wrong. are in the Act and regulations. Don’t be afraid to ask Such a statement can indicate the violation was wilful and questions, but ask with the intention of learning. No can result in fines and, if an employee dies, may result in inspector can take you to task for trying to improve the safe criminal prosecution. working conditions of the workplace. A careful employer will learn the rules and train managers to ensure no one will try to invent a response. If you need assistance I am here to help. Prepare ahead Stating that complying with the standard is “unnecessary” of time and you will relieve a great amount of stress. gets the employer and manager into more trouble, not less. Remember: the law requires all employers and managers to do Have a great autumn! The weather is beautiful. everything reasonable for the safety of the worker. SAFETAID Making safety your 1st priority! Know your safety history T. 519-837-0997 • F. 519-837-1996 It is important to know the history of incidents and Consulting, Safety and First Aid Supplies safety management in your organization. Don’t allow doug@safetaid.ca Some things just work. Solving the problem of disease control. Protect your turf from dollar spot, brown SOD EXPERTS patch and anthracnose with Rhapsody LEADING EDGE TURFGRASS TECHNOLOGY fungicide. With three modes of action, Rhapsody harnesses the power of biochemistry in a way that sets it apart from other fungicides, protecting your turf from diseases, and increasing turf quality, while reducing the need for synthetic chemicals. For more information see your turf input supplier Enter your wincode at: or log on to www.uap.ca for full label information. ENTER TO WIN A GB1010 FREE SKID OF SOD JustSodIt.com West: 1 -800-561 -5444 Ontario & Maritimes: 1 -800-265-5444 Quebec: 1-800-361-9369 BC:1-604-534-8815 HAMILTON SOD COMPACT SOD The Greenhorizons (905) 389-1315 (519) 653-7494 MOUNT HOPE Group of Farms Ltd. ■CAMBRIDGE ® Rhapsody is a registered trademark of AgraQuest, Inc. 10009 01.10 Braemar Building Systems CUSTOM DESIGN QUALITY BUILDINGS COMPETITIVE PRICES • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • New Buildings • Wood & Steel Structures For your FREE ESTIMATES call usât 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com Member profile Justin Parsons by Lucky Wilbury acoustic guitar, harmonica, lead & backing vocals arsons’ career in the golf industry began in the spring P of 2000 at Markland Wood Country Club in Etobicoke. After surviving the very rational and realistic Y2K threat, he decided to apply at the golf club for summer employment. Even though numerous professors at Ryerson University encouraged him to pursue a position that may actually advance his career in his chosen field of study, journalism, he still opted for work in a completely unrelated field. The club hired him on the spot and, for some inexplicable reason, assigned him the role of beverage cart operator for the season. Despite numerous pleas to be removed from a position which requires long hair, a curvaceous figure and overall feminine sex appeal, the club would not relent. It was during contract negotiations the following year when Parsons finally took a stand. His blatant refusal to conform to the sleeker more revealing wardrobe changes landed him on the outs with upper management. Fortunately, when talks broke down Parsons was able to find gainful employment with the golf courses maintenance department. It was here that he was ultimately accepted for the modest, since. Several attempts to grow his side business of horse shy, loose-fitting pant-wearer that he is. It was not long whispering have been thwarted by severe allergies to barn before a keen interest in turf operations developed. The animals and an overall lack of knowledge in the field. management team nurtured this interest and encouraged In his spare time Parsons likes to log on to the internet him to apply at Seneca College for the GCT program. and he enjoys eating meals at regularly spaced intervals. After interning at Trafalgar Golf and Country Club He one day hopes to discover a healthier alternative to during the summer of 2005, he was hired on as the assistant both butter and margarine and secretly longs to meet superintendent the following year. Not much has changed Linda Carter circa 1985. "In the Hot Seat" • Favourite major: The Masters • Favourite non-major: Waste Management Phoenix Open • Favourite piece of turf equipment: Our Barn Cat • Favourite golf course: Pebble Beach Golf Links • Ultimate foursome: Just me and Linda Carter circa 1985 • Lowest round ever and where: 79 at Trafalgar Golf and Country Club • Favourite movie: Raiders of the Lost Ark • Favourite meal: Too hard to narrow it down, so, let me just say cauliflower is pointless • What’s in your CD right now: Blood on the Tracks, Bob Dylan • What would you be if not a golf course superintendent: Involved in finance in some way SUPERINTENDENTS' RECOGNITION PROGRAM 2010 The Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Board of Directors, in Spring of 2003 instituted a recognition program for superintendents, who host provincially significant tournaments at their respective courses. Historically, our profession has been overlooked for the hard work and dedication in preparing for and managing successful tournaments. This year is our seventh year in the pro­ James White and Scott White Jim Burlington and Brent Hamilton gram, which has been very well received by both competitors and the Golf Association of Ontario. It is imperative we continue with this program, which helps to promote the profession of the golf course superintendent and their professionalism within the golf industry. We thank the host superintendents as well as the presenters. If any member has any input they would like to contribute toward the continued success of this program please speak Jay Sisko and Stu Leachman Chad Adamson and Doug Breen to any OGSA director. Doug Breen and Jim Moore Chris Andrejicka and Dave Cours Bill Fach and Scott Fraser Tournament Host Supt. Golf Course Presenter Ontario Men's Mid-Amateur Championship Scott White Donalda Club James White Ontario Jr. & Juvenile Girls' Championship Brent Hamilton Rivendell Golf Club Jim Burlington Ontario Men's Amateur Championship Jay Sisko Idylwylde Golf & CC Stu Leachman Ontario Women's Amateur Championship Jay Honeyball* OslerBrook Golf & CC Chad Vibert Ontario Jr. & Juvenile Boys' Championship Chad Adamson Listowel Golf & CC Doug Breen Bantam Boys' & Girls' Championship Jim Moore Puslinch Lake Golf & CC Doug Breen Senior Women's Amateur Championship Dean Baker* Club at North Halton Mark Prieur Senior Men's Amateur Championship Dave Cours Ambassador Golf Club Chris Andrejicka Ontario Women's Mid-Amateur Championship Scott Fraser Loyalist Country Club Bill Fach *Photos ofDean Baker and Jay Honeyball not available. OGSA SUMMER SCRAMBLE By all reviews, a great time was had at Springfield’s 18 hole semi private, beautiful Florida style golf course located just south of Guelph. This past August, 71 golfers gathered to participate in a 4 person scramble, followed by a steak dinner in the club house. With such a successful event, we are looking forward to making this an annual tournament. In addition to the bountiful prize table, $180.00 was raised during a raffle to help support the OGSA Member’s Benevolent fund. This event afforded OGSA the opportunity to invite industry guests, thank Regional Association Presidents and Green is Beautiful volunteers. Thank you to Ray Dlugokecki, his staff and all the staff at Springfield for supporting this event and helping to make it the success it was. Looking forward to seeing you all next year! Photo by Dorothy Hills Some of the prize winners were: Jamie Filight A 1stWestminster Spencer, Place Team Trails Matt Flight placeLake B 1st Pres., Dodson, Simcoe 3 man GSA team Mark Durand, Ontario Seed Gary Morris, Pres., EOGSA Mark Trudell, Maple Ridge Golf Club John Taylor, Pres., WOGSA Scott Gardner, Echo Valley Golf Club Proximity prizes went to: Flight A Longest Drive - Doug Davidson, Glencairn GC Flight A Closest to the Pin - Mark Durand, Ontario Seed Flight B Longest Drive - Dr. Katerina Jordan, UofG Ray Duke accepts the Host Superintendent plaque from Flight B Closest to the Pin - John McLinden, Ladies GC of Toronto OGSA directorJohn McLinden Rain Bird Integrated Control System Simple and Reliable Below-ground Irrigation Control Milton 1 800-263-41 12, King City 1 866-703-5464, Scarborough 1 416-289-3635 www.vandenbussche.com email: info@vandenbussche.com ASSISTANTS' TOURNAMENT This year’s edition of the Bob Martin and Ron Lampman’s Assistants Tournament was played Golf Unleashed Show. The THANK YOU SPONSORS ! at the beautiful BreaBen Golf Club demonstration took place on in Mississauga. The weather held the driving range. Below, Ron PLATINUM SPONSOR out and everyone in attendance Lampman demonstrates some of his had a great time, both on and trick shots. One shot was hit from AGRIUM ADVANCED off the course. Our thanks goes a pipe held by a brave participant. TECHNOLOGIES out to all of the service staff at The other probably outshot any BreaBen for a great experience drive on the course that day, with a GOLD SPONSORS and special recognition to flexible pipe driver. The shots were TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA Superintendent, Dan Magrin and incredible and executed with ease. Assistant Superintendent, Blake This event would not have been Silver Sponsors G.C. DUKE EQUIPMENT LTD. Sicard for the wonderful playing possible if it had not been for our BAYER ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE conditions enjoyed by everyone wonderful sponsors. NUTRITE and ONTARIO SEED CO. that participated. As well as our key sponsors, the ALLTURF LTD. and ENVIRO-SOL In addition to a great day of golf OGSA would like to thank all of the the participants were treated to wonderful companies that donated prizes to make our tournament a success. We are pleased to announce from the proceeds we were able to donate $1200 to the Ontario Turf Research Foundation to further turf research in the golf industry. Everyone went home a winner from the Assistants tournament, but special congratulations go to Greg Brown, Assistant Superintendent at Essex Golf & Country Club, who won the all inclusive trip to Farmlinks, donated by Agrium Advanced Technologies and presented by Agrium representative, Craig McCutcheon. ALEX McCLUMPHA MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Despite a few showers and cool winds, everyone had a wonderful time at the beautiful Black Bear Ridge Golf Clubjust outside of Belleville. In addition to the usual competition Bill Fach organized a Par 3 tournament prior to the noon shotgun, with prizes and $250.00 from the proceeds being donated to the Ontario Turf Research Foundation to be used to further turf research in the golf industry. Bill Fach is presented with the Host Superintendent plaque by OGSA ...continued on page 16 Director, Phil Scully. ...continued from page 15 Some of the prize winners were: Low Gross and Low Flight winners: Low Gross Flight A - Bill Gilkes, Scarboro GC Low Gross Flight B - Darryl Lewis, Oshawa G&CC Low Net Flight A - Robert Wright, Devil's Pulpit Low Net Flight B - Dennis Kim, Scarboro GC Proximity prizes went to: Flight A Longest Drive - Martin Kopp, Brampton GC Flight A Closest to the Pin - Jason Cooper, Angus Glen GC Closest to the Pin Any Player - Mike Brabender, guest Flight B Longest Drive - Kyle Heyburn, Lakeridge Links Ron Craig with David Stevens, who was the recipient of the Flight B Closest to the Pin - Greg O'Heron, Peterborough G&CC George Darou Trophy and winner of a Toro snowblower. David Stevens, Superintendent at Beaverbrook Golf from the past 5 years are not eligible. The prize, Course in Minden, Ontario won’t need to worry about donated by Turf Care Products was a 210-R Toro Power the snow this year. David was the recipient of the George Clear Snowblower. Ron Craig, President of Turf Care Darou Trophy which goes to the OGSA superintendent was on hand to share in the year-end celebration and over 50 years old with the best low gross score. Winners present David with the prize. Congratulations David! As the sun sets over Black Bear Ridge, so ends another season of OGSA Golf Tournaments. We had a great time this year and we hope you will join us for another exciting season in 2011. Event venues and dates will be announced in Clippings. Golf course highlight BraeBen Golf Course 5700 Terry Fox Way Mississauga ON L5B 1T2 Phone: (905) 615-4653 Email: dan.magrin@mississauga.ca Website: www.braeben.ca Golf Course Superintendent: Dan Magrin Photo by Peter Sellars, Courtesy of BraeBen Golf Course COURSE PROFILE What county is your club located in? Who was the original architect? 2 truckster mount topdressers Peel Region Ted Baker (1 drop/1 spinner) 1 fairway topdresser (drop) Is your club private, semi private, public, resort or What was the year of original construction? 1 truckster mount core harvester municipal? 1999 1 PTO Blower Municipal 1 tow behind turbine blower What major tournaments have been held? Misc. line trimmers, lawn boys, blowers, Typical number of rounds Qualifier for the Jane Rogers spreaders, implements etc. 18 holes: 27,500 rounds Championship (Canadian Tour) 9 holes: 10,000 rounds COURSE PROJECTS & PLANS What is the size of your maintenance shop? Typical opening and closing dates? 12,800 square feet with What projects have you recently completed? Mid-April open 8,000 square feet heated Reconstructed 12th green in fall of 2008 with mid-November closing in response to failed drainage resulting What type of irrigation system? from settlement. How long have you been a superintendent? Rainbird Due to thin cap (cover over landfill), 5 years What is the size of greens, tees & fairways? we were experiencing gas pressure and How long have you been an OGSA member? 5 acres of greens poor turf conditions around 2 bunkers 12 years 7 acres of tees on our 9th hole. To correct this problem, 28 acres of fairways we added 2-3 feet of clay and rebuilt How many staff? bunkers in fall, 2009. 5 year round, 20 seasonal staff What is your predominant grass? Practice bunkers expanded and fairway Bentgrass added to range practice green in spring, How many assistants and mechanics? 2010. Assistant: Mark Holloway Type of greens? Mechanic: Brad Kurtz 17 Modified USGA LONG RANGE PLANS 13 Modified California How many gardening staff? What long range plans for renovation do you 1 What is the predominant soil type? have in the next five years? Heavy topsoil/clay Leveling tees that have been impacted COURSE STATISTICS by settlement. What equipment do you have in inventory? Removal of non-essential bunkers on How many holes? 2 triplex greens mowers par 3 course. 18 regulation and 9 hole par 3 6 triplex tee mowers 2 5-plex fairway mowers CHALLENGES What is the yardage from back and forward tees? 2 sidewinders 18 hole: 6,400 yards from the back tees 2 zero turn rough mowers (96”) Are there any particular challenges you face with and 4,860 yards from the front tees 1 all terrain (slope) mower your property? 9 hole: 1,371 from the back tees and 891 1 out front rotary mower Maintaining consistency with a combina­ yards from the front tees 1 tractor tion of modified California style greens 1 loader/backhoe and modified USGA style greens. What is the size of driving range and range tee? Poor soil conditions. 4 trucksters Range is 280 yards long with a total area Settlement. 10 utility vehicles of 8 acres (includes 1 acre of tees, 1.5 2 golf carts acres of fairway and 1 practice green) 1 300 gallon dedicated sprayer SUCCESS STORIES 3 walking greens mowers How many bunkers? Do you have any success stories? 1 48” walking aerifier 94 Transforming former landfill into full 1 24” walking aerifier service golf facility that hosts 37,000 + How many times does water come into play? 1 sweeper vac rounds (both courses) as well as several 1 pond on 1 hole 1 greens roller weddings/banquets annually. 2 bunker rakes Common & Uncommon Grasses Take Root in the Turfgrass Species Display Garden by Peter Purvis, Station Manager and Rob Witherspoon, Director Guelph Turfgrass Institute, University of Guelph Over a beer at “Shakies” (the Shakespeare Arms, a local turf student and staff watering hole), Rob Witherspoon confided in me an idea of his that had been brewing for a long time: “What if there was a site at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute that would include representative plantings of many cool and warm season turf grasses that we could use for teaching and research - and what about a putting green with different grasses that people could practice on?” And so the Turfgrass Species Display Garden was born. We know that Kentucky bluegrass, creeping bentgrass, perennial ryegrass and the fine fescues are the four main species of grasses used in Ontario. Unfortunately, there has been limited investigation into the suitability of alternative turfgrass species for use in golf courses, sports Planting the putting green. Note the temporary plastic edging used to fields, sod production, parks, roadsides, landscape sites separate the grass species. or other turf areas. Fortunately, new turfgrass cultivars are constantly being developed and tested, but often an is to establish a long-term research and teaching site that existing species may be all that a superintendent or turf includes side-by-side representative plantings of a wide manager requires for a specific application. Are there range of cool and warm season turf grasses. The garden existing turfgrass species that can withstand drought or wet will provide several benefits, including: conditions, harsh winters, low fertility, disease pressures • A site where golf course superintendents, sports and many other extreme conditions yet retain good quality field, park and turfgrass managers have access to and recuperative potential? The answer to this question a comparison of a wide range of cool and warm is critical given the challenges of climate change, watering season turf grasses, both in their natural and and nutrient restrictions and pesticide bans. maintained forms; The objective of the Turfgrass Species Display Garden • An educational resource for faculty, extension specialists, students, industry professionals and the general public; • A source of mature and established plant material for greenhouse and student research projects; • A means of informal annual evaluation of the short and long term performance of various common and uncommon turfgrass species grown under southern Ontario conditions. Construction of the Turfgrass Species Display Garden began in August, 2009 with much of the work being done by student interns from the University of Guelph Turfgrass Management program. The area was first sprayed with glyphosate, then the sod was stripped off and garden areas rototilled. Twenty species of cool season grasses (Table 1) were planted in September. Grasses were planted in Preparation of the Turfgrass Species Display Garden 1-metre wide, side-by-side rows with a divider in-between Table 1. Cool season grass species planted in the Turfgrass Species Display Garden. Fairway Wheatgrass Agropyron cristatum Crested Wheatgrass Agropyrum desertorum Redtop Agrostis gigantea Creeping Bentgrass Agrostis stolonifera Smooth Bromegrass Bromus inermis Orchardgrass Dactylis glomerata Sheep Fescue Festuca ovina Turfgrass species several weeks after planting. Red Fescue Festuca rubra Chewings Fescue Festuca rubra var. commutata each row to reduce spreading of the grasses. Two-thirds of each species was mowed and the remainder left Hard Fescue Festuca trachyphylla un-mown so the grasses could be viewed in their cultivated Tall Fescue Lolium arundinaceum and natural forms. A series of paths and benches were Perennial Ryegrass Lolium perenne constructed throughout the garden for easy access to the Annual Ryegrass Lolium perenne ssp. multiflorum grasses and all species were well labeled. A push-up putting green was also planted in five separate Western Wheatgrass Pascopyrum smithii sections, each containing a different species of fine-type Timothy Phleum pratense turf (Table 2). Putters and golf balls are left on site so Canada Bluegrass Poa compressa that visitors can practice putt as they evaluate the different Kentucky Bluegrass Poa pratensis grass putting surfaces. A selection of warm season grasses was planted in June, 2010 (Table 3). It will be interesting Texas Bluegrass Hybrids Poa pratensis x Poa arachnifera to see how these warm season grasses handle our southern Rough Bluegrass Poa trivialis Ontario winter. The official dedication of the Garden Weeping Alkal¡grass Puccinellia distans took place at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute’s Research Field Day in August, 2010. Please come and view the new Garden and see if you can incorporate any of these Table 2. grasses into your golf course or turf areas. You are always Grass species planted in the welcome. Turfgrass Species Display Garden putting green. We thank the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation, Annual Bluegrass Poa annua Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation, the Georgian Colonial Bentgrass Agrostis capillaris Bay Golf Superintendent’s Association and Pickseed for generously supporting this project. Creeping Bentgrass Agrostis stolonifera Fine Fescue Mix Festuca trachyphylla; Festuca ovina; Festuca rubra; and Festuca rubra var. commutata Velvet Bentgrass Agrostis canina Table 3. Warm season grass species planted in the Turfgrass Species Display Garden. Sideoats Grama Bouteloua curtipendula Blue Grama Bouteloua gracilis Buffalograss Buchloe dactyloides Bermudagrass Cynodon Dactylon The completed garden at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Zoysia Grass Zoysiajaponica Second tn one by Alan Dolick, Assistant Superintendent Dundas Valley Golf & Curling Club Fostering Mutual Respect in the Workplace Today I fired my first employee. To be honest, I Respect can come in many forms and is recognized think I may have taken it harder than he did. As I drove, differently by everyone. As the assistant superintendent, I thought about how this person has to go home and tell you are leading many different types of people: summer their significant other, and potentially his children, that he students, adults and retirees. Somehow, you have to find no longer has a means of supporting them. All too often a way to identify with all of these different types of people. in this world, we as humans only worry about our own little I think the most important thing to remember when bubbles. Many of us never stop to think about how our fostering mutual respect is to remember that when the actions or words affect those around us. Sure we may reflect work day is done, no matter how old we are or what our about events or conversations we have had with those close background, we are all people. We all have thoughts to us, but rarely do we stop and think about those on the and feelings, and the need to feel appreciated. Merely periphery of our lives. asking ones opinion or taking a suggestion will help make Up to this point in my career, much has been on the someone feel needed, and when you feel needed you tend labour end, rather than the management side of the to put in that extra effort. business. I have had good bosses, and some not so great. If you treat your staff more like people and less like staff, As I have moved up through the ranks, I have watched they are more likely to treat you less like their boss and those above me very carefully in hopes of picking up on more like their leader. A leader is someone that people not only their great character traits, but trying to avoid the look up to; a boss gives out orders that breed resentment. not so desirable ones. So next time you get the chance, ask someone how their This being my first full season as a true supervisor I weekend went, how their kids are doing, or what they wanted to make sure that I fostered mutual respect with my think about the new greens routes. If you open up a little staff. Somewhere I heard the question “As a boss, would about yourself you will be amazed with the change in your you rather be loved or feared?” the answer being “neither, relationship with your staff. After all, it is our staff that I want to be respected”. But how do you get to the point we count on every day to make the course the best it can that people respect you? The only way to get respect is to be. Without them all of our experience, knowledge and give some back. It is this mutual respect that is a trait I have expertise would be worthless. found in all of the exceptional leaders I have worked with in my life. SENIORS MOMENT 2010 4th Annual Seniors Tournament held at Mono Hills GC Above the hole by Sean May Student and Intern The leaves are changing and are beginning to fall and there is no looking back as we are going in-depth into and the season is beginning to come to an end. Many diseases, insects, turf management II and presenting our courses are starting to prepare for the winter season with internship experiences. There are about 25-30 new turf many cultural practices being focused on programs such as students entering the program this year and all seem to be aeration. September came by very fast and it was time for energetic about the program. me to pack up my belongings and say my goodbyes. The Many events are taking place throughout the semester internship experience I had at Bigwin was one that was including turf club every Thursday, weekly ice hockey and right for me and a life changing experience. I would like soon we will be sodding the cannon. On September 24th to say thank you to all who were involved. we hosted our annual golf tournament at Wildwinds Golf Fortunately for myself I have been able to continue Links in Guelph. This included over 50 participants and working this fall at Credit Valley Golf Club. This has was a tremendous success. Thank you to all who attended allowed me to work part-time while being at school and and to our sponsors for their generous donations. continue learning. I have taken part in some special One event coming up for the program is the first-year projects including tee deck work and bunker repairs. At students will be putting on a symposium and networking the end of September I had the opportunity to take part event on Friday, November 26th, 2010. Please feel free in the GBGSA closing event at Cobble Beach Golf Links to contact Tim O’Connor at tim@oconnorgolf.ca or in Owen Sound where I was presented with the Jay Lavis (519) 341-4778 for more information. Memorial Scholarship. I’m looking forward to taking part in some conferences Although sometimes I would much rather be out and shows this coming winter as well as closing up the working, I have made the commitment to school and I course at Credit Valley Golf Club. All the best and good know this year will fly by. The semester has started now luck to everyone preparing for the winter season. Toro’s DTSeries Sprinklers The Toro DT Series Sprinkler brings together over 40 years of golf irrigation knowledge with the most The most advanced, most durable recent advances in technology and and most flexible golf sprinkler water management. From top to bottom, the DT Series Sprinkler is built for today’s golf courses. the best choice among standard golf sprinklers. For more information Contact your Turf Care sales representative. Turf Care Products Canada 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET, ON L3Y 7B6 PHONE (905) 836-0988 • FAX (905) 836-6442 1-800-561-8873 London Ph: (519) 668-7664 • Fax:(519)668-3722 Milton Ph: 905-836-0988x7048 • Fax:(905)636-1513 Gloucester Ph: 905-836-0988x5501 • Fax:(613)822-2099 One great result. TURFCARE Helping your business grow. visit www.turfcare.ca SUPER-SMART PHONES By Scott J. Morrison Environmental Consultant with Out on a Limb www.ooal.ca • scott@ooal.ca It wasn’t long ago when Blackberries and Apples were fruits, and the only Android’s around were R2D2 and C-3PO on your bed sheets. Times have changed, technology is allowing us to do previously unimaginable things. Superintendents must be effective communicators, time managers, and be in five places at the same time. Smartphone’s can help with that, however with so many devices on the market it’s hard to know what long-term advantages any one product may continue to have over their competition. Users must know what functionality is needed to fulfill their needs. The users preference of keyboard vs. touch-screen, and how “Apps” (applications) will be used will help determine the best-suited device. for Solar Panel installers, this App uses the iPhones Most touch screens are surprisingly durable, made of camera, GPS and Azimuth tool to illustrate (in flat glass with a protective coating or to help defend against grit mode and augmented reality camera mode) the while working in the field. Keyboards and trackballs can solar path and its obstructions from where you stand increase productivity for some, however if they get up-close and creates yearly charts. Pretty cool. and personal with bunker sand they can become useless • iStimp, the $0.99 digital Stimpmeter, provides and you’re confined to your desktop and landlines. Apps accurate green speed readings by using the iPhones can use any combination of GPS, accelerometer, compass, accelerometer and complex algorithms. touch screen, internet access and cellular capability. Keep in mind these features or Apps will likely be imitated and • iGIS, the Geographic Information System in the palm improved upon by each major competitor, App-developer, of your hand, allows supers to layer customized or by jail-breaking” your device to by-pass restrictions set info onto aerial images from Google Maps. Custom by carriers and manufacturers. colors, shapes, importing/exporting, and even measuring tools make the $22 cost well worth it for Lets take a look at the major smartphone and tablet your iPhone or iPad. Keep in mind, although this producers and see what advantages and disadvantages App is only available with Apple, much of this can these products have for supers. be done within the regular online Google My Maps. • PinPoint receives data from the National Lightning Apple - iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad Detection Network and Environment Canada for While many criticize Apple’s products for their limited all cloud-to-ground lightning strikes within 30 Miles keyboard options, ijunkies reply “just turn it in to (48 Km) of the user’s geo-located position and layers landscape mode”. Other points of criticism include lack it on an aerial image from Google Maps. Not bad for of customizable themes, basic camera and Apps are only $5.99, available on iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. available through iTunes. Despite what hang-ups you have over Apple’s products, you can’t argue against their • Toro NSN enables Supers to login to their desktop durability and light weight making them not get in the way, and access and control the whole irrigation system. and sometimes that’s the best feature of all. Apple has done • For $4.99 Golf Ball Finder may help golfers get out a great job promoting its App’s as they do have the largest of those natural areas and back on the course, or it collection of all the smart-phones - for now. Some of the may cause a line up of golfers staring at their phones “not yet Android” Apps for supers include: instead of hurrying up. • Right now, go to iTunes, download Sun Seeker • The $1.99 Fertilizer Calculator helps users calculate for $2.99 and go to your shadiest green with your Ibs/kg of N, P, and K from a bag, the area it will cover, grumpiest Greens Committee member. Developed records dates and notes of the application. RIM - BlackBerry (BB) (i.e. flat-screen with slide-out keyboard), and new concepts You know you’re a BB’er when you can open the back, altogether like dashboard computers in cars. Imagine what take out the battery, reinstall, close it back up and press a stock Android OS could do for a mower or sprayer; fuel ON with one hand. Ignoring the “PC-like” need to reboot conservation and the IPM reporting process would be often, BB’ers are quick to point out the ease of emailing, made effortless. great Camera options, no need to look while typing as you Apple has trademarked “There’s an App for that!”, but can actually feel the buttons and the newer touch-screen Android is expected to surpass with number of Apps due models have glass that vibrates and makes a “click” sound to Googles “open source” policy. Basically, App-developers to give a sensation of typing on a real keyboard. are able to create Apps, and sell as they please, with no BB is quickly loosing its share of the U.S. Smartphone approval process like Apple and BB. Critics say this will market - down to 37% from last quarter’s 42%. Reasons? result in buggy Apps, while users believe this will result in Poor standard web browser, App options are low and tools to help destroy the competition. Currently, some of Android is grabbing market share while iPhone has generally the best Apps for supers on Androids include: stayed the same. RIM is attempting to regain market loss by • My Maps Editor for Google Maps is a great free App providing a wider selection of products like their PlayBook that I’ve seen a few supers use on their desktops tablet in 2011, and hopes to change their “business only” throughout the years but with very little hype and reputation and snap up some of Apple’s users. coverage in the industry. This App allows you to place BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) is a free chat/text program “pins”, draw shapes, measure distance and area on that allows users to chat with other BB users with no charge an aerial image of your course. Is their a better way (technically you need a data package, so there is a charge). to communicate scouting info or plan a construction This was a strong point for the brand, but due to savvy App- or renovation project then a photograph/diagram developers, free text programs can be found for pretty tagged to a geo-location? much every device now (Apple and Android devices can • Weather Reality is unlike any other weather App. For use “Whatsapp” for “free” messaging). Here are a few Apps $1.99 you can point your phone at the sky and see I feel supers using BB’s would enjoy: local weather reports in the form of radar clouds. • Turfgrass Management, free download with an • Landscape and Garden Calculator provides annual subscription of $19.99 per year (also available calculators and tables for Plantings, Lawn Fertilizer, on iPhones, iPod Touch and iPad) contains pics, info Lawn Seed, Aggregate, Pavers, Weight Conversion, and recommendations for managing turf weeds, Fraction to Decimal, Decimal to Fraction, Fraction diseases, insects and an American pesticide database. Calculator and Frost Tables. Includes more complex Developed by the good folks at U of Georgia. parameters for predicting materials needed - $4.99 • Evernote is available on BB’s, Apple Products and the • WeatherBug Elite gives you a widget and live, local Android OS for free, with some premium upgrades. weather. There is also radar animation to follow Capture images, voice notes, emails, typed notes weather developments and additional map layers for and organize them to help you be more productive. highly detailed information. For $1.99, WeatherBug Perfect for Supers doing five things at once. also comes with a widget to place on your Android • Log-Me-In allows users to use any mobile device to home screen for quick and interactive access. log in to their desktop computers remotely. This is • The free Google Goggles is a simple idea - point your essentially the App that Toro’s NSN iPhone App uses. device at something, take a pic and Google will find • Bolt helps make the standard BB Browser faster, all sorts of background info on your subject. In time, allowing for quicker response times through the this App will be able to identify insects and find and web. This is perfect if you use RainBirds MI website order replacement parts, but for now your limited to to access and control your irrigation system. translating text, immediately indexing business card photos to your contact list and identifying major Android OS - Motorola, HTC, Samsung, LG tourist attractions. Not limited by design features meant to preserve brand ScottJ Morrison is an Environmental Consultant with identity, Android is an Operating System (OS) adopted Out on a Limb (www.ooal.ca), Editor of Turfhugger.com by major smartphone manufacturers. Created by Google, and the first Certified Sustainability Advisorfor the the Android OS can be found in phones and tablets that Golf Environment Organisation in Canada. resemble iconic BB’s and Apple designs, mash-up designs University of Guelph update What a Summer for Diagnostics eWll. it’s have been finished with summer and temperatures in April and May did that time of year on to fall. The heat and humidity not allow the damaged turf much by Dr. Katerina Jordan, again when we were relentless and continued on chance to recover. Assistant Professor try to summarize into August and even stayed with us The spring season brought the Department ofPlant the disease and until early September. What all of this usual suspects, including yellow Agriculture, U of G disorder activity created was a prolonged period where patch (Rhizoctonia cerealis), Pythium kjordan@uoguelph.ca from this past conditions were ideal for disease root dysfunction, a relatively high season. I have development and for Poa annua to number of Microdochium patch a feeling that most of you are very be stressed beyond belief. Below samples (aka Fusarium patch caused happy to have this growing season is a summary of what we saw come by Microdochium nivale) as well as a behind you and based on the activity through the lab during this very long high number of Waitea patch samples in the GTI Turfgrass Diagnostic Lab, season: (Waitea circinata var. circinatd). Dollar I can’t say that I blame you. This was As I mentioned above, we first spot (Sclerotiniahomoeocarpd) also came by far the most brutal summer that I noted that there was a great deal of on strong and persisted with rather have experienced since I moved to winter injury this season. This is high disease pressure throughout the Ontario (five years now) and from not completely surprising - we had season. As temperatures increased what I could tell, it was one of the a below-average amount of snowfall going into summer, most of these more difficult seasons for a number and a number of freeze-thaw events diseases faded away but one shoulder of you as well. and these always lead to a good bit of season disease that stuck with us The season started out somewhat injury come spring. Unfortunately, through the summer was take-all similar to last year in that there was a this also meant that many of you patch (Gaeumannomyces graminis var. good bit of winter injury on a number had weak annual bluegrass heading avenae). of golf courses (Fig.l). It did not into the growing season and rather For those who had primarily seem to matter if greens were covered than having some reprieve with a creeping bentgrass, it was a big year or not, it was almost random as to nice, cool spring, the rapidly rising for take-all patch here in Ontario. who saw dead turf and who came out clean. Then, also similar to last year, April started out with abnormally high temperatures which caught many of you, who did not have your irrigation systems ready, by surprise. Then, things calmed down a bit and it seemed as though we would have a normal spring. But even though May was relatively cool overall, the beginning of the month and particularly the last week had days in the GTA where temperatures rose above 30°C. In June, we had a bit of a cool down period and everyone started to breathe a sigh of relief; then the real summer started. Toward the end of the month, we were experiencing August-like temperatures and by mid­ July it seemed as though we should We saw the usual number of samples Toward the end of June we had an (Rhizoctonia solani), black layer, algae, with this disease in the spring but with extreme warm spell followed by some fairy ring, anthracnose (both foliar the stressful conditions that ensued heavy and extended rainfall. I recall and basal rot caused by Colletotnchum through June and July, we saw a high turning to my two assistants in the cereale), leaf spot and melting out number of take-all patch cases in the lab and saying “next week is summer (Bipolaris or Drechslerd) and even some summertime. Symptoms were difficult patch week.” Sure enough, within a Pythium blight. to diagnose at first as they were subtle couple of days, the summer patch All in all, for Ontario, this was the and not at all patch-like (Fig. 2). (Magnaporthe poae) samples started season for diseases. Temperatures However, as the summer wore on, coming in (Fig. 3). We no doubt were higher than average and host symptoms became more pronounced had a record number of samples plants were stressed beyond normal. and some superintendents lost turf. that were diagnosed with summer This was primarily due to the extended patch and this was no surprise as the heat increasing stress on the turf and conditions for this disease were ideal. leading to development of symptoms Annual bluegrass was starting to die from root diseases in general. In out - quickly in some cases - and even more moderate seasons, creeping superintendents who had taken the bentgrass plants are able to withstand appropriate preventative measures a certain amount of infection from G. ended up with lost turf. In most cases, graminis without showing too many we were able to confirm the presence Ontario Professional Turf Sales team symptoms. However, this year the of runner hyphae (one of the stress was prolonged and we saw patch diagnostic signs for this disease) but symptoms on even what appeared to in a number of samples, there were South Western- Brian Bennett be the healthiest of greens. For the no diagnostic signs at all. For these (519)421-6593 summer occurrences of this disease, cases, the diagnosis was Poa summer Niagara/Central- Craig McCutcheon no fungicides were recommended as decline (Fig. 4) often compounded (905) 536-0357 the symptoms are typically the result by additional abiotic stress such as GTA- Bill Martel of infections that occurred earlier in excess thatch, compaction, drought (416) 508-6115 the season. The best management stress, etc. In some cases where methods included increasing heights abiotic disorders did not fit, we Eastern Ontario- Perry Brazeau (289) 338-1834 of cut, reducing thatch and soil performed nematode extractions compaction (during spells of cooler and saw large populations of plant- Northern- Kevin Jensen weather), using acidifying fertilizers parasitic nematodes present in the (705) 627-3590 and also the addition of manganese soils. We also saw a few other diseases www.turfpro.ca to reduce symptoms. and disorders including brown patch ...continued from page 25 8112 KING RD. WEST BOLTON, ONTARIO L7E 5T3 1-800-268-4425 1-905-857-2000 WWW.MAPLETURFSUPPLY.COM • Cost Effective Custom Blends • Water Soluble, Granular, Liquid & Organic Fertilizers • Bulk Spreader Service • Full Line of Turf Chemicals For Further Information Call: In addition, there was usually just strength of your turf, your rootzone Simon George enough rainfall to keep the soil moist and the surrounding environment Technical Sales and keep the fungi thriving but not may often mean more in preventing Central Ontario, GTA & Niagara Region enough to keep the turfgrass happy (or exacerbating) disease than your 1-519-841-3378 for an extended period of time. practices. What this season certainly showed With respect to our diagnostic Mark Schneider us was that nobody is immune to lab, we were quite overwhelmed Technical Sales losing some turf as I saw some of on our end as well having received Georgian Bay, Lake Simcoe & Muskoka Region the most experienced and respected more samples than we have ever 1-519-372-5181 turf managers run into problems. dealt with before. We are working Especially with summer patch, I think to streamline our operation to better Rae Murray that many managers felt they had it meet the needs of our customers and Technical Sales under control because the disease to ensure that we don’t end up with North East GTA & Eastern Ontario had barely appeared over the past a report backlog in the future. For 1-416-819-3404 two seasons. next season, I sincerely hope you will However, 2008 and 2009 were not be in need of our services and relatively cool and therefore not that your turf stays green and healthy conducive to development of this throughout the year. However, disease. In addition, part of the issue should you come across issues you with annual bluegrass this season are unsure of or are having trouble was, summer extended far beyond dealing with, please feel free to call what our ecotypes are evolved to with questions or send us a sample. handle. With higher than average As always, you can reach me directly at temperatures beginning in May and 519-824-4120 x 56615 or e-mail extended heat and humidity all the kjordan@uoguelph.ca. You can also way through August, much of the try to reach me at the diagnostic lab Poa annua was out of reserves to at 519-824-4120 x 58873 or e-mail survive the extended summer by diagnostics@guelphturfgrass.ca. July. In the end, I think a number As always, good luck with your of people realized the importance of winter preparations this year and healthy turf going into the summer I hope that you get some rest this and also that you can do everything winter as you put the summer of 2010 right but in the end, the relative behind you. We sell & transplant large trees with tree spades ranging from 34-90" Members of I.S.A and O.G.S.A. Owner Paul Hanousek certified arborist. PREMIUM WATER MANAGEMENT TOOLS FOR YOUR GOLF COURSE TURF • 2 Formulations Available - Respond 3 Liquid and Respond 3 Granular • Protect your Greens, Tees, and Fairways from Localized Dry Spot, Drought Stress and Excessive Moisture • More Uniform Water Distribution Throughout Moving your trees since 1980. the Root Zone www.douglaswood.ca Distributed by: ALLTURF 1 800.353.3019 Master’s Turf Supply Ltd. T. 519.856.2771 F. 519.856.1447 Mountain View Turf Supply www.uap.ca P.O. Box 339 Rockwood ON Canada NOB 2KO Respond 3 is a registered trademark of United Agri Products. Always read and follow label directions. Premium Products for all Burnside Your Turf Needs Serving the Needs of the Golf Industry PO Box 7 Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z6 We can help with: Tele 519-886-0557 Fax 519-886-0605 • Approvals for Golf Course Development and Operations 1-800-465-5849 • Irrigation Water Supply www.oscturf.com • Sewage Treatment and Disposal • Environmental Management Plans • Building and Clubhouse Design Services • Irrigation Design and Consulting • Environmental Impact Assessment • Drinking Water Assessment • Project and Construction Management Toll Free: (877) 799-8499 E-mail: vcirone@rjburnside.com Website: www.rjburnside.com The secret to the perfect game is under your feet 877-727-2100 416-364-5700 Offices located throughout Ontario Members of OGSA, CGSA and Golfmax Suppliers to the NGCOA www.zandersod.com NOW IS THE TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT YOUR CHAINSAW'S MAINTENANCE by Darryl James CID, CGIA, ISA Certified Arborist, T Ag OSSWA accredited instructor, Arborturf Solutions www.arborturfsolutions.com • darryl@arborturfsolutions.com My business is one that wears many knowledge. The owner’s manual, hats. One of those hats is being an along with the internet, are two great accredited chainsaw instructor with resources to stay up-to-date. the Ontario Forestry Safe Workplace With that said, here are a couple of Association. important points from my perspective The purpose of this article is that you should know before you go to inform and update golf course for a refresher course or pick up that chainsaw operators on maintenance dusty owner’s manual. related issues which I’ve noticed The Chain: while training golf staff over the past • Ensure the correct file size three seasons. is being used. This is directly The safety of the chainsaw operator related to the pitch of the chain. is directly linked to the maintenance A properly sharpened chainsaw of the chainsaw. Therefore, an will cut you out of trouble and improperly maintained chainsaw reduce the chance of kickback. that does not meet the requirements depends on the operator and how under the Occupational Health and they operate the chainsaw. Safety Act can lead to fines and/ The Guide Bar: or criminal charges, along with the • The nose sprocket teeth: As increased chance of serious injury. they wear, they become more In the golf course industry, pointed and sharp. maintenance related issues are often • Discoloration: An indication caused by: there is not enough oil getting • The depth gauge is the leading 1. The chainsaw operator’s depen­ to the bar. edge of the cutter and regulates dence on the golf course me­ how deep the cutter will dig into • Uneven wear of the guard rails: chanic to maintain all compo­ the wood (Fig. 1). If the proper Indicates improper sharpening. nents of the chainsaw depth gauge tool is not used 2. Forgotten knowledge due to the and the cutter digs too deep, periodic use of the chainsaw the chance of kickback, the Although the golf course mechanic most serious type of chainsaw can be a great asset to help maintain accident, increases greatly. the engine on the chainsaw, they are • Last, the gauge is related to the not responsible for the maintenance width of the drive link(Fig. 2). of the chain, guide bar, or drive Make sure the gauge matches sprocket. That is the responsibility the bar being used and check for of the chainsaw operator! After wear on the bottom on the drive each use, the chainsaw operator link for a worn out guide bar. Summary: should have a systematic approach to maintain each component of the Drive Sprocket: Proper maintenance of the chainsaw. For the drive sprocket, it’s important chainsaw is the responsibility of Proper training, refresher courses to note the wear (Fig. 3). It is normally the operator. Good maintenance and effective resource materials recommended by most manufacturers increases productivity in the field, and associated with maintenance are to replace the drive sprocket following most importantly, ensures the safety ways to effectively deal with retaining wearing out 3-6 chains. This obviously of the operator and those around them. On the REEL side of things by: Warren Wybenga, Equipment Manager, Donalda Club, Toronto WWybenga@donaldaclub.ca (416) 447-5575 x263 Things I Have Yet To Do Before Freeze-up I sit, marvelling at the majesty that accompanies As other reason than there is no point in being cold while I’m the deepening hues of autumn, it occurs to me that as “time doing it right? The furnaces in the maintenance facility waits for no man”, several items remain on my seasonal “to- and chemical room should be serviced now before we find do” list. out they aren’t working and the sewage sump pump should Let’s see now...irrigation blow-out is coming soon and be due for a “cleaning” to prevent a float from sticking, while I don’t have to book the compressor, I am responsible causing a nasty backup. for refueling said beast and that means getting the old There are booking order opportunities on my desk and portable fuel trailer out of moth balls and finally fixing in my in-box just waiting for my attention. I have to be that slow leak in the one tire. I also picked up a 12V fuel sure to get them in by the deadline so I can take advantage pump that was on sale over the summer and it needs to be of the attractive pricing and terms. Our controller should installed and wired up so I don’t have to pump a thousand like that. liters, give or take, of diesel fuel by hand anymore. That The shop is still waiting for its spring cleaning. Honestly, will be nice. the best time for that is during the weeks leading up to I’ll also need the tractor to move the tank around which Christmas. Things seem to slow down considerably while if memory serves, is now overdue for service. No time like attitudes and moods remain positive, that and nobody the present, eh? really feels much like working at their normal duties then The late season applications of fertilizer will be going anyway, right? down shortly so I’d better get to checking the old tow- Our fuel tanks are due for replacing and if I want to behind spreader. Tire pressures and grease fittings, drive make sure the funds are available I had better get some dogs and metering gate all need to be checked. The last quotations for the job and look into any changes to the time I looked at it was a few days after somebody had left regulations. My friendly neighborhood TSSA Inspector some damp granules in the hopper. After an hour or so should be able to help with that. of scraping, chiseling and scrubbing and a good dose of When all is said and done, autumn is the time of year to lube it was good as new - well, almost new, considering the take a deep breath after a long golf season and to prepare circumstances. Now that I think of it, the pull rope used not only your equipment, but your facility and yourself for to open the hopper was looking a little ratty; might as well the winter months ahead. Make no mistake, the cold is change that too before it breaks because you just know coming and depending on where you hang your hat, may that it will break when the hopper is full and the gates are already be upon you. So take a look outside of your box open. And that one grease zerk on the inside of the hub, and get cracking on those things that either need to get it practically requires the alignment of the entire universe done before freeze-up or are simply more pleasant to do before it will accept any grease, that too. while it’s warm out. The brush pile in our yard is getting unruly and needs to get cleaned up before the snow flies, after all, we do need somewhere to pile the snow that’s headed our way. We purchased a second-hand grapple for our skid steer this summer but the hose routing isn’t quite right and as Darryl James Certified Golf Irrigation Designer a result, one hose keeps getting snagged. Time to call my Certified Golf Irrigation Auditor ISA Certified Arborist 0N-1152A “guy” at the hydraulic house and see if he’s come up with OIA Technical Agrologist T. Ag the odd-ball, swivel-type fittings that I need to make this phone: (416) 873-9648 thing work properly on our machine. Once I get that re­ 23 Hocken Ave. engineered, you can say good-bye to Brush Mountain. Toronto, Ontario, M6G 2K1 There are a couple of outdoor lights on the equipment arborturf@gmail.com www.arborturfsolutions.com “barn” that have burned out and require changing. I’d better get to that before the ground freezes and for no Off the fairway... Winter Gardens - Never Say Die by Brenda Noble Head Gardener, Donalda Club, Toronto. bnoble@donaldaclub .ca or (416) 447-5575 x273. When people ask me what I do for a living, the next question is, inevitably, “So, what do you do in the winter?”. I’m sure most, if not all of you, have experienced the same scenario. Although I have had to break through a thick frost layer on occasion to finish Christmas displays or get the last of the bulbs into the ground, I think we all spend a lot more time inside than out once winter sets in. But just because we gardeners tend to hibernate a little in the winter, it doesn’t mean our gardens have to. For those clubs who serve members all year round, I’d like you to consider enhancing the winter beauty of your property. Gone are the days when including a couple ofjunipers or a boxwood hedge in a landscape can sufficiently be called winter interest. Nor should we limit ourselves to the belief that a plant must be green or have brightly coloured flowers to be beautiful. There are so many plants available to us that offer a variety of different features, and there are many that shine when the temperature drops below freezing. Individual plants will and do die, perennial top growth turns brown and wilts, but a garden designed with all four seasons in mind will be vibrant all year long: alive with coloured branches and textured bark, alive with birds and wildlife feeding on seed heads and berries, alive with ornamental grasses glowing in the afternoon light, alive changed throughout the year and always had something with snowflakes resting on a sedum or black-eyed Susan. interesting to look at. Not only is it a high traffic area, it Nature has made its’ own winter gardens since the can also be viewed from inside the clubhouse from many beginning of time, and the concept of specifically designing vantage points. Gardens can always use tweaking, but I a garden for winter has been infiltrating the horticultural think I accomplished what I set out to do. From spring world for several years. I was fortunate to have the flowering bulbs to viburnums, spirea and ornamental opportunity to work at the Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in grasses to hydrangeas, blackberry lilies and dogwood, there the south of England shortly after the completion of their is always something going on. 3-acre Winter Garden. Even the Queen deemed it worthy Last year I took over the task of creating the winter of a visit. I have never seen, and probably never will again, urns at the clubhouse entrance. In fear of running out so much work get done on a property as in the four weeks of material I ordered too much and then had to figure prior to her coming to town. Working in this garden and out what to do with it all. So I pulled some pots out of seeing it come alive on a frosty morning when most people storage, filled them up, and put them out on the patio. are still warm in their beds really opened my eyes up to the The patio? In December? I don’t think you would have beauty of winter and to pay more attention to the details found any members enjoying these pots while eating their that are often overlooked. Although I’ve had to accept grilled chicken salad out in the snow, but the huge picture the reality of Canadian winters and the fact that many windows surrounding the dining room afforded them the of the wonderful plants grown in England simply won’t luxury of enjoying the display from the comfort of indoor accomplish the same purpose here, it shouldn’t stop any of heat. us from taking the concepts and applying them using plant I’m not suggesting we turn all our energy and attention material that will thrive in our climate. to the slowest time of year for our business, but I am A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to redesign suggesting that we make it a consideration. Pinpoint the the gardens in Donalda’s newly reconstructed patio. It was areas of your property and clubhouse that are prominent important to me from the beginning to create a garden that in the winter and think about what can be done to enhance them during the stereotypically ‘dull’ months of the year. like to see addressed. I’d also be interested in featuring Take a walk through your clubhouse - first ensuring your garden projects or ideas from different clubs so if anyone boots are clean so the maintenance department doesn’t would like to showcase their garden please get in touch. wring your neck - and observe where the windows are and see what the members see when they’re enjoying the Brenda has been the Head Gardener at Donalda Club in clubhouse in the winter. What do the gardens look like Toronto since the spring of2006. Prior to discovering the beyond those windows? And how can they be better? world ofgolf course horticulture, she completed her degree in My space is limited, but if you’re looking for more ideas horticulture at the University of Guelph. This was followed check out ‘ The Garden in Winter by Suzy Bales or ‘ The Winter by year long internships at both the Morris Arboretum in Garden by Val Bourne. Philadelphia and Sir Harold Hillier Gardens in the south of As this column is a new venture for me, I’d be very England. When not in the garden she enjoys spending time with interested to hear any topic suggestions or questions you’d family, exploring the outdoors and experimenting in the kitchen. LARGE TREE SALESAND RELOCATION Corrie Almack P.Ag. Phil Dickie - ISA Certified Arborist pdickie@fastforest.ca Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 Box 256, Carlisle, On Fax: (905) 689-8522 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca P: (519) 748-6610 • F: (519) 748-6626 • www.fastforest.ca David C. Smith, P.Ag., C.G.C.S. 185 Oriole Crescent Soil & Turfgross Consultant Gravenhorst, Ontario PIP 1C6 P.O. Box 277, 890 Fairground Road, Langton, On , NOE 1GO 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 dave@dcsturf.com email: mastersturf@hughes.net 2011 ONTARIO GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE & TRADE SHOW Windsor, ON | January 12-14,2011 This 3-day conference will draw together golf course management professionals for the industry's best education, networking and trade show opportunities • Education focused on today's most pressing topics • Dedicated trade show time offering the newest products, technologies and services • Daily networking opportunities • Key Note Speaker Gerry Dee - Named "Best Comic in Canada" • Easy access with free parking for delegates and exhibitors • Discover new paths to profitability for you and your facility JOIN US AT CAESARS WINDSOR FOR AN EXTRAORDINARY CONFERENCE EXPERIENCE www.golfsupers.on.ca Looking back Ten Years Ago Today by Barry Endicott The Board of Directors in 2000 were as follows: Charbonneau and Ken Carey led the hands-on workshop. Keith Bartlett (pres.), Thornhill, Ian Bowen (past pres.), The President/Greenschairman/Superintendent Event Oshawa, John Gravett (vice.), Granite Club, Jim Flett, was held at the Donalda Golf Club hosted by Paul Scenna. Muskoka Lakes, Mark Piccolo, Galt, Rob Ackermann, This year’s team champion, with a low score of 117, went Markland Wood, Dean Baker, Glen Abbey, Jeff Burgess, to John Taylor from Hunters Point Golf Club, second Weston, Robert Burrows (editor), Rosedale, Dave Cours, place went to Phil Brown from Summit (123) and third Erie Shores, Robert Heron, Beacon Hall and Paul Scenna, place went to Aldo Bortolon from Lookout Point (127). Donalda. Dorothy Hills was the Office Administrator. The Pro/Superintendent tournament was held at King Green Is Beautiful tied with Iowa’s The Reporter for the Valley hosted by Jason Honeyball. The top team was led Most Improved Publication at this year’s Newsletter Editor by Ray Richards, Mad River, second led by Tom Murphy, Session at the CGSAA Convention held in New Orleans. Lampton and third led by Richard Butler, St. Andrews On the move: John Taylor went from Twenty Valley to East. Low scoring superintendent was Jason Ireland from Hunters Point. Mark Sevsek, Assistant at Nobleton Lakes Conestoga. moved to Rio Vista. Chris Davies, who worked at Glen The Annual Baseball Tournament was held on July 15th. Abbey and before that Deer Creek, made a career change This tournament was started by Dennis McCracken 8 years and started working for Vanden Bussche Irrigation. earlier to provide a fun day for golf course superintendents Alan Beeney retired from the Halton Hills Country and their staff. With the acquisition of McCracken Golf Club after thirty six years. Al hosted the McClumpha Supplies by Plant Products, it was decided that Plant Tournament and Keith Bartlett presented him with a watch Products would continue to host this popular event. The inscribed with “Congratulations from your colleagues for winning team was from Toronto Golf and runner up was your years of involvement in the association”. First low from Mississaugua gross was Bruce Burger 73 and first low net was Kenneth Tiger mania came to the Canadian Open at Glen Abbey. Patterson 64. The George Darou Trophy went to Tom It was the first time that tickets were sold out for the Murphy for the best low gross for over 50 years old. Canadian Open. To give you an idea of how successful The CGSA Conference and Trade Show was held the tournament was, consider these final numbers: in Ottawa. Jim Wyllie was awarded the John B Steel • Ticket sales on property $100,000 ($17,000 in 1999) Distinguished Service Award. Paul Dermott, property • Sunday crowds estimated at 60,000 (30,000 in 1999) manager of Oakdale Golf and Country Club, was the • 10,000 hats sold (4,000 in 1999) winner of the 2000 Environmental Achievement Award • 180 Prime Rib Roasts (80 in 1999) which is co-sponsored by the CGSA and The Toro • 62 kegs = approx. 7000 glasses of beer Company. (30 kegs in 1999) Bob Hutcheson, owner of Hutcheson Sand and Mixes, • 8400 bottles of beer (3600 in 1999) supplied the sand for the 2000 Summer Olympics in These figures were taken from an article written by Sydney Austrailia to be used as the sand for the Beach Dean Baker who was the superintendent for many of Volley Ball competition. those Canadian Opens held at Glen Abbey. Major rainfall events plagued the Toronto area golf courses from April to June. Extensive damage was reported from Robert Cowan, Royal Woodbine, Don Crymble, Markham Green and Rob Ackermann, Markland Wood. Courses were closed and major damage was reported from many other courses during three separate storms. At the Ontario Turf Symposium, Gary Gravett, on behalf of the Georgian Bay Golf Superintendents Association, presented Rob Witherspoon, Director of Guelph Turfgrass Institute, with a $1,500 cheque to be put towards GTI research. The OTRF tournament was Tom Margetts, t.ag 27 Waterloo St. New Hamburg, ON Soil and Turfgrass Consultant N3A 1S3 held at Wooden Sticks on August 14th hosted by Brian Haus. Over $40,000 was raised for turfgrass research. P: 519-662-2479 www.innovativeagronomics.com C: 519-496-2143 The GTI Summer Research Field Day was held at the Email: tom@innovativeagronomics.com F: 519-662-2479 Guelph Turfgrass Institute. After lunch, Jack Eggens, Pam Turf or consequences by Doug Breen, Superintendent Golf North Properties King Tut, DNA, and the CIA Last week I was sitting in a waiting room - waiting - Egyptologists were somehow surprised by this information, which seems appropriate enough when you think about it. in spite of the fact he was nearly always pictured sitting down It’s not like they call it the “We’ll rush you right in” room. (even while doing things like archery), and was buried with Yet everyone around me seemed to be increasingly agitated over 300 walking sticks. They just thought he really liked that they were using the room for the exact purpose it walking sticks. King Tut should have been pictured sitting was designed. I generally hate waiting for anything, but down and playing Foggy Mountain Breakdown on a banjo, if you put me in a room that’s labelled “Waiting Room” because it sure sounds like the Ozarks to me. What I can’t I’m generally cognisant of the fact that waiting will most figure out is how a culture could be advanced enough to assuredly be involved. That’s why God invented National build pyramids, but not know that looking for dates at a Geographic. Every waiting room has a stack of trashy gossip family reunion is a recipe for creating NASCAR fans. magazines and lots of the soft-core anorexic porn that All this got me thinking about my own DNA. It’s a passes for fashion magazines; but way at the bottom of remarkably complex thing, where one’s entire set of the pile, there is always a four-year-old National Geographic. assembly instructions, are written in a language of just It doesn’t matter how old it is, they’re still fantastic. My four letters. It’s shockingly long, yet ridiculously tiny and parents have issues from the 1920’s and I still read them. contained in every cell of your body. And there are great It’s always been a mystery to me how they can churn out a long gangly bits of it that no one’s figured out what it publication, with the latest in research, the best writers, and does. One theory is the mystery code contains the entire the world’s greatest photographers (a periodical that ought experience of one’s ancestors, in a form that our brain can’t to cost $40 a copy to produce) and sell it for two bucks a translate, but pops up every once in a while. My ancestors go. It will come as no shock, I have a conspiracy theory were from the highlands of Scotland, which explains why I on this one. If you look at the masthead, you’ll see that look like the semi-domesticated spawn of a Viking and an the headquarters of The National Geographic Society is in Ox, and also explains why I bawl uncontrollably whenever Washington DC, about a driver and a nine iron away from I hear bagpipes. I know I’m never happier than when I’m the capital building, and right next to the CIA headquarters. standing on a tee at sunrise - as if that scenery is hard­ My theory is the magazine, the TV channel, and the whole wired into me somehow. It’s a pretty romantic notion, magilla is a front for a spy ring. They travel all over the that I might be genetically pre-disposed to be where I world, filming, interviewing and taking pictures, in places am. Genetic memory would also explain why my wife has Americans would not otherwise be welcome. The whole the uncontrollable urge to plant beets, eat perogies, and magazine is nothing more than a travelogue for CIA agents, constantly tell the children what a disappointment they are. of countries the US hasn’t bombed the crap out of yet. And the obvious conclusion, is that I have no choice but to This particular issue had an article about how scientists spend more time playing golf - it’s in my genes. had mapped the DNA of several Pharaohs’ mummies, including King Tut. Turns out there was a fair bit of scepticism on the part of Egyptologists, who questioned the reliability of the data that would be produced - apparently O.J. Simpsonjurors and Egyptologists have that in common. We can figure out the family tree of a guy who died 3000 years ago, but can’t trust the blood stains on a glove from last month. But that’s another conspiracy theory. So it turns out, the Egyptian royal family was as inbred as a bunch of barn cats. DNA samples concluded Tut’s parents were brother and sister. His own wife was his half sister, which I suppose is a bit better than what his father had done, but even his step-mother/mother-in-law was at best, a cousin. There were two infant mummies buried with him that turned out to be his own children, but were too line-bred to live. He also suffered from several genetic abnormalities, which led to him dying young and barely able to walk on his deformed foot. The aforementioned Ontario's Professional Turfgrass Solutions Team . 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Come and visit us in 2011 at the Ontario Golf Course Management Trade Show in Booth #310 and at Landscape Ontario Congress in Booth #216. TURF CARE Helping your business grow. Turf Care Products Canada 200 PONY DRIVE, NEWMARKET, ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 PHONE 905-836-0988 • FAX 905-836-6442 London Ph: 519-668-7664 • Milton Ph: 905-836-0988 x 7048 Scarborough Ph: 416-298-2101 • Gloucester Ph: 905-836-0988 x 5501