Green is Winter 2014 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association 90 Years and Counting OGSA Celebrates a Milestone ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Are Root Diseases on the Rise in Ontario? The Roller Coaster Ride of Winter 2014 Gardens with Punch on a Budget Crunch CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS Agreement No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1L 0H2 ___ _________ STILL EFFECTIVE STILL AMAZING unsurpassed - contact fungicide for control of fusarium patch and leaf spot in the spring and fall -rapid dollar spot knock down and control -a great alternative to DMI’s in the summer heat -cost effective -a great tank mix partner with Compass -Backed by Bayer www.bayeres.ca For more information on Rovral Green GT and the complete line of Bayer products, contact Bayer Environmental Science. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTION. 1-888-283-6847 Rovral Green GT is a registered trademark of Bayer. PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Green is I can't begin to describe what a privilege it is to be President of the OGSA during our 90th year. To follow in the footsteps Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association of past leaders and distinguished gentlemen who have done so much to elevate our profession is truly a humbling honour. Before I go any further, I would like to thank Past Editor President Doug Breen who stepped off the Board in January Justin Parsons at the AGM. Doug has passionately devoted countless hours justinparsons@engageagro.com of his time during his 12 years on the Board to ensure the Publisher & Advertising Manager association remains one of the largest and most successful Terry Davey by Phil Scully superintendent-run organizations in North America. The terry@blenheim.ca OGSA President OSGA grows stronger each year and the current Board of Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 Directors is committed to not only maintaining our position Administration Manager in the golf industry, but clearly focused on enhancing and protecting our interests Diane Davey both at a grassroots and a provincial level. diane@blenheim.ca The 2014 OGCM Conference and Trade Show in Toronto at the Westin Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 103 Harbour Castle was a huge success. The conference committee and Sally Ross flawlessly executed one of the best shows in recent memory. A great line up of Production & Design speakers ensured that delegates were able to obtain all necessary IPM CECs and Jeanette Thompson a well thought out trade show floor provided a fantastic venue for networking. I jeanettethompson@mac.com would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our sponsors for their support, Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 both of our show and of our association year after year. Green is Beautiful is published four times As I write this letter, most of Ontario is buried under a heavy blanket of snow a year (November / March / June / August) and an inconceivable layer of ice. It has been a winter like no other and we still by Blenheim INK for: have a long way to go before spring. Try and enjoy some well-deserved time with family and friends and if you haven't already, join the conversation on Twitter by following us @OntarioGSA. I wish everyone a healthy, happy and prosperous 2014 and, last, but definitely not least, happy anniversary OGSA! ■ Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association Providing engineering solutions Sally Ross, Executive Manager Guelph Turfgrass Institute to Ontario’s Golf industry. 328 Victoria Road South Guelph, ON N1L0H2 Engineering Design & Consulting Services Land Development & Approval Assistance Tel: 519-767-3341 Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Permit & Regulatory Agency Approval Assistance Fax:519-766-1704 Irrigation & Drinking Water Supply Strategies Email: manager@ogsa.ca Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Strategies www.ogsa.ca GPS Surveying & Mapping Services 30 Centurian Dr. Suite 100 Markham, Ontario L3R 8B8 Phone 905 475 1900 Fax 905 475 8335 www.scsconsultinggroup.com Published by Blenheim INK Administration Office: 4305 Fairview Street, Suite 232 Burlington, ON L7L 6E8 Premium Products Production Office: for all Your Turf Needs 1727 King Street East, Cambridge, ON N3H 3R6 PO Box 7, Waterloo, ON N2J3Z6 Toll Free: 1-877-618-8696 Fax:519-340-0293 Tel: 519-886-0557 www.blenheim.ca Fax: 519-886-0605 1-800-465-5849 www.oscturf.com INSIDE THIS ISSUE INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ALLIANCE AGRI-TURF 29 www.allianceagri-turf.com ALMACK AGRONOMIC SERVICES INC. 11 AQUATROLS 13 www.aquatrols.com BASF TURF PRODUCTS 10 www.BetterTurf.ca BAYER 2, 27 www.bayeres.ca BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 24 www.braemarbuildings.com DCS AGRONOMIC SERVICES 28 DIRECT SOLUTIONS 31 www.aatdirectsolutions.com DOUGLAS WOOD LARGE TREE SERVICE 18 www.douglaswood.ca 16 Feature: FAST FOREST 11 www.fastforest.ca 90 Years and Counting GREEN HORIZONS GROUP OF FARMS 23 OGSA Celebrates a Milestone www.JustSodit.com GREEN JACKET 11 www.GreenJacket.com/gib In This Issue MANA QUALI-PRO 14 6 2014 Conference Wrap Up 11 Communication www.quali-pro.com/QPCanada/ Vital to Success MASTER'S TURF SUPPLY LTD. 28 www.mastersturfsupply.com In Every Issue ONTARIO SEED COMPANY 3 www.oscturf.com 3 President's Message 20 U of G Update RD.SOLUTIONS 20 www.pdsolutions.ca 5 Editorial Message 22 Roots to Shoots SCS CONSULTING GROUP LTD. 3 www.scsconsultinggroup.com 12 Member Profile 25 Above the Hole TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 21,32 Darren Little, Superintendent www.turfcare.ca Cedar Brae Golf and 26 Off the Fairway Country Club TURF PROFESSIONALS CHOICE 11 www.turfprofessionalschoice.com 28 On the Road Again 1 5 Golf Course Highlight UNITEDAGRI PRODUCTS INC. 25 Riverstone Golf and 29 Looking Back www.uap.ca Country Club ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 19 30 Turf or Consequences www.zandersod.com 19 Health & Safety GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL 2014 Green is EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Although every effort is made to check Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Justin Parsons Christian Kuhn material for publication, the association is not Alan Dolick Reg Langen responsible for material published on behalf of Paul Grotier Cam Shaw its contributors. Rod Speake Kevin Kobzan All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole or part without the ON THE COVER written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Although some trade names may be mentioned OGSA 90th Anniversary OGSA is committed to serving its members, in articles contained in this publication, no '90' Cropped Photo credit: advancing their profession, and enriching endorsement is intended or implied by the Courtesy OGSA the quality of golf and its environment. Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. EDITORIAL MESSAGE uper Bowl win­ The truth is anyone can be ‘good’ S ning coach of the Pittsburgh at something. I mean, people can roll out of bed, put no preparation in MARK YOUR CALENDAR Steelers Mike Tom­ and be naturally good at something. UPCOMING 2014 OGSA lin once said, “It’s But to be great at what it is you do not what you’re takes a concerted effort to constantly Tournament & Events capable of, it’s improve. It takes dedication, about what you’re commitment, an ongoing honest by Justin Parsons, willing to do”. evaluation and then recalibration. Can Am Challenge He is of course I have had the pleasure of speaking Engage Agro Corp. Indianwood Golf & Country Club referring to what with many turf managers at the various it takes to achieve conferences that were held this winter Lake Orion, Michigan, USA success, and as we are all poised to tackle and most individuals were in the Monday, May 12,2014 another golf season, I find this recalibration stage. They were looking remark of interest. I suppose it’s nat­ for ways to do things more efficiently ural to reflect this time of year and and take their departments to the wonder how we can make improve­ next level. Hopefully, the education Pro/Super Challenge ments. After all, if we aren’t actively and networking that took place will Cobble Beach Golf Links trying to get better, then what is the yield results on numerous golf course point? properties in Ontario in 2014. Kemble, Ontario I have a lot of admiration for those It is also our hope that this Tuesday, June 3,2014 who never stop trying to improve publication, in some small way, lends themselves and the team that they are a hand in that department as well. In a part of. It may seem like the natural this issue, readers should find Pam thing to do, but planning on doing Charbonneau’s “From Roots to Shoots” Presidents' Day something and actually executing are column on winter injury of particular Westmount Golf & Country Club two totally different things. It’s easy interest, as well as Reg Langen’s recap to start out with the right intentions of the last 90 years of our association. Kitchener, Ontario and then get derailed by details and As always, we welcome any input advice Monday, July 28,2014 unforeseen issues. The individuals who or information our readership is willing can find a way to steer through the to share with us. After all, it is our obstacles and stay the course are the goal at Green Is Beautiful to constantly ones who inevitably rise to the top. improve as well. ■ Welcome to Our New Members Michael Ainsworth................ Class C Sean McGuire.......................... Class F Evan Coakwell................... Class Supt Shelter Valley Pines Golf Club Wyldewood Golf and Country Club Tyandaga Municipal Golf Course Mike Hammond..................... Class D Mathew Hamilton................. Class C Matthew Wood..................... Class F Chedoke Golf Course Muskoka Lakes Golf and Country Club Jordan Barber........................ Class C Soung Jchin Oh...................... Class C Doug Zweep........................... Class C Beacon Hall Golf Club Deerfield Golf Club Summit Golf and Country Club Sean Coughlin....................... Class S Tim Fletcher.......................... Class A Stephen Spencer....................Class F Ambassador Golf Club Heather Glen Golf Club Chesley Lake Camp Golf Course Chris Schuurmans.................. Class C Jean-Luc Brousseau..........Class Supt Jason Bindi..............................Class A Victoria Park East Golf Club Lee Golf Club Nobleton Lakes Golf Club John McKichan....................... Class E Andrew Butler........................ Class F Brad Meyers........................... Class C MTS Environmental Holdings Inc Weston Golf and Country Club Nobleton Lakes Golf Club Hiram Thompson.................... Class E Drew Robson........................... Class C Ian McDonald......................... Class F MTS Environmental Holdings Inc Club at North Halton Mill Run Golf and Country Club Scott N. Thompson................ Class E Michael Allen.......................... Class S Shawn Page............................ Class F MTS Environmental Holdings Inc Devil's Pulpit Golf Association Donalda Club Ian Hunter............................. Class C Chris Copeman....................... Class S Michael Giblin........................ Class C Highland Gate Golf Club Deerhurst Highlands Golf Course Heron Point Golf Links Ontario Golf Course Management Conference and Trade Show 2014 Conference Wrap Up he Ontario Golf Course Management Conference and presented with the Turfgrass Education Award for his T Trade Show kicked off on Wednesday, January 22, with the opening breakfast where Conference Chairman Phil to the industry. outstanding academics and his dedication and commitment Scully welcomed delegates to a very “frigid” city of Toronto. All Green is Beautiful award winners were as follows: delegates attending the conference had special ribbons which Barry Endicott Article of the Year: Cam Shaw (Burlington displayed their years of involvement in the association. After a G&CC), for his article, “The Story B. Hynd the Man.” great breakfast, Phil Scully introduced keynote speaker James Photo of the Year: Mark Prieur (Trafalgar G&CC), for his Duthie from TSN Sports. Phil also acknowledged the keynote picture that accompanied the article, “The RBC Canadian sponsor, NGF Golf. Open, Forget Snedeker and Mahan, Where is Luke List?” James engaged the audience with his interesting sports One of the luncheon highlights was the presentation of the stories, garnered through his career working for TSN. OGSA’s William Sansom Distinguished Service Award, which The first education session kicked off at 10 a.m. with Dave was presented to Ron Craig of Turf Care. In his acceptance Smith, who kindly presented in lieu of Adam Moeller who was speech, Ron explained how honoured he was by the award and unable to get to Toronto due to severe weather in the eastern United States. Awards Luncheon Jim Flett, Ontario Director on the CGSA Board, presented a plaque to OGSA President Rob Gatto to commemorate the OGSA’s 90th Anniversary, following which, Rob Gatto presented the awards to all the scholarship winners. Marc Brooks, from Stonetree Golf and Fitness and Legacy Ridge Golf Course, accepted the Heritage Award on behalf of his son, Wendel, while Dan McAllister (Donalda Club), Reg Langen (Richmond Hill GC) and Jasmine Stienke (The Briars) were there to accept their plaques for the Hugh L-R: 25 Year members, Phil Brown, Michael Dermott, Corrie Almack, Kirkpatrick Bursary. Distinguished Service Award Recipient; Ron Craigfrom Turf Care, David Sean Van Beurden from the University of Guelph was DeCorso, Michael Creed, Gord Wendover, Paula Sheppard, Dave Smith. The Barry Endicott Article of the Year was awarded to Cam Shaw (Burlington Scholarship winners from left to right: Jasmine 50 year members, John Arends, left, G&CC) for the Fall 2013 cover story 'The Story B. Hynd the Man ". Photo of the Stienke, Dan McAllister, Sean Van Beurden and Bill Hynd, right with OGSA Year, pictured above right, was awarded to Mark Prieur (Trafalgar G&CC). and Reg Langen. President Rob Gatto, center. by being in such great company as the past five recipients. He also thanked Paul Dermott who nominated him. Conference Chairman Phil Scully then presented the 25 year members with their plaques. Those in attendance were, David De Corso from Victoria Park East GC, Michael OGSA Board Members with GCSAA Representatives Dermott from Oakdale OGSA Staff with Kevin Doyle from the GCSAA, who was wearing his Hockey G&CC, Michael Creed, Canada Shirt to make good on a lost wager. from Wyldewood G&CC and Phil Brown, formerly for bringing in Larry Spain and Bill Martel was on hand to of Summit GC. introduce Larry. OGSA Secretary/Treasurer, John McLinden Associate members in attendance to accept their 25 year performed the formalities of thanking our sponsors for the plaques were, Corrie Almack from Almack Agronomic day’s education program. Services, Gord Wendover from Wendover Construction Ltd., The OGSA membership meeting took place late in the Paula Sheppard from Allturf, and Dave Smith, from DCS day with a group of around 35 members chatting informally Agronomic Services. about anything related to the OGSA. Past President, Doug Other members who could not be present, but achieved the Breen, encouraged the members to participate in discussion. 25 year milestone were, Robert Cresswell from Pleasant Valley All members, associates, assistants, technicians as well as G&CC, Mark McClure from Crosswinds G&CC, John Pickard superintendents were given letters of invitation in their from Maple City CC, Robert Burrows from Banff Springs GC packages. It is hoped that participation will increase next and Aart Van Veld. year, once all members realize that this is their opportunity Two 50 year members also attended, Bill Hynd and John to not only meet the Board of Directors, but to have input Arends. They were each presented with a gold watch to into the association’s initiatives, understand more about the commemorate their longevity as association members. association in general, and participate and give opinion in a The final presentation at the annual awards luncheon was relaxed and informal atmosphere. made to Rob Ackermann, who was given a plaqued image of On Thursday, January 23rd, Stephen Keating from the the initial formation meeting of the OGSA which was held in Toro Company presented 360 Leadership, following which, 1924 at Weston Golf & Country Club. Dave Smith and Dr. Luke Baker presented their session on Product Input along with Dr. Larry Stowell who participated Education Session and Trade Show online from San Diego. An afternoon of education followed with Dr. Michael The trade show kicked off at 11 a.m. with busy traffic most Agnew from Syngenta and Larry Spain from The Toro of the afternoon due to lunch on the trade show floor and Company. The Wednesday education program was sponsored the social that began at 4 p.m. The trade show social was by Syngenta, and both R. Marie Thorne and Scott Knox sponsored by Direct Solutions. introduced speakers. The Toro Company was also thanked ...continued on page 8 " Great job on the whole presentation. I like that one price gets you everything you need. " Continued from page 7... The OGSA’s 90th Anniversary Dinner and Show took place that evening, with many retired past presidents, honorary and even some 50 year members in attendance. The OGSA would like to thank Platinum Sponsor, Turf Care, for their generosity in supporting the OGSA by covering entertainment, décor and AV costs for the evening. The cocktail reception area was where a lot of reuniting of old friends took place. Special thanks go to GT Golf and Turf and Podolinsky Equipment Ltd., for sponsoring the drink tickets. Food stations were themed after restaurants in the 1920’s and provided all the diners with a huge variety of 2014 Board ofDirectors, left to right: (Back Row) Jason Boyce, Chad Vibert, Rob choice. Thanks also go to our food station sponsors, Vanden Gatto, MarkPrieur, Tim Muys, Scott White, (Front Row) David Kuypers, Cory Bussche Irrigation and G.C. Duke Equipment. Janzen, John McLinden, Phil Scully, Rod Speake. J. Rhett Evans from The GCSAA made a special presentation to the OGSA to commemorate the associations 90th Congratulations go out to Phil Scully (Granite GC) who Anniversary and thanked the OGSA for their involvement was elected President of the OGSA for 2014, with John in the GCSAA. McLinden (Ladies GC of Toronto) taking over the role of Vice President, and Mark Prieur (Trafalgar G&CC), OGSA Annual General Meeting assuming the role of Secretary/Treasurer. The OGSA Annual General Meeting took place on Friday Following the Annual General Meeting, breakfast was morning with an early 7:30 a.m. start, where the business of served on the trade show floor and GCSAA President Pat the association was taken care of expediently, followed by a Finlen addressed the delegates, bringing greetings from fond farewell to Doug Breen, who had spent 12 years on the the GCSAA. More dedicated trade show time followed until OGSA Board. 10:30 a.m. when the last education session was held, Frank The new board was elected with the addition of a new Rossi, Progressive Annual Bluegrass and Creeping Bentgrass, Director, Tim Muys, Superintendent from Piper’s Heath Population Management. The show wrapped up at noon on Golf Club. Friday, January 24th, allowing delegates and exhibitors to Immediate Past President is of course, Rob Gatto (Kings exit the city before the rush hour commute. Forest/Chedoke), and Directors, Chad Vibert (Mad River All in all, feedback from delegates has been excellent, GC), Scott White (Donalda Club), Rod Speake (Mill Run GC), with a majority looking forward to the easy access, parking Cory Janzen (Westmount G&CC), David Kuypers (Cutten and more family oriented atmosphere of Niagara Falls in Fields), and Jason Boyce (Smugglers Glen G&CC) were once January 2015. ■ again on the slate of nominees and elected for 2014. " You guys do a wonderful job! Keep up the good work and "thank you" for your hard work, dedication and sacrificing your time to increasing the professional image of the golf superintendent. We've all benefited in some way from our affiliation with this organization, and I for one, am proud to be a long standing member. " Survey Says... by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager ■ The majority of respondents like reasons for them not to attend, but many having food included in their associate members didn't realize they ur surveys this year revealed a lot conference registration packages were invited (63%), and some members O of interesting information and I would like to point out some of the more ■ The majority of respondents chose Niagara Falls as their preferred felt they could just get information from others. We hope that we will get a better interesting facts that we have found out conference location with downtown turnout to this meeting next year from as a result of our surveys. Toronto a close second all sectors of our membership in order to We had 179 respondents to our ■ 90% of respondents attend for acquire different points of view. survey from delegates. Of that group education and networking or for 46 did not attend the show; reasons everything the show has to offer Moving Forward ranged from lack of funding, access to with a small percentage attending The OGSA will be evaluating the IPM points elsewhere and not valuing for CEC's only surveys in greater detail and the 2015 the networking opportunities that were ■ 86% of associates found value in conference committee will try to respond available at the show. the trade show, however only 36% to areas of most concern for the majority Some Interesting Statistics support the current format, the of our membership. ■ 90% of delegates had registration balance of the respondents would Education sessions may be a bit costs covered by their employers like to see a change of some kind in shorter, with more soft skills and ■ 60 - 70% of delegates had the format for the trade show management type seminars. The accommodation expenses covered hotel pricing is 65% of Toronto at by their employers and 30% OGSA Membership Meeting our upcoming venue which is in the were even covered for their travel This meeting was held to allow for preferred location, Niagara Falls. expenses more informal discussion and gather We hope to see you all there, January ■ Speaker ratings averaged four out of input from all sectors of our membership. 28th-30th, 2015. ■ a possible five overall Disappointingly, not many assistants or associates attended. There were many " Excellent format (dedicated time), food was wonderful, very well attended and organized. The best trade show I can remember in some time... well done! " THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Cadence Insignia Premis Vision Pro HD Fungicide Fungicide Fungicide Turf Colourant We create chemistry that makes turf beautiful. When it comes to great turf, trust the brands that are tried & tested. Call 800-387-2449 or Visit www.betterturf.ca for more information. BetterTurf and VisionPro are trademarks of BASF. Premis is a registered trademark of BASF Trademarks GMBH. Cadence and Insignia are registered trademarks of BASF Corporation. © 2013 BASF Corporation. All rights reserved. Hugh Kirkpatrick Bursary Submission Communication Vital to Success by Dan McAllister, Assistant Superintendent asked. Assistant superintendents who can accomplish this will Donalda Club be able to reduce wasted time and incorrect work. A communication mistake that assistant superintendents ssistant superintendents have greater responsibility than may also make is assuming that employees have knowledge A ever before. With the demands, pressures and time of issues on the golf course or know why things are done a constraints placed on superintendents’ workdays, more work certain way. The supervisor must remember that very few of is being delegated to the assistant superintendent. Assistants their employees have the same education and experience that are ready for these challenges because they are educated, have they do. The assistant superintendent must also be careful years of experience and, in many situations, have the greatest not to use language and industry terms which the average knowledge of what is happening on the property. Despite this employee may not be aware of. It is always better to simplify insight, there are times when the operation does not perform when possible. as expected. I believe most of these instances are a result of When communicating with staff, assistant superintendents poor communication. should attempt to incorporate methods other than just words The flow of information between staff and management is to explain what they want staff to accomplish. Supplemental the key to the successful operation of any organization. Great tools such as drawings, maps of the golf course, or photographs planning and diverse skill sets are wasted when communication can be highly effective in getting messages understood. is not effective. It is the job of the assistant superintendent to Although we are busy, there are times when it is necessary to provide their staff with training, performance expectations, simply go to the work site and give a hands-on explanation task allocation, and supervision. Therefore, it is vitally of the job we would like accomplished. This can often be the important that they develop outstanding communication best way to avoid time-consuming and costly mistakes. skills to implement these objectives. Lastly, a vital part of being an effective communicator is One of the most fundamental concepts of communication to develop strong listening skills. In order to communicate is to make sure that the person being spoken to has a with staff, the assistant superintendent must first learn how comprehension of the task at hand. On occasion, an employee to listen to complaints and concerns. This provides both leaves a conversation with a supervisor not understanding manager and employee the opportunity to discuss their ideas what has been asked of them. As their supervisor, it is our and to feel as though their opinions matter. Regardless of the responsibility to ensure that they have understood the outcome, the employee should leave the conversation with conversation and that they are able to produce what we have greater understanding and clarity. ■ Winter Problems? Get the IMPERMEABLE barrier! Featuring Actual user photos - our NEW not retouched! air Flow Corrie Almack P.Ag. System Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 Box 256, Carlisle, ON Cell: (416) 580-5152 Minimizes temperature fluctuations • Protects from ice damage, crown hydration and desiccation LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca Lightweight and durable for years of easy installation & storage www.GreenJacket.com/gib 888-786-2683 LARGE TREE SALES AND RELOCATION Phil Dickie - ISA Certified Arborist ON-0309A Compost Based Topdressing & Construction Mixes pdickie@fastforest.ca USGA Spec. Sand & Mixes 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 WWW.TPCSAND.COM INFO@TPCSAND.COM 705.888.2689 P: (519) 748-6610 • F: (519) 748-6626 • www.fastforest.ca MEMBER PROFILE Darren Little Superintendent, Cedar Brae Golf and Country Club by Kevin Kobzan courses an extension of agriculture. I'm a Foreman, Granite Golf Club little ways from milking cows and running crop, but it definitely had a bearing on my eep rooted can be defined as career choice.” D something firmly established over A history also exists between Little and time. This term can be used to describethe property he manages. Cedar Brae, the family heritage of Darren Little, originally called Cedar Brook, changed Golf Course Superintendent at Cedar properties, with the current club being Brae Golf and Country Club. Now in his built in 1969, by CE (Robbie) Robinson. fourth year as superintendent, Little's Dating back 100 years, a large part of humble beginnings started on a dairy the property was owned by Little's great farm in south Markham, which has been grandfather. “It's a pretty cool thing. I entrenched in his family history for take ownership of the land as a portion over 150 years. Even though his stature was owned by my family, and knowing my resembles that of a football linebacker, forefathers would be proud that the land his early sights were set on a career in is still being worked.” law enforcement. As it turns out though, Throughout high school, Little worked agriculture was too ingrained in his family on the maintenance crew at Cedar Brae history. and decided to attend the University of Before golf entered the picture, Little Guelph for Agriculture Business and was gaining a strong work ethic and Turf Management. A few years later, he learning the core values of running a continued his education, completing turf farm, such as handling animals and management short courses at Guelph acquiring an aptitude towards operating and Cornell Universities. In addition to equipment. With over 150 jersey cattle his turf background, Little enrolled at The turf business as a second assistant or and 350 acres of crop to take care of, the Ivy School of Business for a business assistant can be grueling and there are a lot hard work was a must in order to ensure development program catering towards of hours to put in.” Even though he earned the success of the business. “When you the financial aspect of running a golf his stripes over the years, Little has a lot of were able to walk there was something to course. praise and respect for those who helped do. My grandfather would always have a With over 20 years of industry related him along the way. He credits Warren chore for me,” says Little. Although the experience, Little worked himself up Vout, Steve Hallard, Peter Lucas and Mike farm is no longer operational, it remains the ladder at Cedar Brae, holding every Etdes for playing integral parts in his in the family and has played a key role position offered while gaining valuable success thus far. Little also acknowledges in shaping his future. “I consider golf knowledge. “I kept my eye on the prize. his assistants Dave Feddersen and Mike McGimpsey and mechanic Brad Lang, commenting how fortunate he is to have three people who care about the business as much as he does. IN THE HOT SEAT However, as a superintendent, Little accepts and embraces all the responsibilities associated with the job. Q - Favourite tournament Q - Ultimate foursome Managing a golf course during any given A - The Masters A - Dad, Brother, Fred Couples season can present an array of obstacles. Besides Mother Nature and adapting to the Q - Favourite architect Q - Lowest round and where environment, he believes handling staff A - Pete Dye A - 78 at Bloomington Downs each year is the hardest aspect to control. “Dealing with 25 personalities on a day- Q - Favourite equipment Q - Favourite movie to-day basis is a challenge. Getting them A - Toro 648 A - Forrest Gump to come to work and work is a challenge. Recognizing the signs of burnout of your Q - Favourite golf course employees and recognizing it before it A-Augusta National becomes a problem is important. Whether it’s awarding time off or a change of scenery at work, I’ll try to find a way (to set for June, 2015. In 2012, the third hole and goals, is what keeps Litde grounded make them) be happier.” at Cedar Brae was moved to allow for a and enjoying what his hard work has Although technology and our land sale to help fund the new clubhouse. allowed him to achieve. “I love being understanding of the needs of a turfgrass The green was taken apart, piece by there early mornings before a round is plant is improving, Little feels one of piece, and the fairway turned from a played, taking it in and just remembering the biggest challenges of the job is slight dogleg right to a dogleg left. “This why I do it.” meeting member expectations despite was the first green in the master plan to In addition to his time spent on the unfavorable growing conditions. This be rebuilt in the vision of Ian Andrew,” golf course, Little also serves on the can become even more problematic if says Little. The plan also includes a full Board of Directors of Markham-East York restrictions prevent us from improving bunker renovation over four years and Agricultural Society. There he assists in those environments. With Cedar Brae's tee rebuilding. the operations of the Markham Fair, the location nestled in the Rouge Valley, Although managing a golf course largest four day fair in Canada with over acquiring permits can become a difficult requires dedication and resolve, Little 700 volunteers. and costly transaction. “We know so takes great pride in what Cedar Brae Overall, Little credits his work much more about growing environments offers to those hitting the links. “We achievements to his healthy home life, and the amount of sunlight healthy turf never take our foot off the gas from day praising his wife Natalie and twin sons needs to survive through the aggressive one to the last game of the season. We Archer and Daniel. With all the attention inputs we place on them, but permits strive to exceed member expectations. a golf course requires, he credits the are expensive and may not allow you to At the end of the day, we are employed smooth transition from work to his remove something even if you have a by member satisfaction and we win and home life to his family. “Having a happy plan in place.” lose as a team.” But with all the hard household and a happy family is part of With a long range plan established, work involved, an appreciation for the success in life and success in your job,” Cedar Brae and Little are entering into environment and beauty a golf course says Little. “She [Natalie] understands exciting times. In 2010, membership possesses is what motivates Little. This, that because you're the boss doesn't approved the rebuilding of the clubhouse coupled with his gratitude towards people mean you work the least, it means you starting in April, 2014, with completion in the industry who share similar visions work the most.” ■ Greens • The #1 surfactant worldwide for highly managed turf areas • Produces drier, firmer putting surfaces • Strengthens plant's natural ability to Coursewide Confidence withstand stress and disease pressure Fairways • The perfect water management solution for fairways and other large turf areas • Enhances penetration and distribution of water and nutrients • Reduces water use on cool-season grasses by 25% or more www.aquatrols.com The Gift of CHOICE Give back to your turf. Protect your turf from a full range of insect and disease pests by choosing the right product and the best supplier for your needs. The Quali-Pro® portfolio of proven actives provides the protection you need and choice you want. 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GROWTH SPRAY PATTERN FUNGICIDE INSECTICIDE REGULATOR INDICATOR Same a.i. as Same a.i. as Same a.i. as Same a.i. as Same a.i. as A unique Rovral® Green GT Banner Maxx* Merit® 0.5G Merit® 75 WSP Primo Maxx® pigment spray pattern indicator Don Surgeoner, Canadian Quali-Pro Manager (519) 535-2409 • dsurgeoner@manainc.com • Quali-Pro.ca ™ Foursome, Know the Sign and T-NEX are trademarks and ® Quali-Pro is a registered trademark of FarmSaver.com, LLC. ® Merit and Rovral are registered trademarks of Bayer. ® Banner Maxx and Primo Maxx are registered trademarks of Syngenta Group Company. 14007.01.14 GOLF COURSE HIGHLIGHT Riverstone Golf and Country Club 195 Don Minaker Drive Brampton, Ontario L6P 2V1 Tel: 905-794-8483 jhill@riverstonegolf.com www.riverstonegolf.com Golf Course Superintendent: Jordan Hill Assistant Superintendent: Andre McNeely COURSE PROFILE Biggest Maintenance Challenge About the Course Managing the traffic patterns due to the tight course layout along the West Humber River. A challenging shot maker's golf course with the winding West Humber River coming into play on every golf hole. A CLOSER LOOK Established: 2009 What You Need to Know Original Architect: MBTW - Kevin Holmes Predominant Grass Type: Type of Club: Semi-Private Bentgrass Greens, Bluegrass Tees and Fairways Number of Holes: 9 Predominant Soil Type: Clay loam Number of Rounds Annually: 15,000 Type of Greens: 80/20 sand profile Practice Facility: Short Game Course Length: 2,300-2,800 yards Size of Property: 40 acres Size of Greens: 2 acres Size of Tees: 1 acres Size of Fairways: 6 acres 90 Years and Counting OGSA Celebrates a Milestone by Reg Langen, Assistant Superintendent, of the OGSA and was the association’s very first president. Richmond Hill Golf Club In 1924, Sansom was the Superintendent, or, at the time, “Greenkeeper” of the Toronto Golf Club. There is a belief his year marks the Ontario Golf Superintendents that Sansom did some pre-meeting networking because at the T Association’s (OGSA) 90th anniversary. In a time where many things are easily disposable, this achievement deserves first association meeting the group very quickly voted Sansom to the first President. The original group name decided on was be celebrated. Nine decades after the first meeting was held at the Canadian Golf Greenkeepers Association. Upon applying Weston Golf Club, with only 15 attendees, the OGSA currently for incorporation, the new group chose the more inexpensive connects over 900 golf course superintendent’s, managers and route of incorporating provincially, thus becoming a provincial associates, providing them with a line of communication, a voice, organization. and support that is invaluable. The idea behind forming this group was to develop a network To learn the history of the OGSA, one has to look no further of professionals that could share ideas and aid each other than Gordon Witteveen’s book A Century of Greenkeeping. in times of crisis. There was a feeling that there was a need to Witteveen walks readers through the history of greenkeeping establish prizes for friendly competition, and an agency to aid in Ontario and profiles some of the historic events that members in obtaining employment. The original membership helped evolve the profession in the province. While Witteveen entry fee was $2.00, with annual dues of $10.00, but it didn’t take himself was an extremely influential individual in the Ontario long for the young group to learn that those fees were a bit too greenkeeping industry, he tells the stories of other men who steep. Due to a lack of interest in membership, the entrance fee played critical roles in the development of the OGSA and the was removed and annual dues were cut in half. profession as a whole. In 1930 at the Royal York Golf Club (now St. George’s Golf and The story of the OGSA begins with the very first meeting. Country Club), the members hosted an equipment show. This The Weston Golf Club was the host site and the 15 attendees event was a strong beginning for the group and was a historic represented only nine golf clubs. The initial invitation was sent event in Ontario greenkeeping. More than 200 professionals out late in the summer of 1924 by C.L. Knuth, who was the attended the conference from as far as Quebec and even from Secretary/Manager at Weston during that time. It was at this parts of the United States. This event gave the association the meeting that the OGSA story began and the first group of leaders necessary funding it had been lacking and allowed them to was voted in. continue in their growth. William Sansom is probably the man most well known from This event had a large number of exhibitors this inaugural meeting because of the annual award presented for its time, but there was one company with under his name. The OGSA presents the “William Sansom” one product in particular that was of much Distinguished Service Award only upon receipt of a nomination interest. Aikenhead Company arrived at the with supporting documentation and approved by the Board. 1930 equipment show with a machine they This accolade is given to a professional that has devoted their called, “The Ideal Triplex”. This machine career in Ontario to the turf industry and is held in an extremely was supposedly able to cut up to 40 acres high honour. Wiliam Sansom is essentially seen as the forefather of fairways in a single day. At the time, the jg The idea behind forming this group was to develop a network of professionals that could share ideas and aid each other in times of crisis. idea seemed ridiculous, but this company would eventually sell The beginning of World War II brought a several changes their design and remove itself from the turf market altogether. to the Ontario Greenkeepers Association. It was at the start of Aikenhead Company continued to grow in another industry and the war that both Sansom and Hawkins stepped down from now goes by the name, “The Home Depot”. their roles to make way for John Austin of Humber Valley Golf During this era of the association, conferences were often Club. Austin had served as a secretary for several years prior to held alongside the American Association (GCSAA) because his appointment as President, so he was more than qualified to the membership was small in the Ontario group. It was at the continue the association’s growth. 1932 trade show in New York that Sansom felt unhappy with the At a gathering of members in 1946, a discussion began attendance of his fellow Ontario members and began urging regarding a golf event for the members. The event would be many of them to begin planning for 1933 in Chicago. Low governed and organized by the association and prizes would be attendance was primarily due to the ongoing Great Depression, awarded to three greenkeepers, three assistant greenskeepers, which resulted in many clubs having issues paying wages, as well and one to greenkeepers over the age of 50. There were many as little funding for continuing education and networking events. opinions and options for holding the first event, but eventually Sansom continued to work diligendy and build awareness for the the decision was to hold it at Thornhill Country Club. Alex group to help attract new members. Were it not for Sansom’s McClumpha was a director at that time and Greenskeeper hard work and determination during this time, the association at Thornhill. The event was designed to aid greenkeepers may have never survived. with some form of life insurance and to provide support for Another forefather of the Ontario association was Bert member’s widows. This event was named The Alex McClumpha Hawkins of Lakeview Golf Club. Hawkins was also in attendance Tournament and has been an annual occurrence since that at the inaugural meeting and was voted in as the Ontario first meeting in 1946, which makes it the longest running golf association’s first secretary and treasurer. In those times, the role event in OGSA’s history. McClumpha would go on and become of secretary was similar to the position of vice president today. president of the OGSA from 1953-56. Hawkins was the secretary for the first 10 years of the association It was not until the winter of 1950 that a discussion of a name and became the second president in 1934. It is said that much change was brought to the table. The profession was advancing of the success of the OGSA can be attributed to Hawkins hard and die tide of superintendent was much more common than work and dedication over his tenure on the committee. Hawkins greenskeeper. The new official name was changed to the Ontario would remain the president until the beginning of World War II Golf Superintendents’ Association, which showed how far the in 1939. Ten years later, Hawkins was awarded a profession had come. scroll for his commitment and faithful service In 1952, the association’s membership was growing, so the to the association. He was employed at Board of Directors decided to raise the annual dues from $5.00 Lakeview Golf Club for more than 50 years to $10.00. This was necessary because the operation was running and his obituary hung in their clubhouse a deficit of $160. for many years after his passing. ...continued on page 18 Continued from page 17... short course didn’t quite come to fruition at that time, but it wasn’t long until the first group of men graduated the turfgrass Unfortunately, even with the fee increase all members were short course in 1972. charged an additional $5.00 fee to make up the difference. The It was during the 1960’s that the Board of Directors decided Board then decided it was wise to begin taking on associate to publish a newsletter. This newsletter would be sent out members. The associate member’s annual dues would be to members to let them know of some interesting stories and $10.00, but they would have no voting rights. Associate members findings related to the industry. The newsletter started very consisted of contractors, suppliers, sales and other related small, but quickly gained value and moved from a few pages to a professionals. more substantial publication. A little known fact is that in 1966, It was during this time that The Ontario Agricultural College when the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association (OAC) was slowly developing test plots of turf. These plots were (CGSA) was born, the OGSA graciously donated the name of located in Guelph on the south side of the greenhouses. They their magazine (The Green Master) and their editor at the were small and not very well kept. The RCGA and OGSA were time to help the national association get their newsletter off the pushing the OAC and the Department of Horticulture to start ground. It was later that the OGSA began publishing their new doing more research to aid superintendents to better understand magazine under its current name, Green is Beautiful. turf issues. In the summer of 1954, the O’Keefe Brewing On the year of its golden anniversary, the OGSA decided that Company decided they would provide a scholarship for students a big party was in order. The president at the time was Robert who were interested in pursuing a career in turf management. T. Heron. Heron, who was previously the assistant of CGSA The OGSA desired to take this one step further and work with President Jim Wylie, organized an event that would include golf the OAC and O’Keefe Brewing Company on a turf education and dinner at Lambton Golf Club. Invitations were sent out, not short course based in the Guelph area. Unfortunately, this dream only to OGSA members, but also presidents and greens chairmen was too ahead of the times and the O’Keefe Brewing Company from other golf clubs. The guest of honor was the oldest current ended the scholarship in 1958. Although this scholarship was living member of the association, Dick Homewood. Homewood removed, there was an announced winner in 1958. Witteveen was a previous Superintendent of Lambton, the OGSA’s fourth says that although he was announced the winner, O’Keefe had president (1948-1949), and, at the time of the event, was decided to withdraw the $700 prize. The OGSA’s idea of the employed as a gardener at Lamb ton. With the construction of new golf courses all over Ontario, the membership numbers grew significantly from 1975-2000. Although some members may have only been around for a short period, there were some key people during this time that helped forge a pathway for the association. Awaken One of the major steps during this period was the development of the Ontario Turfgrass Research Foundation, the Excitement brainchild of Paul Dermott and Keith Nesbit. This foundation was instrumental in pushing the government to provide land at the University of Guelph which was the beginning of the Douglas Wood Guelph Turfgrass Institute (GTI). The GTI is the current home Large Tree Service of the OGSA and conducts coundess numbers of studies and can jump start your coordinates research for the turfgrass industry. This facility helps course’s appeal provide superintendents with the knowledge base necessary to with the help of maintain turf to today’s standards. A celebration of the OGSA’s 75th Anniversary was an Paul Hanousek, opportunity to host a cocktail party at the Constellation Hotel Certified Arborist near Pearson International Airport. Many past presidents came out to multiple events to celebrate the accomplishment, including The Ontario Turfgrass Symposium and a June golf tournament. The OGSA, which had begun in 1924 with only 15 men at Weston Golf and Country Club, now consisted of an www.douglaswood.ca astonishing 400 members. This year the OGSA is celebrating 90 years as an association. During the past nine decades, there have been countless people, Paul Hanousek, Certified Arborist too many to name in this one article, who have made significant Members of OGSA, ISA and OCAA contributions to not only the association, but also the industry 1.800.353.3019 and the profession in Ontario. The membership roster of the T. 519.856.2771 • F. 519.856.1447 OGSA is a solid group of professionals who all still believe in paulhanousek@douglaswood.ca many of the goals that Wiliam Sansom and Bert Hawkins drafted P.O. Box 339 Rockwood ON NOB 2K0 back in 1924. Happy Birthday OGSA and here is looking forward to “A Century of the OGSA.” ■ HEALTH & SAFETY The Changing Face of Safety in Ontario his article addresses a number of issues facing employers must take this into consideration as the MOL and the WSIB T and supervisors in Ontario. Health and safety in the workplace is going to change, and have determined that this demographic is experiencing the highest number of incidents. As your golf club prepares for some of the changes are happening now. The Ontario Ministry the coming golf season, please make sure that your hiring, of Labour (MOL) and the Workplace Safety and Insurance training and orientation programs address the new and Board (WSIB) are working together in a more cohesive manner young workers coming into your workplace. to jointly address health and safety issues in the workplace. If you are interested in finding out more on the health and Some of the key outcomes of this are: safety issues that are important to the MOL and WSIB, take • New training programs are being developed, regulations the time to go to the following web addresses: www.labour.gov. are being updated and there will be a greater emphasis on on.ca/english/ and www.wsib.on.ca/en/community/WSIB enforcement in the coming months and years. Some of you Enjoy the last of our wonderful winter and let’s hope spring may already have experienced some of these changes. comes early. ■ • There is a greater emphasis being put on the training of supervisors in their roles and responsibilities. As I have discussed in previous columns, the MOL has developed new DougJohnson, Consulting, Safety and training documents for worker and supervisory training. First Aid Supplies, WHMIS Training, These training requirements will begin to be enforced after SAFETAID July 1st of this year. Tel: 519-837-0997 • If incidents occur where there are injuries or loss of life, Fax: 519-837-1996 the MOL will not be lenient and those employers and doug@safetaid.ca supervisors who have not met their legislative obligations will be in a position to be charged with “failure to comply”. No organization or individual wants to be in this situation. Call us • Another change that is occurring is with respect to fall about our prevention. A new training program has been developed Turf Services and in the early part of this year the MOL is going through a consultation process that will determine the implementation Delivering and enforcement schedule. If you want to download the Working at Heights Training Program Standard, superior sod and you may do so by going to the following web address: www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pubs/wah/index.php quality service ■ The training for both the Working at Heights Basic Theory module and the Working at Heights Practical Equipment Module will be valid for a period of three • No. 1 Kentucky Bluegrass years from the date of successful completion. • Premium Bentgrass ■ Compliance will be required once a future regulation comes into effect, with initial application to those • Extreme Fescue regulated under the construction regulations - Ontario • Custom grown sod available Regulation 213/91 - Construction Projects. Regulatory • Large or small rolls consultations are scheduled to take place in early 2014. ■ For other sectors, it would be phased in subsequent • Healthier, greener sod to a consultation on the application of the standard and a regulatory amendment. However, all golf course operations should be aware that if construction- related work is taking place on the property, then the construction regulation takes effect. This means that this new standard will be required sooner than later. • Another item that all golf courses need to address, first mentioned in this column last spring, pertains to new and young workers. Last year the MOL completed a safety blitz Phone:877-727-2100 targeting new and young workers. It is interesting to note www.zandersod.com that during this blitz there were 2982 visits and there were 17525 Jane St., RR #1 | Kettleby, Ontario | L7B0J6 an average of 2.92 orders issued per visit. All employers U of G UPDATE Are Root Diseases on the Rise in Ontario? ased on the diagnostic samples that The Usual Suspects B have come to the GTI Turfgrass The primary root diseases that we see on Diagnostic Clinic over the past three golf greens include Take-all patch (caused years, I used to wonder if root diseases by the fungus Gaeumannomyces graminis) were on the rise in Ontario or if we were (Fig. 1), summer patch (Magnaporthe just getting more of them because they poae) (Fig. 2), Pythium root dysfunction are harder to self-diagnose. However, (various Pythium spp.) (Fig. 3) and plant- after visiting numerous courses in parasitic nematodes. In the samples person and speaking with a number of received in the clinic from throughout superintendents over the years, I would Canada, about 50% of our diseased argue that root diseases are, in fact, more samples (meaning that we exclude those prevalent than they were a decade ago. that end up being caused by abiotic, or The question is why? non-living issues) are diagnosed with The purpose of this article is to briefly take-all patch. Approximately 15% have mention some of the root diseases that we summer patch, 10% have Pythium root see coming through our laboratory, list dysfunction (or cool-season Pythium) recommendations for these diseases as a and about 10% have plant-parasitic whole, and finally to speculate as to why nematodes. If we look at just what we see we are seeing an increase in these “silent in Ontario, the numbers change a bit to killers.” 30%, 20% 10%, 5%, respectively. Either way, however, over 50% of the diseased samples that we receive in the clinic are diagnosed with some type of root disease. As I mentioned above, it is possible that ATTENTION! part of this is because root diseases are a bit more difficult for superintendents to IPM Certified self-diagnose, often leading to a request for outside help, but that is certainly not Agents the whole story. General Recommendations There are some common recommendations for root diseases Get your in general, but many of them are recertification credits not practical for today’s golf course superintendents. The first of these is ON-LINE increasing height of cut. This allows for greater area for photosynthesis, and, with subsequently better root growth and recovery from stress. However, most turf P.D. Solutions! managers are not willing to sacrifice ball roll distance for healthier turf as the demands of golfers will likely not allow it. Therefore, we recommend the following practices be followed to overcome some Visit: of the stress placed on plants that are cut Fig. 1: Symptoms of take-all patch on a exceptionally low: www.pdsolutions.ca 1. Reduce soil compaction through creeping bentgrass green. Fig. 2: Symptoms of take-all patch on an annual bluegrass green. or call frequent core aeration. Roots need Fig. 3: Cool-season Pythium on a mixed large pore spaces to grow, especially species green. Note the lack of pattern that 1-877-977-6774 when they are under attack. Core could mimic abiotic damage. aeration creates such pore spaces and allows the plants to better heal increase root depth, allow oxygen being skipped due to demands by end following infection into the rootzone and improve users. water infiltration temporarily, until It is important that superintendents 2. Remove excess thatch, if present, or alter practices to reduce the core aeration can be done in the continue to strike a balance between potential for thatch to develop. late summer. keeping the golfers happy, while also ensuring that turfgrass is maintained Roots can get bound in the thatch Following some of these simple practices layer and be shorter and weaker, in as sustainable a matter as is possible. can increase health of the turf while, at making it difficult to counteract Because root diseases attack root systems, the same time, reducing conditions that infection if the overall plant is healthy, much of the are conducive for development of root damage can be overcome as root systems 3. Reduce excess soil moisture. diseases. are quite redundant in turfgrass systems. Each of the pathogens thrives in By following the recommendations moist conditions, so reduction Increased Root Diseases suggested in this article, greens sites are of soil moisture without creating Now back to the original question, likely to have healthier root systems and stressful conditions for the plant are root diseases on the rise and if so, turf, which is the best defense against will decrease the conditions under why? There are likely numerous factors, root diseases. ■ which the pathogens can grow including that we are using fewer broad­ spectrum fungicides that remain in the 4. Reduce stress in general. This soil for extended periods of time (e.g. means altering traffic patterns and mercury). But I would argue that one Dy. KaterinaJordan, PhD. skipping clean-up cuts to allow the of the main reasons we see an increase Assistant Professor of turf a chance to recover, especially in root diseases is the excess stress that Turfgrass Science during the season when more turf managers are placing on golf course aggressive stress reduction practices Dept. of Plant greens turfyear after year. Mowing heights cannot be implemented. Agriculture, are lower, there is more play, fertilizer applications (especially nitrogen) are University of Guelph 5. Solid tine aeration. During the season, solid tine aeration can help being reduced and cultivation is often kjordan@uoguelph.ca The most advanced, most durable and most flexible irrigation products. Built for today’s golf courses. The right choice. Turf Care Products Canada 200 Pony Drive, Newmarket, ON L3Y 7B6 • PH: 905-836-0988 • FAX: 905-836-6442 LONDON Ph: 519-668-7664 • Fax:519-668-3722 EDWARDS Ph: 613-821-1880 • Fax:613-821-2919 TURF CARE www.turfcare.ca Helping your business grow. FROM ROOTS TO SHOOTS The Roller Coaster Ride of Winter 2014 t is Canada, it is winter and it is almost I impossible not to talk about the weather so far. Let’s start at the beginning. On Sunday, December 22, 2013, a blanket of freezing rain fell over many parts of south, central and eastern Ontario. For those that are not in the turf industry, it will be remembered by the downed trees, downed power lines and power outages. Those of us in the turf industry will remember the 2-5 cm of ice that covered the turf (Figure 1). Then along came the New Year greeting us on January 7th, with a low of -26°C and a Fig. 1: A solid sheet of ice under the snow after the Fig. 2: A layer of snow, over slush on top of ice wind chill of -40°C. All of this occurred with freezing rain storm. litde or no snow cover. Next there was the “wintermission”. On January 11th, 2014, there is usually turf injury accompanying it. the high in Guelph was 6°C and it rained all day. This resulted In addition to respiration from turfgrass plants under covers, in a layer of snow on top, a layer of slush under that and a layer there are also soil bacteria that are respiring in the very same way of ice on the bottom (Figure 2). Fast forward to today (January as the turfgrass plants. This further contributes to the oxygen 21st, 2014) and we are in a deep freeze again with a low of -25°C depletion and the carbon dioxide buildup. Factors that affect expected tonight and a wind chill of -34°C. I think that summarizes the rate of respiration of plants and soil bacteria are temperature the roller coaster weather so far this winter. Now let’s examine the under the ice cover, soil water content, degree of plant dormancy weather pattern, and, with some science background, we can try to and soil organic matter content. Rochette et al. (2006) tested the predict the possible outcomes for golf greens this spring. respiration rates of soil based greens vs. USGA specification greens The four causes of turf death in the winter can be attributed and found that the soil based greens consistently had higher to anoxia, direct low temperature injury, winter desiccation and respiration rates than the USGA specification greens, probably snow moulds. Winter desiccation is rarely a problem in Ontario. due to the presence of more microbes in soil based green. It occurs in areas with litde or no snow cover accompanied by Castonguay et al., (2009) found that annual bluegrass is desiccating winds during the winter. Most of the high quality turf more susceptible than creeping bentgrass to anoxia and if the surfaces are treated preventatively for snow moulds, so I will not temperature is lowered to -2°C, the damage from anoxia is much discuss them in this article. less than at higher temperatures. The good news is the anoxia seems to be worse if temperatures are higher. Our ice cover Anoxia combined with low temperatures might lessen the damage due Let’s start with the ice. Ice is a problem because it can seal off to anoxia. the greens from the outside atmosphere creating a condition Just how much more susceptible to anoxia is annual bluegrass? called anoxia. Anoxia can occur under an ice cover or under a In laboratory and field experiments, annual bluegrass has died winter protective impermeable cover and it can kill turf. Anoxia after 45 days of ice encasement. In the real world, superintendents means lack of oxygen. Under covers the turf plant uses up oxygen from Quebec and Scandinavia report that within as little as 30 days and other toxic gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), can build of ice cover, annual bluegrass plants can die from anoxia. up. During the winter, under snow, ice or covers, turfgrass plants respire. In this process, sugars within the plant are used in the Direct Low Temperature Injury presence of oxygen to provide energy for the plant so that it can A properly cold acclimated turfgrass plant is more winter-hardy than one that is not acclimated. Cold acclimation, or hardening, stay alive during the winter. The equation for respiration is: is controlled by climate, day length, temperature, shade and grass species, as well as maintenance practices such as fertility. Direct low temperature injury results when turf is exposed to lethal cold temperatures. Ice forms in the intercellular spaces In a closed system such as the one that might exist under a from water that is drawn outside of the cell to form ice crystals. golf green covered in ice, oxygen gets depleted and this process This results in cell leakage and cell dehydration. Cold hardiness or reaction cannot occur. If this is the case, the turfgrass plants levels decline slowly with time when plants are maintained at will run out of energy and eventually die. The other aspect of temperatures just below freezing, but the loss of cold hardiness is respiration in a closed system is that as the oxygen is depleted, more rapid at colder temperatures. carbon dioxide builds up and it may have deleterious effects. The good news is that a properly cold acclimated creeping Usually anoxia can be detected by the foul smell that emanates bentgrass plant on average has an LT50 (the temperature at from a green when it is uncovered in the spring. The smell is which 50% of the plants die from low temperature injury) of thought to be a result of the build-up of gases under the cover and -35°C. Annual bluegrass, on the other hand, has LT50 values of -19 to -31 °C. We also know that not all annual bluegrass plants storm. There was some hope during the “wintermission” that all of are created equal. The maximum freezing tolerance achieved by the snow and ice that formed in late December would melt. Here annual bluegrass ecotypes from western Pennsylvania was superior in Guelph, that didn’t happen. In fact, the rain on top of the snow to the ecotypes from Central Quebec that spend the majority of produced an even thicker layer of ice when temperatures dipped the winter under a thick insulating snow cover. After weeks of cold after wintermission and now, everything is frozen solid again. So acclimation, the western Pennsylvania ecotypes had an LT50 of essentially, there was no loss of ice cover so the clock is now at -31.2°C and the Quebec ecotypes had an LT50 of -22.8°C. almost 30 days with a solid ice cover. Turfgrass plants are most susceptible to direct low temperature There have also been two periods after the ice was formed injury in late winter to early spring. At this point, the sugars in where the temperatures have dropped to -25°C. Annual bluegrass the plants have been used up (see respiration equation above) is winter-hardy to roughly -19-31 °C. and the plants will be dehardening as temperatures in the soil and air warm up. It is the temperature during the dehardening What Can We Expect? period in spring that most affects direct low temperature injury. As far as anoxia is concerned, if you have an ice layer and soil Baseline LT50’s in early winter were -20°C for annual bluegrass and based greens where the dominant turfgrass species is annual -40°C for creeping bentgrass. By mid-March the LT50 for annual bluegrass, with very little snow cover the likelihood of some bluegrass was -14°C and -30°C for creeping bentgrass. A rapid rise injury due to anoxia is high. That being said, the fact that the in temperature above 5°C is enough to de-harden annual bluegrass temperatures have been so cold is actually good news. We know plants raising the LT values substantially. anoxia is worse when temperatures hover around the 0°C mark. If you have sand based greens where the dominant turfgrass species Anoxia and Direct Low Temperature Injury is annual bluegrass, this is a better situation. If you have sand based We know from research conducted at Olds College in Alberta greens and mostly creeping bentgrass, this is the best scenario. that ice covers and ice encasement lower turfgrass winter hardiness The extremely cold temperatures that we have experienced so levels. Tompkins et al. (2004) looked at cold hardiness levels of far have come at a time when the turfgrass plants are still probably annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass under ice cover, ice at their maximum winter-hardiness. encasement, or snow for various lengths of time in a laboratory ...continued on page 24 and a field study. In the laboratory study, plants in the ice cover treatment were covered with a 2.5 cm thick layer of ice which was formed gradually by spraying the surface of the turf with a mist bottle in a freezer. Ice encasement was accomplished by completely saturating the soil of a plug of turfgrass and then adding the 2.5 cm layer of ice as described above for the ice cover treatment. The control treatments had a thick layer of snow cover maintained throughout the experiment. Snow covered treatments maintained cold hardiness for the PASSION. longest period of time and ice encasement produced the most rapid loss of cold hardiness. The differences were greater for annual bluegrass than creeping bentgrass, as you would expect. At IT DRIVES OUR 90 days after treatment, snow covered annual bluegrass had cold hardiness levels of -18°C, while the ice covered plants had cold hardiness levels of -4°C and ice encased annual bluegrass plants TURFGRASS. VARIETIES AND SPECIALTY BLENDS were dead. Ice covered annual bluegrass had a rapid loss of hardiness Including eco-solutions™ between 75-90 days after treatment and ice encased annual bluegrass rapidly lost hardiness between 45-60 days after ice encasement. By contrast, creeping bentgrass began to lose hardiness at 90 days after treatment in both ice treatments, but retained moderate hardiness levels for 150 days. In the field study, annual bluegrass had a more rapid loss of hardiness than in the lab. Annual bluegrass plants subjected to ice encasement in the field study lost cold hardiness between day 45 and day 60. So there seems to be some interaction between ice encasement and susceptibility to direct low temperature injury. Depending on the turf species and the length of time the turf is under ice, it doesn’t require really cold temperatures in late winter or early spring to kill turf. GREENHORIZONS SOD FARMS HAMILTON: 905.389.1315 Back to the Winter Conditions CAMBRIDGE: 519.653.7494 We definitely have a fairly solid ice cover over much of the short WWW.JUSTSODIT.COM mown turf in many areas of Ontario, which started with the ice FROM ROOTS TO SHOOTS Continued from page 23... Regardless, given the ice and the weather to date, it is a very good idea to go out and sample an area that you suspect might With the weather that we have experienced so far, there is good have anoxia or low temperature injury as soon as possible. There evidence in the science to suggest that there is a high likelihood is a good video of how to do this on the USGA web site in the of annual bluegrass damage due to direct low temperature Northeast Regional Update for January. injury, as well as anoxia, once spring comes. Should cold Another important point is to document the conditions on your temperatures return in late winter to early spring, this will only course and continually be sure to communicate with owners, club make matters worse. members, and club officials about the conditions that exist on the In an ideal world, it would have been great to get out and break golf course. It is also worth mentioning what might be happening the ice that formed during the ice storm that occurred during to turf, and what impacts the weather might have on winter survival wintermission. It was quite easy to break up the ice layer at that and turf conditions in the spring. ■ point. During the winter of 2009-2010, many people removed ice with aerifiers starting sometime between day 30 and day 45 after ice Pamela Charbonneau cover formed. My recollection is that they reported mixed results. OMAFRA Turfgrass Specialist, Another strategy is to blow off snow and apply a dark fertilizer, The Guelph Turfgrass Institute such as Milorganite, over top of the ice layer as soon as possible. Guelph, Ontario Blake McMaster, retired superintendent at Royal Montreal Golf Email: pamela.charbonneau@ontario.ca Club, reported good results with this technique. FURTHER READING AND REFERENCES: Beautiful. Winter, p. 8-10. Bertrand, A, Y. Castonguay, A. Azaiez and J. Dione. 2013. Low-temperature stress. In: Stier, J.C., B.P Rochette, R, J. Dionne, Y. Castonguay, and Y. Desjardins. 2006. Atmospheric composition under Horgan and S.A. Bonos, editors, Turfgrass: Biology, Use, and Management. Agron. Monogr. 56. impermeable winter golf green protections. Crop Sci. 46:1644-1655. ASA, CSSA, and SSSA, Madison, Wl. p. 279-318. Tompkins, D.K., J.B. Ross, and D.L. Moroz. 2004. Effects of ice cover on annual bluegrass and Castonguay, Y, G. Thibault, P. Rochette, A. Bertrand, S. Rochefort, and J. Dionne. 20019. Physiological creeping bentgrass putting greens. Crop Sci. 44:2175-2179 responses of annual bluegrass and creeping bentgrass to contrasted levels of 02 and C02 at low Lastly, I will continue to blog on the weather conditions as they unfold at www.onturf.wordpress.com. temperatures. Crop Sci.49:671-689. Follow the blog and the comments from superintendents. You can also follow my comments on Charbonneau, P. 2010. The plunder down under - what to expect when spring comes. Green is Twitter @ONturf and tweet about your own thoughts and experience of winter so far. Braemar Building Systems CUSTOM DESIGN QUALITY BUILDINGS COMPETITIVE PRICE! • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • New Buildings • Wood & Steel Structures For your FREE ESTIMATES call usât 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com ABOVE THE HOLE A Well-Rounded Experience ransitioning back to university is not an easy task. I’m 28 years T old and I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t nervous when I started my journey back in September. Experience is such a big factor in our young turf careers, and once you begin working, it is tough to convince yourself to go back to university. For 9 ways to Healthy Turf those of you in management positions, it is imperative that the value of a well-rounded education is portrayed to your younger, respond® 3 grows your turf health aspiring superintendents. While it is easy to push the importance of a good education, there is much more to a post-secondary from the roots up education than simply getting good marks. When I first arrived here at the University of Guelph, I had Increased depth of water penetration: one goal in mind; work hard to get the best marks I can, get that coveted piece of paper, and leave. No one can really blame me 1 Increases rooting depth though. We all know it isn’t cheap to attend university and all 2 Aids survival in drought conditions I could think about was getting back to making some money. I told myself that I was going to hibernate and make sure that I 3 Favours deeper rooting grasses stayed focused on my academics, since this was the only thing that mattered in my mind at the time. It was only a couple weeks Water soaks in more evenly: into my program that I realized that this probably is not the only thing I should be focusing on. Cue my epiphany. While I am still 4 Avoids puddling very focused on my studies, I am starting to realize that a large 5 Helps with drainage component of a good education in the turf industry includes focusing on everything that goes on outside of the classroom. More even water distribution/retention: The number of ways to get involved during your post­ secondary education is endless. Heading out for some grub 6 Better use of water may reduce the need with your classmates is a great way to get your name out there. We have 37 people in our graduating class of 2015 and there for irrigation could not be a better way to help get your name out there than 7 Improved turf colour to mingle with 37 future colleagues. You never know who you might end up working with and a healthy mix of socializing Reduction in the symptoms of localized dry spot: with your fellow ‘turfies’ and extra-curricular activities can go a long way toward becoming truly educated. 8 More even playing surface Do not be afraid to get involved in as many activities as you can. Long after graduation, continuing education is critical to 9 Healthier turf our success as turf managers so we may as well make use of what is available to us during our time at university. Turf club is a great Grow your turf health way to share ideas and information with fellow classmates and meet numerous industry professionals along the way. Student from the roots up with committees allow you a chance to see how formal meetings are conducted and give you insight into how your program is run. Industry conferences and trade shows are also a great way to network and meet new people in turf. The only way for us to truly learn and educate ourselves is to push our limits and be involved wherever possible. You will thank yourself later. ■ Chris Copeman, 2nd Assistant Ontario & Maritimes: 1-800-265-5444 Superintendent, ADTM Student at UofG West: 1-800-561-5444 Deerhurst Resort, Huntsville, Ontario BC: 1-604-534-8815 Email: c.copeman1@gmail.com Quebec: 1-800-361-9369 www.uap.ca www.deerhurstresort.com Always read and follow label directions. Respond 3 is a registered trademark of Loveland Products. Inc. OFF THE FAIRWAY First Impressions Set the Tone irst impressions are very important and far reaching in the F golf and horticulture industry. A first impression begins as a feeling, then a judgement, and finally develops into an attitude. We want to encourage a positive attitude as a result of the visually appealing landscape before the golfers even set foot on the golf course itself. The goal then is for it to continue throughout their entire experience on the property. We all want our members and guests to be happy when they hit the first tee. There are many factors that affect a golfer’s attitude leading up to the first hole. Some of which we can control, such as property aesthetics, and other aspects that we as part of property maintenance cannot, such as poor service or inclement weather. In this article I will cover how the result of a first impression, whether positive or negative, has a ripple effect throughout your club, as well as give you some strategies for your front entrance, around buildings and parking lots and suggest how you can maintain these areas effectively. The ripple effect that comes from a The ripple effect that comes from a first impression can go first impression can go as far as affecting as far as affecting the revenue of your club. How can this be you might ask? Every golfer, whether consciously or not, does the revenue of your club. a cost analysis of whether your property is giving them good value for their dollar. Regardless of how they play that day, if a golfer starts off his or her round with a negative first impression, to the first tee with a high aesthetic standard. usually the first thing to be blamed is the conditioning of the Once the golfers are past the entrance, the next round of golf course. If conditions are considered to be below standard, first impressions begins in the parking lot, around the pro shop they are likely to chalk up a list of negatives. If they feel they and any other buildings that they may go to on their way to the aren't getting value and expectations aren't being met, you can first tee. This perpetuates the positive attitude we are shaping as be assured that this will be followed by spending less on pro shop they make their way throughout the property. Some suggestions purchases, beverages and dining. Subsequently, this negative for these areas include using ornamental grasses around first impression can affect their decision to return, bring guests, areas like parking lots because they are highly effective and and it may even encourage them to spread their disappointment very successful plant material due to the hot and dry growing by word of mouth. Managers and superintendents alike want to conditions surrounding asphalt, concrete and reflection off of keep the revenue flowing and guests coming back. buildings. It is very important when landscaping and planting It's important to remember that we are selling an entire golf around buildings that you match the building colour with experience, not just a round of golf. With this in mind, why not complimentary flower colours. The gardens are not a detached wrap the product in something that excites the recipient to open entity, they are connected in the visual framework of the viewer’s it? This can be done very easily with professionally designed and mind. You want to create an atmosphere and an impression that maintained landscaping, beginning at the entrance to the club. will make your golfers enjoy coming back and spending time on If you are selling the same product as your neighbour, one of the property. the components that is going to set you apart is your packaging. As you can see, the attitude that your client base develops A well designed and maintained front entrance that is critical to the long term success of the golf club. Some of commands the golfers’ attention will evoke a feeling of interest the benefits of this approach include an improved backdrop and curiosity as to what the rest of the course holds. This is for future advertising material, repeat visits and increased where their impression and attitude begin. Some of the key membership. You can also boost spending on the property with design elements to consider are proportions, signage location, this approach as well. The first impressions that your course colours, and aesthetic vantage points. Using bright warm colours gleans have an impact extending beyond visual appeal. Once and contrasting sizes as well as textures can be very aesthetically you recognize the importance of having a strong, positive first pleasing. This is an area where annual layering will give you the impression, you will reap the rewards. ■ best bang for your buck due to all season interest. Every detail of your front entrance should be perfect because it represents how the rest of the property is perceived to be maintained. Dead Chris Cumming CLP, Horticulturist heading, healthy plant material, clean sharp edges, as well as Muskoka Lakes Golf and Country Club constantly cultivating a rich dark soil or using dark mulch will Port Carling, Ontario provide a great contrast to the plant material in the garden and Email: Chriscumming@live.ca to the surrounding turf or retaining walls. It is very important to Tel: 705-765-3165 maintain areas like these to the utmost. We want to lead golfers Cell: 705-644-3994 THE STANDARD IN GRUB CONTROL JUSTGOT EVEN BETTER • A New Formulation allows for less dust with more Merit GRANULAR uniform coverage • New packaging that’s easier to handle and store • The same proven high level of efficacy you can trust Another Innovation from Bayer www.bayeres.ca For more information on Merit Granular and the complete line of Bayer products, contact Bayer. 1-888-283-6847 ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. Merit is a registered trademark of Bayer. ON THE ROAD AGAIN Gardens with Punch on a Budget Crunch ’11 be the first to admit, when it came to all living plant material says Angela. “Also, some courses don’t have huge I “off the fairways”, I could barely differentiate between a ground ivy and impatiens. As an assistant superintendent, I always did formal gardens and don’t need an onsite gardener.” Angela will work on design elements for clients during my best to help out our gardener and provide assistance when winter months and then assist these clients throughout the needed, but for the most part, I stayed as far away as possible. summer by either working with full-time staff or students to To stray from my realm of comfort - all things relating and bring the proposed vision to fruition. “I will work on a part pertaining to the upkeep of a monocot mowed at two inches or time basis with my client’s staff during the golf season to help less - into the world of dicots clearly stretched my horticultural give them direction which ensures the work is being completed knowledge to its limit. properly,” says Angela. Fortunately, at my previous employment, we had a very Similar to the current trend where golf course superintendents competent gardener who took care of all of our “off the fairway” are embracing efficiency and sustainability initiatives, so does areas so we didn’t have to. That being said, in my recent travels, Angela’s design philosophy. From irrigation to plant selection, I have noticed a trend at some of our local golf courses - the everything is scrutinized before it goes in the ground. “Due to absence of a head gardener on staff. I am told that for various cost, the industry is moving towards the selection of perennials reasons, it is a position that is getting increasingly difficult to fill. over annuals as the latter can account for up to half a designated Fear not however, this is where Angela Bartlett fits in. budget. This does not take into consideration the extra labour After graduating from the University of Guelph with a degree involved in caring for these annuals. Also, wiser irrigation choices, in horticulture, Angela embarked on a co-op at Banff Springs such as drip irrigation, to help conserve water and drought Golf Club and soon fell in love with caring for golf courses. Banff tolerant plants can also help reduce budgetary constraints.” Springs became a launching In Angela’s opinion, the current philosophy is to get away from pad for stints at Westmount lavish, formal, annual gardens as they do not fit in on golf courses, Golf Club, The Board of Trade or, more importantly, do not adhere to the low maintenance Golf Club (now known as The approach. “These aren’t botanical gardens after all,” says Angela. Country Club) and Oakdale “Spend the money wisely in high visibility areas such as the Golf Club. Fast forward a few clubhouse or halfway house. A garden at every tee is too much years later and now Angela acts work, very hard to maintain and eventually loses its appeal.” as a horticultural consultant for So there you have it. If, like me, where the thought of having a half dozen or so golf courses in to care for gardens makes you nervous, don’t sweat it. Help could the GTA who do not have a head just be a phone call away. With a little luck, there is an Angela gardener in place. When asked Bartlett at a golf course near you. ■ why some clubs do not have a gardener on staff, Angela points to the seasonality of the position Paul Grotier and budgetary constraints as Direct Solutions - A Division of AAT contributing factors. “It’s not Phone: (416) 508-6115 easy to fill an eight to ten month position, and, as we all know, Email: pgrotier@agriumat.com budgets are being cut, which www.turfpro.ca includes gardening budgets,” David C. Smith, P.Ag., C.G.C.S. 185 Oriole Crescent www.mastersturfsupply.com Soil & Turfgrass Consultant Gravenhurst, Ontario P1P1C6 P.O.Box 629 Office: 519-510-TURF (8873) Office (705) 687-SOIL (7645) 80 William St. W. Fax:519-510-8875 Fax (705) 687-3518 Toll Free 1 -888-607-TURF (8873) Harriston, ON, NOG 1Z0 Email: mastersturf@wightman.ca Cell (905) 512-6004 dave@dcsturf.com LOOKING BACK Forty Years Ago Today n 1974, the O.G.S.A. was Stuart Mills helped make ice for the I celebrating its 50th Anniversary. The Board of Directors were Bob Canadian Curling Championships in London and Helmut Kopp won a gold Heron (president), Paul Dermott medal at the Hotdog Championships (vice), Al Beeney (secretary), Whitey at Blue Mountain. Jones, Bob Hall, John Stoughton, The February monthly meeting See us for all Cameron Cairncross, Carl Bennett, Helmut Kopp, Paul Scenna, Jim was held at Uplands Golf Club in Fertilizer, Plant Thornhill and was hosted by Helmut Wyllie (past president), and Ross Kopp. It was a combined skiing, Protection and Haines (newsletter editor). business and lecture meeting. Other Seeding needs monthly meetings were held at North NEW MEMBERS: Halton, Bayview, Galt, P.G.A. National Members joining the O.G.S.A. that and Oshawa. year were Ken Wright, Nor thwood Custom Blending Golf and Country Club, Wendell The G.C.S.A.A. Conference Dyment, Big Cedar Golf and Country and Show was held in Anaheim Club, Dave Dick, Sleepy Hollow Golf California and the R.C.G.A. Turfgrass Proven Controlled Conference and Show was held in Club and Gerry Laferriere, Garion Winnipeg, Manitoba. Release Nitrogens Golf Club in Sudbury. Annual dues were increased from $20.00 to $30.00 Superintendents met weekly at the per year. Centennial Arena in Etobicoke for Golf& Landscaping hockey. Blake McMaster, Gormley Products ON THE MOVE: Green, Bruce Lewis, Georgetown, Sam DiPinto, of the Lido Golf Centre, Whitey Jones, Aurora, Helmut Kopp, accepted the superintendent position Uplands, Carl Bennett, Oakville, Paul at the Beverley Golf Club. Steve Dermott, Islington and Bob Heron, Miller moved from being Assistant at Markland Wood, all participated. the Toronto Board of Trade Country Minimum wage was $1.65 per hour Club to Superintendent at Dundas for a student under 18. Working Valley Golf Club. Jack Harris retired under 28 hours was $1.90 per hour for from the Hamilton Golf Club and a learner during his first month and started building his own club called $2.00 per hour for general employees. Knollwood Golf Course. Stuart Mills moved from London Highland Golf 8112 KING RD.WEST TOURNAMENTS: BOLTON, ONTARIO L7E5T3 Club to Hamilton Golf Club. Graham On August 9th, the Pro-Superintendent Shouldice took over as superintendent Toll Free: 1-800-268-4425 Golf Tournament was held at the at the Highland Golf Club. Brampton Golf Club with Ross Haines Tel: 905-857-2000 as host. Fax:905-857-8215 IN MEMORANDUM: The O.G.S.A. held its 50th Taylor Barnes passed away in March alisona@agri-turf.ca Anniversary Golf Tournament at and Norm MacDonald, a former Lambton Golf and Country Club with Superintendent at York Downs Golf Jim Wyllie as host. ■ Club, also passed away. www.allianceagri-turf.com EVENTS: The Fourth Annual Turfgrass Barry Endicott Symposium of the O.G.S.A. was held Retired Golf Course on January 3rd at the Lambton Golf Superintendent and Country Club with host Jim Wyllie. Brampton, Ontario Seventy-five people attended and Keith Tel: 905-846-1440 Nesbit was the Session Chairman. barry.endicott@gmail.com TURF OR CONSEQUENCES Making Golf Fun by Doug Breen, Superintendent on a golf course - the day that your face hurt from laughing. Do Golf North Properties you remember what it cost, what your score was, or how long it took to play? Of course not. ick up any golf magazine. Go to any industry conference. So how can we make golf more fun? Some have suggested that P Turn on the Golf Channel. I guarantee you, that within 10 pages, two seminars, or one hour of air time - someone will we take the “Rock and Bowl” path. Loud music, lights, live bands, glow in the dark golf, shooters on every hole, and turn it into a be waxing eloquently about the state of our industry. They all Coors Light Maxim Party - but that would get stale pretty quickly. conclude that golf is too expensive, too hard, and takes too long I think we need to get back to our roots. I’d begin by eliminating to play. So their recommendations end up being some variation stroke play from recreational golf. Alister MacKenzie wrote in on discounting green fees, dumbing down the game with bigger 1933 that the new “card and pencil set” would destroy the game. holes or shorter yardages, or pushing people around the course He believed (as do I) that match play was a far superior game, in less time by using MMA fighters as marshall/bouncers. I especially for beginners and high handicappers. A bogey golfer disagree. doesn’t get to 90 by being It’s cheaper to play golf one over par, eighteen now than it was when I times. Their scorecard (my was in high school. Sure, scorecard) goes par, bogey, there are high-end public triple bogey, birdie, eight, courses who are charging par... and so on. If you’re more money than we were playing match play, that in the 80’s, but there’s a player has a reasonable ton of buck-a-hole golf out chance of winning any there, and those courses individual hole, or they aren’t full either. Cost-wise, might take a ten, but it it’s actually a great time to only matters for that hole. be a golfer. There are 18 individual Players haven’t suddenly games within the match - found the game too hard. same as tennis, volleyball In fact, it’s never been and a dozen other sports. easier. I had to learn on By contrast, if I take a ten forged irons with a sweet on the 3rd hole in stroke spot the size of a pin head, play, I’m sulking on the cart and used a persimmon for the next three hours, driver that was smaller because my game is over. than a spring potato. With Imagine knowing that you perimeter weighting and couldn’t possibly win the drivers the size of my skull, not to mention ball technology and Stanley Cup because you had one terrible game in October. far better playing conditions - a beginner today has it pretty Would you still be having fun at Christmas? The popularity of darned easy. golf expanded steadily for hundreds of years, until stroke play And I’m not buying the time thing either. Sure, a hockey became the norm, and it started declining within a generation - game is only three hours long, but it takes an hour of driving just sayin’. Never mind that course conditioning (as MacKenzie each way and we go for dinner first. Even a two-hour movie predicted) had to become near perfect, because the “card comes with a dinner before and dessert after. Concerts have and pencil set are forever crying about what is fair, instead of an opening band, Monster Trucks have Pit Parties - so four or accepting the rub of the green.” five hours for an entertainment outing is actually the norm. The goal to making any competitive undertaking fun, is Furthermore, there’s a course within fifteen minutes of pretty to have the outcome in doubt for as long as possible. Ideally, much every house in southern Ontario - so there’s less driving the last putt on the 18th green will matter to the outcome of and no need to leave early to beat the traffic. the match. Match play gives a much greater chance of that We do lots of other things for entertainment that cost more, happening; but there are many other games based on points, are harder to do, and take just as long. I believe that the problem and skins, and scrambles, and partners that accomplish the is that people have tried the game and not come back - because same goal. For the recreational player, stroke play gives the they weren’t having fun. Play by serious golfers is actually on the least potential amount of fun and involvement. When it’s all increase, but play by recreational golfers is in serious decline. said and done, we produce a playing surface for a game. But Why is that? It wouldn’t matter if golf took two hours, was free, recently the popularity of that game at the recreational level and had holes three feet across - if they ain’t having fun, they has waned. I propose that it’s our own fault - we changed the ain’t coming back. Think back to the best time that you ever had game. Let’s change it back. ■ For information on our premium turf products contact your Direct Solutions representative or visit us online at www.aatdirectsolutions.com MEET THE NEW LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION. The new Toro’ Reelmaster’ 3550-D floats effortlessly over contours in fairways and green surrounds. With a productive 208 cm (82 inch) cutting width, turf-friendly tires, the superior traction of a Series/Parallel 3-wheel drive system, and a weight of less than 900 kg (2,000 pounds),* the Reelmaster 3550-D is engineered to make a big impression...without leaving one. See it for yourself by calling your Turf Care Sales Representative to arrange a viewing or look for The Greatest Show on Turf dates on our website at www.turfcare.ca *Gross vehicle weight for standard configuration, including five 46 cm (18 inch) cutting units, with no optional accessories. TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 200 Pony Drive, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 7B6 T: 905-836-0988 | F: 905-836-6442 TURF CARE Helping your business grow. London: 519-668-7664 Scarborough: 416-298-2101 Mississauga: 905-836-0988 x5404 ©2013 The Toro Company. All rights reserved. Ottawa: 613-821-1880