Green is Fall 2015 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association Lebovic Golf Club Takes Root A New Build 25 Years in the Making ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Creating a Classic Through Team Camaraderie U of G Update: Research Could Lead to More Options Money, Money, Money - Solutions to Rising Labour Costs CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS . MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1L OH2 Committed to You... Our dedicated team of nine turf professionals will work with you to identify and implement the very best in agronomic programs. We search for innovative, high performance products and with our added knowledge we bring solutions to help address your challenges. We believe adding our expertise to yours creates a winning formula. Whitetail Crossing GolfClub, Mundare,AB For more information visit brettyoung.ca or call toll-free at 800-665-5015 Ontario: Everett Nieuwkoop 519-688-4397 Thunder Bay/NW Ontario: Joe Chartrand 204-212-0226 Brett Young is a trademark of Brett-Young Seeds Limited. PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Green is s the year draws to a close, so does my tenure as OGSA Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association A President. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as a Director, and particularly this past year as President. The Editor experience has been made even more rewarding by all those Justin Parsons Board members I have worked with, both past and present, and justinparsons@engageagro.com I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved. I am quite confident that the direction of the association is Publisher & Advertising Manager in good hands with the exceptional individuals I have come Terry Davey by John McLinden to know over the years. As always, I’d like to extend an extra terry@blenheim.ca OGSA President special thank you to Sally Ross and the office staff at the OGSA Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 for their tireless and dedicated efforts. Administration Manager Sally and I attended the CGSAs meeting in Jasper Alberta this past September, Diane Davey where results of their national consultations were reported. The CGSA went diane@blenheim.ca through this process in order to identifying services that are of prime importance Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 103 to their membership and assure that their redesign process is aligned with their members needs. Production & Design The OGSA will be holding a strategic plan review that will be facilitated by Jeanette Thompson GCSAA representatives this month. This is a complimentary service offered by the jeanettethompson@mac.com GCSAA, which is a benefit of our affiliation with them. It will help us evaluate our Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 progress since we created the plan in 2011, make modifications, and assure we align Green is Beautiful is published four times our activities with our members requirements. a year (November / March / June / August) I am looking forward to seeing many of you at the upcoming conference in Toronto. by Blenheim INK for: Let’s hope that winter will be kind to us this year. I wish you all the best for the upcoming holiday season, and thank you again for your support. ■ Providing engineering solutions Ontario Golf Superintendents' to Ontario’s Golf industry. Association Sally Ross, Executive Manager Engineering Design & Consulting Services Guelph Turfgrass Institute Land Development & Approval Assistance 328 Victoria Road South Permit & Regulatory Agency Approval Assistance Guelph, ON N1L0H2 Irrigation & Drinking Water Supply Strategies Tel: 519-767-3341 Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Strategies Toll Free: 877-824-6472 GPS Surveying & Mapping Services Fax:519-766-1704 Email: manager@ogsa.ca 30 Centurian Dr. Suite 100 Markham, Ontario L3R 8B8 Phone 905 475 1900 Fax 905 475 8335 www.scsconsultlnggroup.com www.ogsa.ca Premium Products Published by Blenheim INK Administration Office: for all Your Turf Needs 503-5340 Lakeshore Road Burlington, ON L7L 7A8 PO Box 7, Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z6 Production Office: Tel: 519-886-0557 1727 King Street East, Fax: 519-886-0605 Cambridge, ON N3H 3R6 1-800-465-5849 Toll Free: 1-877-618-8696 www.oscturf.com Fax:519-340-0293 www.blenheim.ca INSIDE THIS ISSUE INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ALMACK AGRONOMIC SERVICES INC. 30 AQUATROLS www.aquatrols.com BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 29 www.braemarbuildings.com BRETTYOUNG 2 www.brettyoung.ca DCS AGRONOMIC SERVICES 13 DOUGLAS WOOD LARGE TREE SERVICE 28 www.douqlaswood.ca EVERGRO 18 16 Feature: FAST FOREST 25 www.fastforest.ca Lebovic Golf Club Takes Root A New Build 25 Years in the Making GREEN HORIZONS GROUP OF FARMS 11 www.JustSodit.com In This Issue MANA QUALI-PRO 22 www.quali-pro.ca 8 Alex McClumpha Memorial 12 U of G Update: Tournament Recap Research Could Lead ONTARIO SEED COMPANY 3 to More Options www.oscturf.com 9 OGSA Assistants Tournament Recap 20 Creating a Classic Through RD. SOLUTIONS 27 Team Camaraderie www.pdsolutions.ca 10 Money, Money, Money The Creation of Cabot Cliffs Rising Labour Costs Force Golf Course, Cape Breton Island SCS CONSULTING GROUP LTD. 3 Supers To Do More with Less www.scsconsultinggroup.com Regular Contributors TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 5,32 www.turfcare.ca 3 President's Message 24 Best of the Blogs TURF PROFESSIONALS CHOICE 25 www.tpcsand.com 5 Editorial Message 25 Health & Safety UNITEDAGRI PRODUCTS INC. 21 1 4 Member Profile 26 Off the Fairway www.uap.ca Leasha Schwab, Superintendent, Bushwood Golf Club 29 Looking Back ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 26 14 Golf Course Highlight www.zandersod.com Bushwood Golf Club 30 Turf or Consequences GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL GREEN IS BEAUTIFUL 2015 Green is EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Although every effort is made to check material Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Justin Parsons Kevin Kobzan for publication, the association is not responsible Alan Dolick Reg Langen for material published on behalf of its contributors. Cam Shaw Cory Janzen All rights are reserved by the publisher and any ON THE COVER reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Hole #5, Lebovic Golf Club Although some trade names may be mentioned Photo courtesy: OGSA is committed to serving its members, in articles contained in this publication, no Kevin Pleasance, Assistant advancing their profession, and enriching endorsement is intended or implied by the Superintendent the quality of golf and its environment. Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. Lebovic GolfClub EDITORIAL MESSAGE here was a time, not long ago, when ed out that this is not something that is unique to our province or T a new golf course opening in Ontario even our country. I’m not going to elaborate on this further here was no big deal. In fact, it was expected.since I am by no means an expert, but one thing that has drasti­ Through much of the 1990s and into the cally changed since the heyday of golf course building a couple of early part of the 2000’s, we came to expect decades ago is labour. multiple new builds all over the province Not only is it more difficult to find reliable help from the stu­ every year. Fast forward to 2015 and the dent crop, but the cost of that help has gone up dramatically. thought of a brand new 18-hole facility Long gone are the days when a bunker raker made $6.40 per opening is as rare as a hole-in-one. hour. The province has increased minimum wage on multiple by Justin Parsons, With this in mind, we at Green Is Beau­ occasions since 2004 and business owners have been left scram­ Engage Agro Corp. tiful wanted to capture the efforts of the bling to adjust. As Robert Thompson’s article points out, this has team at Lebovic Golf Club in Aurora, who a profound impact on turf maintenance facilities and their ability have been working tirelessly for over a quarter century to open to deliver the playing conditions expected on budget. the doors. This will become a reality in 2016, as the club is cur­ Labour has always represented the biggest operating expense rently putting the finishing touches on golf course and facility for superintendents so naturally, any wage increase is going to be construction. felt. When there are five wage hikes in just over ten years and Superintendent Colin Young and his team have been going budgets are, in some cases, decreasing, things can get tricky. hard at the grow-in for over two years now and the net result is This is just one of several new challenges that have developed a golf course that looks fantastic, and a design by Doug Carrick since the most recent golf course building boom. The one thing that has a lot of intrigue. that continues to amaze though, is the creativity and resourceful­ Of course there are many reasons as to why there has been a ness of superintendents. No matter what challenges emerge, they slowdown in new golf course construction and it should be point­ always seem to find a way to overcome it. ■ The most advanced, most durable and most flexible irrigation products. Built for today’s golf courses. The right choice. 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We are now at the stage where reminders are Joel Johnston Class C being sent out for unpaid dues. If you Redtail Golf Course have not already paid your dues, please go online to pay, or call the office to arrange Meagan Nunn Class F payment. Thank you to all those members Taboo Resort, Golf & Spa who have paid promptly as it helps to cut Tom Quackenbush Class A down on the amount of time we spend each year doing collections. Rainbow Ridge Golf Course If any of your personal or employment Brooks Young Class A information has changed, we do ask that Shelburne Golf & Country Club you contact the office immediately or update your online profile. Class changes OGSA PresidentJohn McLinden presents a Turfgrass Canada, chequefor $20,000.00 to Dr. Brenda Nailor, must be done by the office. Questions or A Division of Residex Class E Research Chair ofthe Ontario Turfgrass Research concerns? Please call us, we are here to help. Foundation, on behalfofthe OGSA membership. CONFERENCE REGISTRATION by OGSA President John McLinden. to the Chapter at the upcoming GCSAA All OGSA members are entitled to Hunter is a Nova Scotia Duck Trolling AGM. If anyone wishes to express their member pricing when registering for the Retriever, and is under a year old. If you opinion or has any concerns regarding the upcoming joint conference. Each week are heading out to the GIS, don’t forget candidates that the OGSA will support we will include the codes to acquire the to vote for Hunter at the Lebanon Turf for election to the GCSAA Board, or member pricing in Clippings. If you need Booth because as in the past, any monies any other agenda items that will be assistance or experience any problems received by the OGSA will be directed voted upon at the GCSAA AGM, please please call us. As always, we urge that you towards local humane societies. contact Mark or the OGSA office prior register early. to December 31, 2015. Details will be OGSA ANNUAL posted on our website. "GOING TO THE DOGS" - GENERAL MEETING VOTE FOR "HUNTER" AT THE GIS The OGSA Annual General Meeting ASSOCIATES COMMITTEE Once again this year we have an is scheduled for 7:00 am on Thursday, AND CONFERENCE Ontario dog in the Lebanon Turf Dog January 14, 2016 at the Metro Toronto PLANNING FOR 2017 Calendar. It is the beautiful Hunter from Convention Centre, North Building, The Associates committee met this Ladies Golf Club of Toronto, owned Constitution Hall, Room 105. past October and reviewed plans for our Annual reports and financial statements ‘new format’ conference coming up in will be provided at the meeting. If you are January 2017. They gave input into the unable to attend, our annual report will be format of the supplier luncheon event provided to all members with the winter being held on the middle day of the issue of Green is Beautiful, and will be conference. They also discussed how to available online. format some of the available sponsorships Official notice of the meeting and any in order to provide a good return on accompanying information will be posted investment for our members. Members on our website. of the committee have agreed to talk to as many industry members throughout GCSAA CHAPTER the coming summer about the new DELEGATES MEETING format, what it will mean to them and OGSA Vice-President Mark Prieur what advantages it will provide. represented the OGSA at the GCSAA Our committee members are: Corrie Chapter Delegates meeting held in Almack, John Alpaugh, Angelo Capanelli, Lawrence, Kansas this past October and Paul Cooper, Kevin Falls, Mark Scenna will be carrying the vote for all OGSA and Chair, Marie Thorne. ■ members who have assigned their vote Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament Recap by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Director onday, October 5th dawned cool and drizzly, but the rain M held off and it ended up being a great day for the 80 golfers registered. Markland Wood GC was in spectacular shape. Special thanks go out to host superintendent Owen Russell, his assistant Ben White, head mechanic Mike Gavanski, and both Dan Macallum and Tyler Forbes. With the beautiful greens running fast, the golfers were challenged. OGSA Secretary/Treasurer Scott White acted as emcee for the dinner, introducing OGSA Board Members who were present as well as Kevin Doyle, our field service representative from the GCSAA. Following an outstanding meal, Scott presented the host superintendent plaque to Owen, thanked the members of Markland Wood for allowing us to host our tournament there, as well as General Manager Alfredo Colalillo, Executive Chef Nicolas Comazzi, and all the club house and catering staff. He made special mention of Head Golf Professional Frank Mirando and Associate Golf Professional Robert Brown for contributing to Ron Craig, TurfCare Products (right) presents the George Darou Trophy to Duane the great day experienced by everyone who participated. Schmitdzfrom Woodstock Meadows GolfClub. Scott then went on to give a special thank you to those companies who supported the event with sponsorship and specialty prizes. BrettYoung Seeds, Evergro Division (Crop Production Low Net for Flight A went to Alan Dolick with a 67, however, Services), Syngenta and Turf Care Products for their support of the Alan had departed and so a random draw took place for his prize. George Darou Trophy. Companies who provided prizes were also Low Net for Flight B went to Kevin Doyle. acknowledged; Duke Equipment Ltd (GC), Turf Canada, Vanden Other special mentions, for Flight A, Jordan Barber, Paul Bussche Irrigation, Bayer Environmental Science and Enviro-Sol White, Matt Legg and Erik Vaughn, and for Flight B, Kevin Professional Turf Products. Holmes, Ed Guziak, James Raynor and Dennis Kim. The first time winner of the George Darou Trophy was Duane Winners of the hole in one and closest to the pin prizes were Schmidtz from Woodstock Meadows GC, who had a low gross Vito Cirone, Jesse Booker, Tyler Forbes, Rob Ackermann and score of 83. Duane was thrilled to take home the Toro snowblower, Scott Hunte. presented to him by Ron Craig from Turf Care Products. Scott White concluded his duties as emcee and announced that Low Gross Superintendent winner for Flight A was Brad Bell the 70th Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament, our oldest and with a 78 and Jason D’Andrea shot a 75, which gave him the Low most storied event, will take place at Whitevale Golf Club next year, Gross for Flight B. on Monday, October 3rd, hosted by Superintendent, Blair Rennie. ■ OGSA Secretary/Tmeasurer Scott White (left) presents Scott White (right) presents the Low Netfor Flight B Scott White (right) presents the Low Grossfor Flight A the host superintendentplaque to Superintendent Owen award to Kevin Doyle, Field Service Representative award to Brad Bellfrom Lakeview GolfCourse. Russellfrom Markland Wood from the GCSAA. OGSA Assistants Tournament Recap by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Director he OGSA Assistants Tournament T was held on August 17th at Mill Run Golf Club in Uxbridge, Ontario. It was a scorching day with temperatures reaching close to 40 C with the humidex. 84 players braved the heat and enjoyed the great conditions at Mill Run. The winning team was Aaron Weinberg (Oakville GC), Mike Kehoe (Nutrite), Jeremy Phillips (Turf Care Products) and Jason George (Wooden Sticks Golf). The ladies had quite a showing by capturing both of the longest drive prizes. Jasmine Halk (Briars GC) won a $250 Left to Right: Winners ofthe OGSA Assistants Best Buy gift card donated by Zander Tournament, Jason George (Wooden Sticks Golf), Aaron Sod Co Ltd., and Amanda Frend (Ladies Weinberg (Oakville GolfClub), Mike Kehoe (Nutrite), andJeremy Phillips (TurfCare Products). GC of Toronto) won a set of Bluetooth headphones donated by Turfgrass Canada. Josh Vlasic (Bayview G&CC) won a $250 Pro Shop gift card donated by Syngenta for draw was also held to award the additional a closest to the pin prize, and Cam Shaw prizes that were donated. (Piper’s Heath GC) was “closest to the Ken Tilt (Trafalgar G&CC) took over reel and keg” and won The Keg, LCBO the organization of the tournament this and Beer Store gift cards totalling $250, year and also acted as emcee, thanking donated by Vanden Bussche Irrigation. everyone for their participation and Assistants Tournament hosts, Superintendent Rod Special thanks to our specialty hole support, and also thanking the club for Speake (left) andAssistantJeffHewittfrom Mill Run sponsors for their support. GolfClub. their outstanding hospitality. Traditionally, our associate members Away from the pressures of their have strongly supported this event and this winner of the random draw was John respective clubs, the assistants were year was no exception. Evergro and Turf Adach from Islington GC. grateful for the outstanding day provided Care Products sponsored at the Gold level. Because of the support of all these by the venue and the generous sponsors, Special thanks to Sean Lavin (Turf Care) companies, not only did every assistant and it was obvious that every participant for running the putting contest during the member receive a great prize, but a random enjoyed their day at Mill Run. ■ round and braving the extreme heat. The contest winner was Ryan Marangoni from Brantford G&CC. Silver sponsors were Allturf Ltd., Seniors Tournament Engage Agro, Bayer, Plant Products, BASF, GC Duke Equipment, and Club Car, with OSC and Nutrite sharing a silver sponsorship. Prize donations were also received from many of our cash sponsors listed above, as well as Podolinsky Turf Equipment, Hutcheson Sand and Mixes, Master’s Turf and BrettYoung Seeds, Fairmount Santrol - Lakeshore Sand Co, Plant Science Inc. and Chris Nelson, and Burnside Golf Services. Courtney White, representative from The Personal Insurance, was also on hand at registration where participants filled out a ballot to win a set of speakers. The OGSA Seniors once again had a great day out at Mono Hills on August 6,2015. Money, Money, Money Rising labour costs force superintendents to be creative and do more with less By Robert Thompson “When we opened Bill [Searle, the club’s owner] thought we’d have no problem drawing kids from the surrounding area,” says Booker. “But andy Booker remembers the days nearly a the labour pool was not as big as we thought.” R decade ago when Otter Creek Golf Club opened. The club had big aspirations, with the Hiring, as it turns out, was always a challenge for the rural course. The locals were often employed by farms and made more than the club goal of becoming a top tier public course with was offering, often by a few dollars per hour more. conditioning and a green free that matched. It Now Booker has a problem facing many clubs. His staff has been wanted Booker, its superintendent, to pull out all slashed by as much as half from when the club opened, and even then the stops in offering a premium golf experience. finding the right people to fill the needed roles is a problem. That meant 18 staff helped Booker maintain the Randy Booker, Truthfully finding appropriate labour is a key issue facing many sprawling course located in a rural area southwest Superintendent Ontario turf operations. The rising minimum wage and the battle for of Brantford. But the market never developed employees willing to work long hours with early mornings is really quite as expected, and now Booker employs half the number on his challenging many clubs. And with minimum wage tied to the rate of crew that he initially utilized. inflation, the challenge of finding and retaining turf employees is not That’s only part of his issue. Even finding that many employees in going away any time soon. an area located a half hour from the next large urban labour pool has “I would say within the last five years it has become a hurdle. gotten worse and worse,” says Keith Bartlett, the superintendent at St. Georges Golf and Country Club in Etobicoke. “For a while there we had a nice pool of guys, but some moved on and some have been hired at higher rates.” Many of the problems for some clubs stem from the rise in minimum wage, which Keith Bartlett, jumped to $11.25 in April, with the rate tied Superintendent to inflation. Minimum wage for students rose to $10.55. Ontario’s minimum wage has jumped almost $4 from $7.45 in 2005 to the current rate. At the same time clubs have not seen increases in operating budgets, and in fact many have shrunk. Now many clubs have to pay above minimum wage to capture strong seasonal workers to maintain their clubs and are facing competition for these employees from other businesses seeking manual labourers. And these businesses can often pay more. “It is one of those things where you’d get kids looking for work and all of a sudden it just tried up,” says Tyler Ruest, superintendent How To Find And Retain Turf Employees t a time when courses are struggling to Seventy dollars put back in their pockets comes out new staff. Often leads come from students A find and keep their best turf employees, clubs have become creative when it comes to down to spending it on food." TAP INTO GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS who have roommates they are willing to vouch for, and among his staff working jobs after finding ways to locate solid staff. Here are a retiring, sometimes it is social connections that Look to the government to help. couple of suggestions you might consider: lead to new hires. That's the message from GolfNorth's Breen, "My retired guys will often have a buddy BENEFITS? who says his company has significant success they shoot pool with and they'll ask about the St. George's Bartlett says one of the keys going by utilizing student subsidy programs through job at the golf club," Breen says. "Those guys forward could well be offering benefits that Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. are usually reliable and experienced." non-seasonal workers often receive. "It has allowed us to pay more than Student referrals can have their challenges "We need to start offering benefits to staff minimum wage and keep a lot of our seasonal though. members, whether that is dental or drug plans, staff for a few years at a time," he says. "Sometimes we get friends of friends and for seasonal staff who come back," he says. PERSONAL CONNECTIONS they all graduate at the same time so we lose a "What about offering them a TTC pass? Those Often one good employee can lead to others. bunch all at once," he says. ■ are real dollars put back into their pockets. That's been Breen's experience when searching at Dalewood Golf and Curling Club in Port Otter Creek’s numerous sandy hazards. Hope. “For us the [professional golf management “I think golfers are going to have to change their perspective programs] have dried up, and it is almost like a on what is really important to them,” Booker says. “For us it came buyers market for the students.” down to just saying, ‘Screw it—we can’t afford someone to work all Ruest says competition for summer staff the bunkers.’” means he’ll often lose strong employees to other Even at clubs like St. George’s, Bartlett is making decisions on jobs that pay a dollar or two more an hour. But changes to maintenance based on his labour challenges. And Barlett Tyler Ruest, given the downward pressures on many golf is very aware that new capital projects then demand work from his Superintendent clubs, Ruest can’t afford to spend more. staff, which is already under strain. He points to elaborate gardens, “We’ve lost a lot of expertise, while asking which are costly and time consuming to maintain and have little everyone to increase what they do,” he says. “We are down three or four impact on the experience of the golfers at his club. Superintendents employees. At the same time we’re always chasing for more budget need to even consider smaller projects, like tee boxes, and recognize space. Every time we do payroll we’re asking, ‘Where are we now?”’ how they impact their staff. Bardett says it is time to look beyond students given the challenges “When you build a tee make sure you don’t build one with a lot of in locating qualified employees. line trimming needed,” he says. “Make sure it can be cut with a mower.” “We are really struggling and now have to look outside of the golf For Booker, he’s resigned to the fact he’ll need to regularly train course colleges and start attracting people who are landscapers and new staff, that many won’t cut it, and that staffing issues are likely want to do something different,” he says. “We have to look at people an ongoing issue. from different areas and then be willing to train them.” “We can’t compete with the other businesses in the area when it Doug Breen, Superintendent/ChiefAgronomist comes to paying,” he says. “It is a problem that isn’t going away.” ■ at GolfNorth, which runs numerous public golf courses across Ontario, says his company Golf analyst for Global Television, and the bestselling author offive has often struggled to find the right staff, books, Robert Thompson lives in London, Ont. though he notes every market is different. The company, which started in Kitchener/Waterloo, has seen unemployment as low as 2 per cent Doug Breen, Superintendent/ ChiefAgronomist in the region, making it very difficult to staff GolfNorth courses. While summer students fill some jobs, Breen EXPERIENCE says increasingly the company has turned those who have recently retired and are looking for something to keep them occupied. These individuals often aren’t as concerned about money, but enjoy the time spent out of doors and the perks, including free golf, MATTERS Producing, installing and servicing that comes with the jobs. the highest quality sod for golf courses “A vast majority of grounds guys are retired,” Breen says. “They want to get up in the morning and aren’t really doing it for the money. They want to have a little spending cash—sometimes that their wife doesn’t know about—and they get to play some golf. And they might only want to work three days a week. But that works. We might have a fairway guy who only cuts over three days. But he greases his own equipment and always cleans up well.” In the end, some high-end private clubs may simply ante up and pay more to attract the staff they want. Bardett plans on streamlining the demands on his staff so he can free up the salary of one employee and use that money to pay more on an average basis. He’s tired of training staff and losing them to unionized city courses that often pay significandy more, and he adds that perhaps we need to reward employees who are an important part of every course. “We’re asking them to operate $60,000 pieces of equipment and work in 35 degree weather in the rain and work like crazy when the bunkers wash out,” he says. “We’re asking a lot.” Clubs who are either struggling to find employees or who are trying to make due with smaller staffs are facing tough decisions. Booker decided he would simply stop most weekly bunker Serving Ontario and Surrounding Areas maintenance, communicating to regulars that they could simply rake and place the ball if they were unlucky enough to find one of 1-800-367-6995 • GreenhorizonsSod.com U OF G UPDATE Research Could Lead to More Options by Katerina S. Jordan, Associate Professor, University of Guelph build their populations. Her results showed that there were more PPN in greens that were over 20 years of age versus those that were younger here has been some exciting research conducted at the University of (Fig. 1). However, contrary to these findings, we have found that some T Guelph that is relevant to golf course managers throughout Ontario and much of Canada. This summary will outline some of the current samples submitted to our diagnostic laboratory from greens that are only 5-10 years of age are showing high population levels of root­ work in my lab as well as research projects in other labs at the University. knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) and/or cyst nematode (Heterodera My lab group has been conducting turfgrass research at the University spp.). We had not previously considered that nematode feeding might for 10 years now, with a focus on sustainable and low-input turfgrass be causing symptoms of weakened turf on newer creeping bentgrass maintenance. Some of our work has been in weed management, thatch greens but these samples might suggest otherwise. management and general maintenance, We are hoping to continue work on PPN but my focus has shifted to root pathology in golf greens because turfgrass managers over the years. One of my students, Taylor have no chemical management options at Wallace, recently completed a two year study this time. As nematode populations increase that looked at the population dynamics of over time, it is important to understand more plant-parasitic nematodes (PPN) in golf about these pests as golf courses throughout course greens and a new student, Ernest the province age. In addition, we suspect that Urquico, is in the process of studying the nematodes have been present throughout the causal organism of take-all patch (TAP) of years and may be an underlying cause for a creeping bentgrass. number of unexplained symptoms. As the demands of the end users force managers NEMATODE RESEARCH: to push limits of the turfgrass plants even To determine the potential impact of PPN on further, we are starting to see more stress- golf greens, masters student Taylor Wallace related pests becoming problematic. Future sampled greens throughout southwestern work we would like to pursue in my research Ontario, as well as in British Columbia, Quebec, the eastern provinces of New program is to examine low-risk alternatives Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Her results to conventional fumigants and nematicides. indicated that almost every green (out of a Ernest Urquico collecting nematode samples. If a golf course finds that they have high total of 99 greens) had PPN present in the levels of PPN, there are currently only two soils (Table 1). Approximately 25 per cent of greens sampled had nematode main options: focus on cultural practices that aim to reduce stress on the populations that were considered close to or above the damage threshold for turfgrass stand or remove the existing turf, fumigate and re-establish. The certain species, indicating that nematodes may be more of a problem than former would likely be the more desirable option, but it may be difficult originally suspected. to implement the practices needed to reduce symptom development from One ofthe factors that Taylor considered was age ofthe green. Previous PPN feeding without compromising playability. research has shown that there are higher populations of PPN in older In conclusion, we have determined both from Taylors research and greens and it is believed this is because the nematodes have more time to from observations at the diagnostic clinic that although nematodes are Table 1. Percentage of Sites That Tested Positive for Each Nematode Genus Across Canada* Genus British Atlantic Ontario 2013 Ont2014 Quebec2014 Columbia2014 Provinces2014 Ring 81 74 100 70 11 Spiral 68 69 100 100 96 Stunt 87 91 100 93 74 Cyst 29 31 22 26 59 Root-Knot 18 72 85 93 56 Figure 1. Plant-parasitic nematode (PPN) counts in Ontario per 100 cc ofsoil by season and separated by age ofgreen. Values are averaged across all sampling *3 greens were examined from each of 24 courses in Ontario and 3 courses in each of the other regions for a total of 33 courses and 99 sampling sites. sites (n=72) for each season. Young = less than 20 years ofage; Old = 20 years ofage or older. not the number one pest affecting golf course greens, they likely play a of Guelph for well over 20 years, studying turfgrass diseases and helping detrimental role in reducing stress tolerance of the turf on a number of with efficacy testing of various fungicides for numerous diseases including courses. At sites where populations are high, there are no control methods grey and pink snow moulds. His current projects include: assessing how registered for use in turf. Our lab hopes that the research that we are increased carbon dioxide affects resistance to Microdochium nivale, causal conducting will help to develop management plans for nematodes, as well agent of pink snow mould/Fusarium patch (aka Microdochium patch) as facilitate the registration of low-risk products so that turf managers and how creeping bentgrass plants respond to fungal infection. have multiple options should they find that plant-parasitic nematodes are Finally, Dr. Manish Raizada has recently begun research in turfgrass, reducing the quality of their greens. primarily through assessing the potential for bacterial endophytes (organisms that grow within plants and often benefit the host plant) in TAKE-ALL PATCH RESEARCH: reducing fungal diseases, including dollar spot and brown patch, as well The second large-scale turfgrass project in our lab involves the root disease as weed invasion. take-all patch and is the focus of master’s student Ernest Urquico. Over the years I have written numerous articles about this disease, as we find SUMMARY: that it is the most commonly diagnosed disease of turf in our clinic. Most The purpose of this article was to update you on the various research golf courses with primarily creeping bentgrass greens have dealt with TAP projects, many of which are funded by CTRF and OTRF, that are at one point or another, although we find that sites with high soil pH are currently being conducted at the University of Guelph. Should you more likely to develop the disease. Researchers have observed that TAP have any specific questions about specific research projects, please do not rarely persists for more than a few years and becomes less prevalent as hesitate to contact any of the researchers in our program. Alternatively, you greens age. This is believed to be due to a build-up of antagonists in the can visit the OTRF website at www.otrf.ca for more detailed information soil that keep the pathogen in check. However, we have found that on about much of the work going on at the U of G. ■ greens from southwestern Ontario to Alberta, golf courses are experiencing this disease on older (> 15 years) greens. Based on this information, our research is developing ways to manage the disease by various cultural Dr. Katerina S. Jordan, PhD. management practices applicable in high soil pH environments. The first Associate Professor of Turfgrass Science goal has been to confirm that the symptoms and signs (evidence of the Dept, of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph pathogen) we have been observing are indeed caused by the take-all patch kjordan@uoguelph.ca pathogen, Gaeumannomyces graminis var. avenue. We are currently at this stage of the project and once we have confirmation of the causal agent, Ernest will be conducting greenhouse and field studies to assess the effects of various cultural practices, including soil acidification and aerification, on the management of this potentially devastating disease. Future research will examine the soil microbial community to determine whether or not natural antagonism of the pathogen is hindered in alkaline soils. It is our hope that by accurately identifying the causal agent of TAP in Canada, we can devise and recommend cultural and chemical practices for management of this disease. Eventually, we also hope to understand much more about the soil community and various antagonists that are naturally keeping population levels of the pathogen down. PRODUCT TESTING: In addition to our traditional research projects, Dr. Eric Lyons and I also David C. Smith, P.Ag., c.g.c.s do company-funded service research to help businesses get fertilizers and dave@dcsturf.com pest management products registered. We currently have various studies on fertilizer products, as well as products for weed control and moss control. All of these help increase the arsenal that turfgrass managers have Rob Witherspoon, b.sc. m.Sc. at their disposal when making fertility and pest management decisions. rob@dcsturf.com OTHER RESEARCH AT THE GTI: Although this article has focused on the research in my laboratory, there are other researchers who conduct turfgrass research at the University of Guelph. Pam Charbonneau, b.sc. m.sc. Dr. Eric Lyons has graduate students working on a variety of projects, pam@dcsturf.com which include the following: determining the effects of nitrogen rate and mowing height on creeping bentgrass water use, winter hardiness of golf course putting greens, and a cost assessment of natural versus synthetic sports fields. One of his largest projects, however, is helping the Toronto Bluejays Office 705-687-7645 determine whether or not converting to natural grass in the Rogers Centre is practical. In order to help with this, Dr. Lyons’ research group is studying Toll Free 1 -888-607-TURF daily light requirements and water use of a variety of turfgrass species and how microclimates in enclosed stadiums will affect turfgrass health. w ww.dcsturf.com Dr. Tom Hsiang has been conducting turfgrass research at the University GC Highlight Member Profile Bushwood Golf Club 10905 Reesor Road Markham, Ontario, L6B 1A8 Member Since 2011 Tel: 905-640-1233 Leasha@bushwood.ca Leasha Schwab Superintendent, Bushwood Golf Club bushwoodgolf.com by Cam Shaw, Assistant Superintendent, position and make an impression on her new Pipers Heath Golf Club employers. Bill Tran especially took a liking to Schwab, and over the next four seasons, here is no cookie cutter formula, or her gritty attitude and willingness to learn About the Course T certain path one can take which will lead earned her many new opportunities to acquire to a golf course superintendent position. In knowledge under his watchful eye. fact, if you chat with most superintendents, In 2007, Schwab made the move to Bushwood Golf Club boasts an 18 hole managing turf on golf courses wasn’t on their Wyndance Golf Club in Uxbridge. Although championship course, a 9 hole executive course, radar until they woke up in the position. she only stayed for one season, then a bentgrass range tee deck, practice putting There is one certainty however, one constant superintendent, Jake Riekstins made a lasting green, and a lounge with banquet hall. among all superintendents - they got to impression on the young woman. “Jake is one where they are because of hard work. Enter of the most positive and innovative people Established: 1959 Leasha Schwab. This turf girl’s story is not I have ever met. He was always trying new Original Architect: Rene Muylaert; built by dissimilar to most in this industry. Her love things, and he never stopped learning,” states Rene's brother Charlie Muylaert in 1959 of the outdoors and physical labour is what Schwab. In the spring of2008, she graduated attracted her to seasonal employment on a from Algonquin College in Ottawa with a Type of Club: Semi-private golf course, but she never intended for it to diploma in business management. Despite her Number of Holes: 27 become her career. Rewind back to 2003, diploma, she decided to return to Cedarhurst Number of Rounds Annually: Schwab’s first maintenance position was at Golf Club that summer, where she continued Cedarhurst Golf Club, when she was hired as to develop her technical skills under Tran. Championship Course: 25,000 - 30,000 a labourer and junior horticulturalist by Sean In 2009, at the age of 20, Schwab received Executive Course: 12,000 -15,000 Evelyn, then superintendent, and Bill Tran, her first big break when she was offered the Fun Fact: Bubba Watson plays at Bushwood once his assistant. Her experience growing up on assistant’s job at Foxbridge Golf Club in a year and maintains the course record of 61. a farm, and working at her mother’s garden Uxbridge. Schwab admits some hesitation centre in Beaverton helped her excel in this in the venture, as this pursuit was not in her In the Hot Seat When asked if she had any particular challenges proving herself in a male dominated Q: Favourite golf tournament? Q: Best golf experience? industry, she giggles. She states there are both A: The Masters A: The Devil’s Pulpit positives and negatives to being a woman in Q: Favourite piece of turf Q: Ultimate foursome? a man’s world. “I have had challenges in the equipment? A: R.A Dickey, Ryan Gosling and past with staff not willing to take orders from A: Walker Andre Hamann a woman, but they aren’t much trouble because they don’t last long.” She states that there is Q: Favourite golf course? Q: What’s on your iPod right now? also a struggle with people in the industry who A: Wooden Sticks A: 90s, R&B and Country are quick to dismiss her, but she has found that there are more people willing to help her along than those wishing to hold her back. grand life plan, and she was unsure about her remarks Schwab. “Our members love seeing a Schwab claims that she has found a network chances for success in such a male dominated woman operating a mini-excavator, especially of turfies whose help has been instrumental industry. “It was only with the support from when four men are in the bunker hand digging.” to her success, whether it is lending an aerator, my network of peers, previous employers, But small clubs aren’t without their formidable offering advice, or simply giving her the nudge friends and family, that I felt confident enough challenges either. Regular chemical protection she needs to press on. Schwab claims that she to take the position. After I took it, I think is not a luxury her budget can afford, and so she can also be her worst enemy. “I can do anything I phoned Bill every day for help, vent my must find new ways to keep plant health up and a guy can do - but I can get lost in that fight. frustrations and keep me grounded. He was fight disease. At the moment she is playing with Sometimes I need to stop myself and remember very patient and helpfill.” True to her nature, rates of ferrous sulphate as a control for dollar that I don’t need to prove myself anymore, and Schwab rolled up her sleeves and persevered, spot in fairways and is pleased with the results. to stop seeing myself as a woman in a man’s with remarkable success. In 2010, Foxbridge Another challenge she faces is her responsibility world, but rather as a regular superintendent in Golf Club sent Schwab to the Guelph Short to train and oversee the back shop staff. Schwab the turf world.” Course where she received her certificate in had little exposure to the back shop duties before During the long Ontario winters, Leasha turfgrass management. The following season coming to Bushwood, but has embraced the new pursues her true passion in life, travelling. She they offered her the position of golf course opportunity to learn. She attributes much of her has been on some epic journeys backpacking superintendent. She held this position for four adaptability to her former mentors Riekstins and the globe and has lots of stories to tell. She years until March of 2015, when she assumed Tran who taught her to embrace challenges and maintains a travel blog called Boots and the role of superintendent at Bushwood Golf commit to personal growth. Challenges aside, Backpacks (http://bootsandbackpacksbandb . Club in Markham. Schwab states that she is enjoying her new blogspot.ca/) which accounts for many of her In her first year, Schwab implemented a team and golf course immensely. Schwab states remarkable experiences and encounters. “There long range plan to redo many of the outdated there are lots of opportunities for improvement is no better way to find your true self than when bunkers which were full of contaminated sand which will help to reveal the true beauty of the you travel alone,” Schwab admits. Currently and drained poorly. “One of the wonderful property. “I get a lot of help from some key staff she has been to California, Hawaii, Brazil, Pern, things about working at small clubs is that and Chris, my mechanic.” Chris Mitchell has Bolivia, New Zealand and Australia. This you get to do a lot of great projects in house,” been with Leasha since her start at Foxbridge. winter she is planning on backpacking South Schwab is quick to state that if not for Chris, East Asia as well as Bali, while also returning to she would not be where she is today. Although Australia. Indeed this turf girl has come a long Bushwood’s turf staff size is limited, they all way since her start 12 years ago at Cedarhurst. What You Need to Know do their part to get the job done, and Leasha Leasha Schwab serves as an inspiration to other Predominant Grass Type: always makes sure they have some fun along the women in the industry that struggle with the Tees and Fairways: Mix of bent and bluegrass way. If you follow her on Twitter or Instagram dynamic of gender equality, but she also serves Greens: Bent/Poa Type - Push Up (@leashaschwab for both) you’ve seen the as inspiration for those up and comers who Predominant Soil Type: Clay pictures of her crew playing golf, horsing around, work hard and prove themselves everyday as and even attending a Bluejay’s game or two. they wait for their next big break. ■ Course Length: Championship Course: 6,400 yards Executive Course: 1,600 yards Size of Greens: 4 acres Size of Tees: 2.5 acres Size of Fairways: 24 acres Maintenance Challenges Poorly drained, outdated bunkers. Also finding the resources to accomplish the bare minimum Leasha Schwab (center)with her team. agronomic goals (aeration, turf protection etc.) Lebovic Golf Club Takes Root A NEW BUILD 25 YEARS IN THE MAKING Though not officially open until next year, Lebovic Golf Club placed flag sticks in the ground this past summer, and in doing so, became the first 18-hole new build the golf community in Ontario has seen in some time. Perhaps even more remarkable is the fact that this is a project over 25 years in the making. By Justin Parsons, Engage Agro Photographs courtesy Colin Young, Superintendent, Lebovic Golf Club hen Lloyd Cherniak first began the process of developing a W plot of land that saddles Leslie Street, north of Bloomington Road in Aurora, Ontario, in the late 1980’s, the golf market in this province looked a lot different. Since that time dozens of golf courses have popped up north of Toronto, others have closed their doors, and real estate prices anywhere within 100 kilometers of the city have gone into orbit. Cherniak, Vice President of Lebovic Enterprises, a prominent home builder in the Greater Toronto Area, was tenacious in working with the many branches of government and local interest groups to make it happen though. And when you start to examine further how this golf facility came to be, you realize this truly is a story of perseverance. Doug Carrick was first contacted to design the layout for what would become Lebovic Golf Club back in 1996. At that time, the superintendent of Lebovic, Colin Young, was just a youngster in high school. Young, who left his role as Assistant Superintendent at the renowned Beacon Hall Golf Club in 2013, was excited to get his first chance as a superintendent. "I felt like I was ready for the responsibility of growing in the golf course when Lloyd gave me the opportunity because I had worked for three great superintendents who helped prepare me.” What Young quickly found out was that this grow-in was going to include a lot more than just establishing turf. Over the last two years, Opposite page, top: Hole #14 growing in and, below, shown under the maintenance team which Young oversees has been involved with construction. Above: Hole #3prior to opening andfirst cut (inset); regional road infrastructure, utility establishment including gas, Below: Completed hole #2 and the excessive weeds during construction (inset). water and power, communications, home building, pond building and over 1,000 tree plantings, just to name a few things. “The biggest challenge I found was making the project and all its pieces come together at the right time and having multiple contractors on the same page and working together,” says Young. Establishing turf with minimal resources at the start is hard enough, but having to play the role of general contractor and worry about major road improvements to Leslie Street and the building of 75 homes that line parts of the golf course adds a whole different layer to the project. It means that you can get pulled in a completely different direction at the start of the day and the establishment of grass becomes secondary. This can be tough for a Michigan State turf graduate, such as Young, whose first instinct is growing grass. “My passion is the golf course so the times when I could not give the golf course my undivided attention were tough.” Although Lebovic Enterprises has been building homes for over 60 years, this is the company’s first time building a community that includes a golf course, which means that there are many unique challenges that have not been dealt with before. The company’s vision is to offer a private golf facility, with a housing community that is totally separate from the golf course. For the maintenance team though, the housing community will play a role in how the golf course is tended to on a daily basis. Irrigation water will be comprised of treated effluent water collected from the homes and golf facilities as well as storm and surface water runoff. All of which is all linked via six ponds scattered throughout the property. This was part of the negotiations that took place to get the golf course approved, because it sits on the Oak Ridges Moraine and the Ministry of Environment would not permit a well for irrigation. Continued on page 19... BEAUTIFUL TRUTH The truth is, YOU make this happen. We understand that beautiful turf doesn’t come easily and you don’t get any second chances. Evergro shares in your relentless pursuit of perfection. We promise you our best every time. Continually proud supplier of quality products including Contec®, Complete Course™, Total Summer, Total Spring and Fall, and Polyon®. 855.228.2828 evergro@cpsagu.ca ProTurf is a registered trademark owned by Crop Production Services (Canada) Inc. CONTEC is a registered trademark owned by Crop Production Services (Canada) Inc. POLYONH is a registered trademark of Koch Agronomic Services, LLC. Continued from page 17... typically establish quicker than grass under wet conditions. “There The building of Carrick’s par-70 layout which plays 6,462 yards from were a lot of areas where there was more weeds than grass which was the tips began back in the spring of 2013. Young truly believes that this tough to look at,” Young admits. course is going to have a lot to offer. “The layout is a lot of fun. It’s got It makes it all the more difficult to battle these challenges when you some teeth to it, but with four sets of tees, it’s playable for everyone.” are short on staff and operating out of containers. Not to mention the The first seven holes are located on the west side of Leslie Street and fact that you do not have the luxury of a beautiful golf course to look are more open to the elements, while the remaining 11 holes are on the at when you are in the midst of trying to establish it. There just is not east side, with most of those holes either lined with water or surrounded a lot to hang your hat in the beginning, which places greater emphasis by woodlands. Another challenge of the building process was working on a tight knit team that works together, something Young has done a with York Region to get a 166 foot long tunnel (20 feet wide by 12 great job establishing. feet tall) built under Leslie Street so both sides of the property can As the months rolled on, Young and his team started to notice more be accessed safely. “When it was being installed I knew this golf and more gains. The infrastructure and equipment continued to grow course and development was no joke. Watching it being installed was and so too did everybody’s confidence. The turf really started to take hold amazing and now I know why those crane operators get paid the big and the vision of what the property could be started to match what they bucks. Dealing with that kind of weight and size with precision and were looking at. All the while some of the early challenges that often having people’s lives at risk working below you truly was impressive.” stalled progress started to become less of an issue for Young and his team. Yet another unique aspect of this project is Lebovic Golf Club’s “You can never doubt yourself or each other. We have a great core team greens. The putting surfaces, which look and play fantastic, were estab­ here and that is what has helped get us to where we are.” lished from Pure Distinc­ tion bentgrass seed. Young was the first in Canada to select this variety. “I want­ ed a superior grass that was dense and could fight off poa (annua) invasion.” In doing his research, he felt this was the best choice. Similarly, another chal­ lenge of the project was the fact that every blade of grass on the property was established from seed. Typically with grow-ins, sod is used to form edges L-R: The pond lining being constructed. Tunnel construction under Leslie Street which spanned 166feet to connect the east where the grass transitions and west sides ofthe course. from bentgrass to blue­ grass around greens, tees and fairways. This makes the establishment Young also acknowledges how important family is for a golf course a lot easier as it helps guard against washouts and provides immedi­ superintendent, especially one that is in the midst of a golf course ate definition. This was a luxury the maintenance team at Lebovic grow-in. The demands of the job are significant and it often means was not afforded. “The washouts were seemingly endless. It was a that you are away from home a lot more than you would like to be. real struggle given the amount of thunderstorms in our area during Young gives a lot of credit to his wife Caroline, a school teacher, who the summer of 2014. If there was a positive that came from this it has really taken on a great deal of added responsibility with their two was that we tested pretty much every erosion control product on the children, Nathan and Stephanie, over the last couple of years. market and learned a lot in the process,” says Kevin Pleasance, Lebo- Fortunately for Young and the Lebovic turf team they are about to vic’s assistant superintendent who has been instrumental in helping turn a corner. Their new maintenance facility, which is very impressive, Young slug through the day to day challenges. recently reached a point in construction where they could finally wave Young is very quick to praise his staff, which also includes his goodbye to the small trailer they had called home for the last two mechanic Darryl Thomas, who Young says is one of the best in the seasons. In many ways, it’s a defining moment for this crew that has business, as well as former lead hand Sean Van Beurden, who was there endured a great deal over the last two years. What Cherniak started in 2014. Corey Young who was a first year intern this summer and more than a quarter century ago is poised to be a reality in 2016 and the Greg Moore who joined the Lebovic team recently, round out the crew. maintenance team led by Young has been a big part of it. In the early days of the grow-in, there were a lot of times that tested They have finally reached a point where they can see the benefits the team’s strength and determination. The 2014 season was a notably of all the hard work they have put in and this is something that is not wet one, which meant that progress was often interrupted by large shifts lost on Young who believes, “the beauty of our job is that you get to in soil, which had not yet been anchored by the roots of the emerging feel proud.” grass. It also meant that there was a large infestation of weeds, which And they should be. ■ Creating a Classic Through Team Camaraderie By Riley Johns to the world that “anything short of spectacular would be a failure.” Thanks Bill. t is often said that too many cooks in the kitchen spoil the broth. Nonetheless, the team got down to business and began shaping golf I However, for the creation of the new Cabot Cliffs golf course on Cape Breton Island that notion couldn’t be further from the truth. In holes. We all started to find our stride and things soon began clicking on all cylinders. Then once again, as if the pressure wasn’t enough, we fact, it is proof that a team environment can really benefit a project. were asked to have the entire golf course (minus the three holes from The team assembled to create Canadas most anticipated golf venue, the previous year) completed by the end of season! For those familiar all brought their own unique flavours and spices to the kitchen. It with golf course construction, having 15 holes of golf shaped, drained, was a creative collaboration at its best, lead by the ever steady duo of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw that saw passionate professionals join together and create a single piece of art. It wasn’t just the individuals on the team that made the experience unique—it was how the team functioned together that made it memorable. In terms of music, we weren’t an orchestra all playing our individual instruments, but rather a jazz band, all playing and improvising off the other’s beats. Right from day one, all eyes were on Cabot Cliffs and the pressure was felt. Bill and Ben had conceived an unconventional routing plan that saw six par 3’s, six par 4’s, and six par 5’s all navigate the rugged coastline beautifully. Then, as if the potential of botching an amazing piece of property wasn’t enough pressure on us, Bill Coore announced Bottom insets, left to right: Perched above the 14th hole, the team relaxes by the “after-work” campfire to watch the sunset and cook somefood; Having a quick sandwich at work and taking in the views; Fresh lobster on the back deck while enjoying the long Cape Breton summer nights. 9 WAYS to Healthy Turf While shaping the 11thfairway it appears the excavatorfound a pot ofgold. respond® 3 grows your turf health irrigated, and seeded in one short season is a lofty goal. However, with from the roots up the right group of guys working together it wasn’t impossible—just Increased depth of water penetration: improbable! So we embraced the challenge and as one can imagine this meant 1 Increases rooting depth some seriously long days and weeks. This is where an experienced 2 Aids survival in drought conditions superintendent with experienced assistants becomes critical to the project. The workload associated with managing labour, seeding, and 3 Favours deeper rooting grasses establishing turf on a project of this complexity and scale is not a task taken lightly. A special hats off to Adam Calver, Bradley Allen, and Water soaks in more evenly: Jason Dziabel for their relentless dedication to the project. Like any 4 Avoids puddling typical superintendent’s routine, these guys would be the first onsite in the morning and last to leave at night. The difference is, unlike 5 Helps with drainage an average day’s work, this meant they were on site working for an More even water distribution/retention: average of 14 hours a day, rain or shine. I am a big believer in involving the superintendent(s) with the 6 Better use of water may reduce the need construction phases ofa project at the earliest opportunity possible. Not for irrigation only does he/she gain wisdom regarding the site’s particular weather or soil conditions, but has intimate knowledge of hidden infrastructure 7 Improved turf colour such as drainage and irrigation. The payoff of such knowledge is long Reduction in the symptoms of localized dry spot: term and crucial to the overall success of any golf project. I like to think that the superintendent is the last line of defence in creating 8 More even playing surface great golf courses, and ultimately becomes the curator of great golf 9 Healthier turf architecture. Continued on page 23... Grow your turf health from the roots up with Ontario: 1-800-265-5444 West: 1-800-561-5444 BC: 1-604-534-8815 Quebec & Maritimes: 1-800-361-9369 www.uap.ca Always read and follow label directions. Respond 3 is a registered trademark of Loveland Products, Inc. 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 the choice you want. Keep your turf looking its best with Quali-Pro products. Support choice: ask for Quali-Pro products by name. 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 pigment Green™ GT Banner Maxx® Merit™ 0.5G Merit™ 75 WSP Primo Maxx® spray pattern indicator Don Surgeoner, Canadian Quali-Pro Manager (519) 535-2409 • don.surgeoner@adama.com • Quali-Pro.ca ™ Know the Sign, Foursome and T-NEX are trademarks and ® Quali-Pro is a registered trademark of ADAMA Agriculture Solutions Canada Ltd. ™ Merit and Green are registered trademarks of Bayer. ® Banner Maxx and Primo Maxx are registered trademarks of Syngenta Group Company. 829-1.01.15 Top image: The 7th green complexfreshly seeded. Above insets: The 7th green complex the next morning after 80 millimeters ofrain was unleashed. Continued from page 21... to sun-down repairing the damage that was subsequently caused by a beaver dam bursting upstream in the forest some 300 yards away from Everyone has war stories about the Cabot Cliffs battle, and none the green. more so than the onsite Coore & Crenshaw associate Keith Rhebb. No matter what challenges or curve balls the project threw at us, Keith tells a great story about finishing the precariously perched 16th the team always rallied back. There were always smiles and laughter green at night with only the lights from his dozer and a headlamp as we compared the day’s war stories and enjoyed dinner and pints to guide him. Or, at the very end of the project in October, when we after work at the local Public House. When a project like Cabot Cliffs finally seeded the final hole (#7), Murphys Law decided to release becomes a labour of love and everyone involved is passionate about 80mm of rain over night and wash away an entire months work. doing the best job possible, the fun factor never fades. Trevor Dormer and myself (the only guys left on site) worked sun-up If I were to take anything away from my two years at Cabot Cliffs it would be that team spirit, camaraderie, and passion are the best ingredients for creative success. My theory is that the more fun the guys have building a golf course, the more fun the course will eventually play. Everything from the design process, to the shaping, to the maintenance should be done in the most playful and fun affections. This ensures that the fun-factor transcends the entire experience all the way through to the individual playing the course. After all, at the end of the day, it is just a game—and shouldn’t that be fun? ■ Riley Johns - Principal Designer at Integrative GolfCo. www.integrativegolfdesigns.com Inset left: Hole #15 completelyfinished and the first golfhole on the project to be playable. BEST OF THE BLOGS Examples ofaerialphotographs ofBernardo Heights Country Club. From a turfstandpoint, the overhead view is very useful to investigateproblems that are hard to see atground level. New Tool, New Toy by Jim Alwine, Superintendent, seeing many new photos on the website, blog, Bernardo Heights Country Club, and newsletter as I pick out the best and share Bernardo Heights San Diego, California, USA with the other departments. From a turf standpoint, the overhead view Country Club Turf recently submitted a video to a contest is very useful to investigate problems that are Page I hosted by TurfNet and Aquatrols on the hard to see at ground level. Drainage issues, topic of Smart Water Management. Our Turf irrigation uniformity, soil inefficiencies, fertil­ Reduction Program offered some great material izer applications, and shade patterns are just and saving water has been our focus for a number some of the issues we face everyday. A quick of years. Doug Ayers of Corral de Tierra, one flyover by the drone will produce many photos of the most innovative superintendents I’ve I can share with our staff as we work to make About the blog ever known, took first place leaving me with a the course as good as it can be. The purpose of this blog is to share information very cool second place prize. You can see the Project planning and documentation are also on the maintenance of the golf course and top three videos by following this link: http:// made easy with wide angle pictures achieved grounds at Bernardo Heights Country Club. www.turfnet.com/turfnet-tv.html/_/aquatrols- with altitude. Before I would draw out plans smart-water-video-challenge. on the shop’s dry erase board and point to old bhccturf.blogspot.ca We now have a tool in our arsenal that does maps in the shop along with a trip to the job Contributor: Jim Alwine, Superintendent much more than entertain, which it does quite site. Having a photo of the area in question well. The DJI Phantom 3 Advanced drone with sketches right on the photo takes out any is the most exciting toy I’ve ever owned. It guess work and allows the staff to accomplish too close to potential hazards, for example, the reaches speeds over 30 mph, comes with a exactly what I’m looking for without extra ash tree next to the 12th green. very good camera, and can capture photos and supervision. The good news is the drone is OK and was videos I’ve always wanted at a golf course. Last night I was trying to get some sunset back in the sky after I dusted off the leaf debris So, how is this useful to the course? First photos on the par 3 12th hole. The sunset was and bunker sand. off, the obvious answer is the marketing a little disappointing with much of the color In case you were wondering, my dog, Izzo, potential because it can shoot excellent photos lost in a distant marine layer. hates the drone. When she is around, I have at no additional cost. Aerial photographs have I’m still learning to fly the drone and to land it on top of a golf cart. I’ll post a good always been attractive to a golf course, but sometimes I get a little overconfident and fly example in the near future. ■ the price tag made it hard to justify. You’ll be HEALTH AND SAFETY It Could Happen To You he rustling leaves, cooler mornings and shorter days are a er cutting tools. White label with T reminder that the golf season is quickly drawing to an end. Final preparations are being made for fall clean up, as members green fir tree symbol footwear provides protection when using polish up their clubs for their winter hibernation. chainsaws. Protective features For many of us, this means pulling the chainsaw out for one are designed into the boots last round of grounds maintenance. A sobering statistic to take to prevent a running chain- into consideration is that 30,000 people are injured each year saw from cutting all the way in chainsaw mishaps, averaging 110 stitches while suffering life through the boot uppers so as altering injuries. to protect the shins, ankles, Consider this: Greg Norman, the Hall of Fame golfer, was using feet and toes. a chainsaw and cutting trees in his South Florida home when • Chainsaw or leather tragedy struck injuring Norman when the chain came in contact gloves that provide pro­ with his wrist. In an interview he said that he was told it missed tection and dexterity. his artery by a fraction of an inch (CBC Sports Golf). • Have first aid kits and a “Thank God the blade wasn’t running full cell phone and/or radio speed or it would have taken my hand off,” for immediate emergency Norman said. “I handled everything as calmly response. Remember — as I could.” Norman went on to state, “[when] every second counts. working with a chainsaw ALWAYS be respectful of Hi visibility clothing including; the unexpected. I was one lucky man today. Damaged, but not gloves, footwear, pants, hardhats and ear protection are recom­ down and out. [I] still have left hand,” he posted. mended to provide additional visibility. PPE is the first, best and Similarly, many chainsaw injuries can be avoided with the use last protection. of proper Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for specific job Chainsaw safety begins with you. Remember to follow the requirements. Chainsaw safety starts long before the saw does. manufactures operators manual, get certified training, have a Here is a suggested guide to consider: preventative maintenance program in place and become familiar • Chainsaw pants or chaps that are designed with cut-retardant with your obligations under the Ontario Occupational Health and material to reduce severity of injuries. All clothing should fit Safety Act & Regulations. ■ well ensuring no dangling or frayed edges. • A hard hat (with side impact) that safeguards the head from These are guidelines only and are not intended as legal or instructional falling limbs and/or branches. advice. Please refer to your obligations under the Ontario Occupational • Ear protection to prevent noise-induced hearing loss. Health and Safety ACT (OHSA) & Regulations. • Full face shield that will protect you from flying wood, twigs and branches. As well as safety glasses or goggles with side Bob Forsyth, CSP shields to protect against flying wood chips, sawdust and other OMNI SAFETY SOLUTIONS flying debris. Aurora, Ontario • Safety footwear *(new CSA standard) for forestry workers and Email: bob@omnisafetysolutions.ca others who work with or around hand-held chainsaws and oth­ Tel: 905-252-1234 LARGE TREE SALES AND RELOCATION Phil Dickie-ISA Certified Arborist ON-0309A pdickie@fastforest.ca Compost Based Topdressing & Construction Mixes USGA Spec. Sand & Mixes 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 P: (519) 748-6610 • F: (519) 748-6626 • www.fastforest.ca WWW.TPCSAND.COM TPCSANDANDMIXES@ROGERS.COM 705.888.2689 OFF THE FAIRWAY Fall Colours Extend the season with high-performance annuals s I write this it is October 15th, and at this These plants appear to be deciduous, but hold A very moment in Muskoka the leaves have their leaves throughout the winter, much the just passed their peak of beautiful colours. Soon same as evergreens, the difference being they they will be making their way to the ground have leaves instead of needles. In the fall when to be transformed into future food for the trees all else in the garden is dull and dying back, from which they came. broadleaf evergreens standout. Euonymous One thing that I miss as a born and raised species are excellent for fall appeal as well, and Niagara boy, is the length of fall in areas south they come with many options, including dark of where I currently reside. Don’t get me green or variegated white or yellow foliage. wrong, fall is beautiful in Muskoka, but it can The options aren’t limited to foliage colour be short lived in terms of landscape aesthetics. with Euonymous, as they also come as climbers It doesn’t take long for deciduous trees to go or small to large shrubs which can be shaped if from bright and brilliant in the fall to bare, and desired. Cotoneaster is another great broadleaf landscapes going from peak summer beauty to evergreen. This is a lower growing spreading drab. I am always envious of the extended fall species with dark green foliage, and in the fall season in southern parts of Ontario. holds little red berries which attract birds and I have recently been growing masses of are a nice contrast to the dark foliage colour.lt Begonia ‘Surefire Red’. This begonia rapidly also makes for a nice groundcover. Broadleaf made my list of best performing annuals. This evergreen species are all great low maintenance plant has extended my season of interest by shrubs, very suitable for foundation plantings, weeks and at this very moment is still looking in parking lot areas or bordering walkways. quite good considering we have seen some If you’re looking for fall fragrance, then light frost already. When all other annuals are Cimicifiiga (Bugbane) is the perennial for you. calling it quits, these guys will get you a couple It has very long upright bottlebrush type flowers weeks of extended colour for sure. that are white and fade slightly pink. When A group of plant species that don’t get planted in a group the flowers smell amazing. enough credit are the broadleaf evergreens. Blooming extremely late in the season, so these are one of the last to flower before the snow flies. They are a woodland type plant, so they tolerate shade and tree root competition. DELIVERING SUPERIOR SOD AND QUALITYSERVICE Cimicifuga comes with a dark maroon or burgundy foliage which is an added bonus and • #1 Kentucky Bluegrass great contrast to the bright white blooms. If • NEW Bella Bluegrass! you tend to plant with pollinators in mind, you • Extreme Fescue will find these blooms covered in bees. Expect • Premium Bentgrass blooms, depending on your location, starting in • Custom grown mid-September to early October. It will reach sod available a height of six feet when in bloom. • Large or small rolls It may be tough to find ranging flower colour • Low mow in the late fall, as there are few options because most perennials have gone to seed, but there is a species that can give you more options for Living- Breathing. late season flower colour. Fall Anemone’s can be a great addition to entrances or high traffic REAL GRASS IS areas where they can be appreciated from up BETTER! close. They come in pinks and whites. Queen HEALTHIER! Charlotte is an excellent variety. There really isn’t much that can go wrong when using ornamental grasses in the landscape. Phone:877-727-2100 They are low maintenance and they have many 17525 Jane St. | Kettleby, Ontario | L7B0J6 www.zandersod.com uses like focal points, screens, masses, and have Above, Miscanthus "Huron Sunrise"and, right, Begonia "Surefire Red’ were planted at the clubhouse ofMuskoka Lakes G&CC. interest from spring to fall and even throughout flowering in midsummer and last right through the winter if left standing. The Miscanthus until the snow flies, changing all the while from family has many varieties within it, ranging white to pink. in sizes, textures, flower colour and flowering I assume everyone knows already of some time. All Miscanthus flower in the fall, but plant species most commonly planted for their some are slightly later than others. They are fall interest, but I will mention a few in closing really amazing as they go from flower to seed. as they have a lot to offer. Burning bush is The flowers shade changes almost daily as probably the most common shrub used for fall they transition into large white or silver puffy aesthetic value. Turning a striking bright red ATTENTION! plumes. Also, as the plant stops producing through the fall, this shrub is second to none chlorophyll and begins to go dormant for the winter, the leaf blades start to change colour when it comes to fall foliage colour in the shrub category. Of course the Red Maple (Acer IPM Certified from green to yellow and eventually to brown rubrum) is tough not to mention from the tree Agents once fully dormant. category. The name says it all. From the world So many species of trees give us amazing of perennials, I believe the biggest bang for fall colours in Ontario. Some are native some fall buck has to be Rudbeckia ‘Goldsturm’. It not from here but have made great additions to is extremely long blooming, very dense, great Get your Ontario landscapes. One that comes to mind appearance up close and even better from is the Amur Maple. Native to China and Japan, afar. Monkshood is also a perennial worth recertification credits this small tree is an excellent choice for the mentioning as it is a great choice for extremely limited urban setting. It’s excellent tolerance to late season blooms. ON-LINE challenging site conditions, freedom from pests All of the above mentioned plants are and beautiful fall colours make it particularly species that will extend interest in the garden. with suited for the small space. It has more to offer than just striking red fall colour. This small tree They have great attributes through the entire season as well though and are not just for fall P.D. Solutions! has a great natural form and interesting bright appearances. ■ red or pink samaras. Last but not least, Hydrangea Paniculata Grandiflora ‘Pink Diamond’ should be Chris Cumming CLP, Visit: considered for fall interest. When designing, Horticulturist I learned quickly that trees and shrubs Muskoka Lakes Golf www.pdsolutions.ca contribute their flowering performances to and Country Club spring and early summer and that very few Port Carling, Ontario or call provide showy flowers from midsummer to fall. One exception is the Pee Gee Hydrangeas chriscumming@live.ca Tel: 705-765-3165 1-877-977-6774 and, in particular, ‘Pink Diamond.’ They start Cell: 705-644-3994 LOOKING BACK Ten Years Ago Today he Board of Directors in 2005 were as follows: Paul Scenna, ON THE MOVE: John Parker left Trafalgar G&CC and was the T Donalda Club (President), Rob Ackermann, Weston G&CC new superintendent at Beaverdale GC. Brian Brooker went to (Past President), Bob Burrows, Rosedale GC (Vice President), Hornby Glen GC and Ted Ellis left Blue Springs GC and moved to Sean DeSilva, Taboo, Jeff Stauffer, Credit Valley G&CC, Chris Huron Oaks GC. Mark Prieur left Markland Wood GC and went Andrejicka, Essex G&CC, Jarrod Barakett, Deer Ridge GC, to Trafalgar G&CC, Mike Pellerin was the new Superintendent Randy Booker, Dundas Valley G&CC, Doug Breen, Golf North, at North Bay G&CC and Ryan Beauchamp left St. Thomas Trevor Clapperton, Dalewood G&CC and Rob Gatto, King’s G&CC and went to Glen Abbey GC. Wade Beaudoin took over Forest GC. John Bladon, Nu-Gro Corporation, was Editor of at St. Thomas G&CC and Corey Phillips went to Bushwood GC. Green is Beautiful. Peter Kinch moved from Glen Abbey GC to Lambton G&CC and Dave Svab moved to Buck Ridge GC. Jason Pickering was the new Superintendent at Tamarack Ridge GC and Jason Bindi took over as Superintendent at Nobleton Lakes GC. Bob Heron retired from Beacon Hall GC and was replaced by Paul Scenna, from Donalda Club. Scott White took over at Donalda Club and Winter Brian Taylor went to Mystic GC. Ian Bowen left The Rock GC and started working for Hutcheson Sand and Mixes and Jason Wellness Winter became the new Superintendent at The Rock GC. Barry Endicott started working for Gordon Wendover Construction and Douglas Wood Simon George started with Maple Turf Supply. Large Tree Service can beautify and ACHIEVEMENTS: Norman McCollum retired as Research Superintendent at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. protect your course with the help Rhod Trainor, Hamilton G&CC, was selected as Superintendent ofthe Year by the CGSA. of Paul Hanousek, Ray Dlugokecki obtained “Certified Audubon Co-operative Certified Arborist Sanctuary” status at Springfield G&CC. Dr. Clayton Switzer was inducted into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame for his contributions in various positions in agriculture that resulted in the creation of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. www.douglaswood.ca TOURNAMENTS: The Spring Field Day was held at the Guelph Lakes G&CC hosted by Don Heinmiller. Dr. Clayton Switzer Paul Hanousek, Certified Arborist presented the winning trophy to Bruce Burger who shot a 72. Members of OGSA, ISA and OCAA Other scores were Scott Gardener, 72 and Paul Scenna, 76. 1.800.353.3019 The 37th Presidents’ Day was held at Scarboro G&CC hosted by T. 519.856.2771 • F. 519.856.1447 Keith Rasmus. First place winning team from The Club at North paulhanousek@douglaswood.ca Halton, was led by Dean Baker. P.O. Box 339 Rockwood ON NOB 2K0 The 60th Annual Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament was held at Lakeview GC hosted by Bruce Burger. Low scores 1. Thom Charters (left) wins the George Darou Trophy presented by Mark Scenna ofTurf Care. 2. Don Heinmiller (left) receives a plaquefrom Director Chris Andrejickafor hosting the Spring Field Day. 3. Keith Rasmus (left) is presented with the host superintendent plaque by CGSA President Paul Scenna, Presidents'Day 2005. 4. Trevor Clapperton presents the William Sansom Trophy to Dean Baker, Ian Scott, Herbert Arnold, & David McNally (Club at North Halton) who were the winning team at Presidents Day 2005. 5. Norm McCollum retiresfrom the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. 6. Bruce Burger (left) receives the winning trophyfrom Dr. Clayton Switzer at the Spring Field Day were Thom Charters, 71, Bill Fach, 75, Rick Trainor, 77, Rhod Mac Frost owned Cedar Brae GC, Parkview GC, Brookwood GC, Trainor, 78 and Tom Brain, 79. Thom Charters won the George Spring Lakes GC and Vespra Hills GC. He was a member of the Darou Trophy presented by Turf Care. OGSA and CGSA and winner of the John B. Steel Distinguished Service Award in 1993. He was inducted into the Ontario Golf Hall IN MEMORIAM: Keith Nisbet (1917-2005). In 1966, of Fame in the builders category in 2005. Mac was also a founding Keith became a charter member of the Canadian Golf Course sponsor of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Superintendents Association (CGSA). In 1980, Keith retired as Ted Charman had been the superintendent at Ladies Golf Club Superintendent of Westview GC, and turned the management of of Toronto, London Hunt and Country Club and the National Golf Westview GC over to his son Colin. In 2001, he received the John Club of Canada. ■ B. Steel Award from CGSA. Rene Muylaert designed many golf courses in the GTA including Barry Endicott Chinguacousy G&CC (now Caledon G&CC), Glen Eagle GC, Retired Golf Course Superintendent Diamond Back GC, St. Andrew’s Valley GC, Horseshoe Resort, Brampton, Ontario Nobleton Lakes GC, Pheasant Run GC, Hawk Ridge GC, Heritage Tel: 905-846-1440 Hills GC, Sparrow Lakes GC and Peninsula Lakes GC. Rene’s Email: barry.endicott@gmail.com brother, Charlie, did the construction. Braemar Building Systems CUSTOM DESIGN QUALITY BUILDINGS • COMPETITIVE PRICES • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • New Buildings • Wood & Steel Structures For your FREE ESTIMATES call us at 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com TURF OR CONSEQUENCES Bandwagon by Doug Breen, Superintendent Golf North Properties watched with interest this fall, as seemingly everyone around me, I jumped onto the Blue Jays’ bandwagon, knowing full well, that they’ll never watch another baseball game until the next playoff run. I’m always puzzled by bandwagon jumpers. Why would a person show absolutely no interest in a thing, and then suddenly become entire nation wanted to leap off the some kind of wild-eyed super-fan overnight, only to lose interest in porch and bark at the moon with it again after a relatively short time has passed? More importantly, him. A week later, when the same what is the anatomy of the bandwagon jumper, and how do we get team couldn’t manufacture a run, them onto golf’s? with runners on the corners and I started, by looking at other examples of the phenomenon. Every none out - the Jays ceased to be the time the Leafs win back to back games, their casual fans start a buzz, alpha dogs, and we all went back and their hard-core fans lose their minds. If they win three in a row, to not giving a crap about baseball. they start dusting off the mantle for the Stanley Cup. One overtime Some pretended that they never loss, and they’re back to cynically griping that “none of us will live got caught up in it in the first place, long enough to see the Cup in Toronto.” in spite of them tweeting about it The entire Olympic movement is based on bandwagon jumping. Every non-stop for five days straight. four years, we all become experts in fringe sports that we barely grasp the So the real question, is what could rules of, and pin our worth as a country to teenagers, who didn’t have the make golf an alpha sport that people sense to play sports that people actually care about. A week later, we can’t want to be seen playing? There was remember why we were watching judo in the first place. a time, when golfwas an opportunity I always feel bad for the real fans that get pushed off the bandwagon to run with the alpha dogs of the (or relegated to the back row), in order to make room for casual/ business world. Whether you were backslidden fans, legitimate fans’ girlfriends, and scenesters. I have having an informal meeting with a cousin, who watches pretty much every Jays game on TV, apart the Vice President of Arse Kissing, from the dozen or so that she attends live. She used to umpire minor or wooing a client, corporate golf was a sign that you had arrived in baseball, coached, and has been doing all of this since the 1970’s - the business world. When someone decided that golf was no longer but she couldn’t get tickets to see the Jays playoff run. Imagine if a legitimate business tax write-off, they killed that opportunity for us. you’d dedicated your entire life to the sport of hammer throwing, but Incidentally, no one in Ottawa can actually remember when or why they couldn’t get tickets to a world championship in your home town, so did that, nor can they explain why lap dances are still tax deductible some frat-boy could do Jagar Bombs in a luxury box! when golf isn’t. But again, how do we use this phenomenon to get the casual golfer, Another thing that leads to bandwagon jumping is “media buzz”. the golfer’s girlfriend, and the “flavour of the month” crowd to play If the vapid nattering of the local radio station’s “Morning Zoo” are more golf? It seems that the driving force behind most bandwagon about a certain restaurant or movie or golf course - then it creates a jumping, is the age old desire to be involved in whatever is happening. sense of it being the place to be. Those “mentions”, as they’re called, People are like dogs in many ways - most of them initiate nothing, but are actually for sale. It’s another form of advertising revenue for the are panting on the sidelines of culture, waiting for their opportunity to station. Did that depress any of you? It probably should. bark and run with the alpha dogs. When Bautista did his now famous But I believe; therein lies the answer - advertising. Golf spends a “bat flip”, he was at that moment, the alpha of the alpha dogs, and an fortune, advertising to itself. Preaching to the choir, as it were, but we do very little to promote our game to the masses. Walt Disney didn’t promote Disney World because he wanted to make everyone in Orlando richer, but it did. A rising tide lifts all ships, and the State of Florida prospered, because Walt promoted his brand. He didn’t open his amusement park, and then wait for the state to promote vacations to there, or expect the American Association of Theme Parks, (there is one, I checked) to figure it out for him. He spent money to get us to believe that Disney World was the alpha dog of family vacations. No Corrie Almack P.Ag. one spends more on advertising than Nike, McDonald’s, and Coke - and they are the three most recognized brands on the planet. Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 If we want people to jump onto our bandwagon, we need to be seen Box 256, Carlisle, ON Cell: (416) 580-5152 as the alpha dog of leisure time activities - and we’re going to have to LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca spend some money to do it. ■ We've Got You Covered. 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