Green is Summer 2015 Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association Angus Glen Golf Club Hosts 2015 Pan Am Games ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Misled: Public Perception vs. Modern Environmental Practices The Merits Of A 'Short' Course Training: It's A Process, Not An Event CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No.-40027105 postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA Victoria Rd. S.Guelph, ON N1L OH2 Proper turns have been out of your control. Until now. The new A Model Mowers from John Deere Now your presence can be felt on every pass. Thanks to the TechControl display on our new A Model mowers, the Turn Speed screen lets you slow down a mower to a percentage of the mowing speed as the cutting units are lifted after a pass, greatly reducing scuffing. You can also plug in mow and transport speeds, service reminders and receive diagnostic feedback quickly and accurately. And all of your operators can now mow in a more consistent fashion. Visit JohnDeere.ca/Golf or contact your John Deere Golf distributor to learn more. Trusted by the best courses on Earth JohnDeere.ca/Golf PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE Green is Beautiful The Official Publication of Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity over I the last few months to attend several OGSA and regional events throughout the province. Aside from the immaculately manicured Editor Justin Parsons conditions of each golf course, the one thing that has impressed justinparsons@engageagro.com me the most is the professionalism of my peers and the way they conduct themselves. It has been a fantastic experience meeting Publisher & Advertising Manager fellow superintendents, assistants and associates at various facilities Terry Davey recently and it is truly remarkable to see how our profession has terry@blenheim.ca risen to an elite level. Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 by John McLinden This has been a valuable learning experience for me and I would OGSA President encourage our members to participate in upcoming events or Administration Manager simply visit other golf courses. I have found that there is great Diane Davey value in getting away from your club to play a round of golf, network and enjoy the diane@blenheim.ca company of your colleagues. It is also an opportunity to revitalize yourself and observe Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 103 some of the exceptional practices and ideas being used at other golf clubs. As a reminder, it is considered a professional courtesy to contact the superintendent of the club you are Production & Design visiting to notify him/her of your impending visit. Jeanette Thompson The 2016 joint conference with the CGSA in Toronto is progressing well and we will jeanettethompson@mac.com be sharing more details with you in the coming months. We are looking forward to an Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 exciting lineup of speakers as you connect with your colleagues from across the province Green is Beautiful is published four times and the country. a year (November / March / June / August) We are currently in the midst of the most stressful point of the golf season and I wish by Blenheim INK for: everyone well as we look forward to shorter days and cooler nights. ■ Providing engineering solutions to Ontario’s Golf industry. Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association Engineering Design & Consulting Services Sally Ross, Executive Manager Land Development & Approval Assistance Guelph Turfgrass Institute Permit & Regulatory Agency Approval Assistance 328 Victoria Road South Guelph, ON N1L0H2 Irrigation & Drinking Water Supply Strategies Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Strategies Tel: 519-767-3341 GPS Surveying & Mapping Services Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Fax:519-766-1704 30 Centurian Dr. Suite 100 Markham, Ontario L3R 8B8 Phone 905 475 1900 Fax 905 475 8335 Email: manager@ogsa.ca www.scsconsultinggroup.com www.ogsa.ca Premium Products Published by Blenheim INK Administration Office: for all Your Turf Needs 503-5340 Lakeshore Road Burlington, ON L7L7A8 PO Box 7, Waterloo, ON N2J3Z6 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 ALLIANCE AGRI-TURF 23 www.allianceagri-turf.com ALMACK AGRONOMIC SERVICES INC. 18 AQUATROLS 25 www.aquatrols.com BAYER 31 www.bayeres.ca BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 6 www.braemarbuildings.com DCS AGRONOMIC SERVICES 23 DOUGLAS WOOD LARGE TREE SERVICE 24 www.douglaswood.ca ENGAGE AGRO 28 www.enoaoeagro.ca EVERGRO 12 FAST FOREST 29 www.fastforest.ca GREEN JACKET 21 16 Feature: www.GreenJacket.com/gib Angus Glen Golf Club Hosts GREEN HORIZONS GROUP OF FARMS www.JustSodit.com 24 2015 Pan Am Games JOHN DEERE 2 www.JohnDeere.com/Golf In This Issue MANA QUALI-PRO 22 www.quali-pro.ca MASTER'S TURF SUPPLY LTD. 18 7 Pro/Super Challenge Recap 20 The Merits of a www.mastersturfsupply.com 'Short' Course NUTRITE 9 9 Presidents' Day Recap An Alternative to Traditional www.nutrite.com Course Design ONTARIO SEED COMPANY 3 10 Golf Goes Green 23 Training: It's A Process, www.oscturf.com Superintendents Are Leaders in Not An Event RD. SOLUTIONS 30 Environmental Practices www.pdsolutions.ca PLANT FOOD COMPANY 5 www.plantfoodco.com Regular Contributors SCS CONSULTING GROUP LTD. 3 www.scsconsultinggroup.com SHERIDAN NURSERIES 27 3 President's Message 24 Best of the Blogs www.sheridannurseries.com TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 13, 32 5 Editorial Message 26 Off the Fairway www.turfcare.ca 14 Member Profile 29 Looking Back TURF PROFESSIONALS CHOICE www.tpcsand.com 2g Ken Nelski, Superintendent, UNITED AGRI PRODUCTS INC. 19 Annandale Golf & Curling Club 30 Turf or Consequences www.uap.ca 14 Golf Course Highlight ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 26 Annandale Golf & Curling Club www.zandersod.com 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 Superintendent»’ Association Justin Parsons Christian Kuhn 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 Kevin Kobzan reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. ON THE COVER Although some trade names may be mentioned in articles contained in this publication, no Angus Glen Golf Club OGSA is committed to serving its members, endorsement is intended or implied by the Photo courtesy: Doug Erwin advancing their profession, and enriching Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. andAngus Glen GC the quality of golf and its environment. EDITORIAL MESSAGE s Dr. Paul Hersey hear about turf grooming for a major event A once said: “If you in the papers, it is usually for a negative don’t blow your ownreason. I think we would all agree that this WELCOME to Our New Members horn... somebody else is incredibly unfortunate. We rarely hear is going to use it as a about what it takes to get these golf courses spittoon.” ready to host a major tournament. We rare­ Gary Anderson Class F Over the last ly hear about the hours that are put in, the Millcroft Golf Club few weeks Ontario sacrifices that are made, and the three radios courses have hosted that are hanging off a superintendent’s belt. Anthony Angelis Class Supt by Justin Parsons, Engage Agro Corp. some premiere inter­ If the efforts for high profile events aren’t Innisfil Creek Golf Course national golf events; being recognized amongst the mainstream The Pan Am Games golf competition at An­ media, then the everyday efforts certainly Sean Brillinger Class C gus Glen, the RBC Canadian Open at Glen stand no chance. There are so many positive The Country Club Abbey, and the Manulife LPGA Classic at things that happen on golf courses every day Whistle Bear. It’s pretty impressive that one that the average person is completely un­ Liam Bryck Class C province can host three events of this magni­ aware of. The OGSA is trying very hard Rattlesnake Point Golf Club tude in the span of six weeks. It’s even more to get the word out with initiatives like the impressive that all the venues were well re­ ‘Thank a Superintendent’ campaign, but Duncan Kirk Class C ceived, the conditioning was fantastic, and the best chance for success lies within a col­ Tangle Creek Golf & Country Club there was a great deal of intrigue right down lective effort. To steal a phrase from Sally, Paul Krug Class C to the end for each tournament. “we need to do a better job of blowing our When we read about these types of events own horn.” It’s not bragging, it’s educating Victoria Park Valley Golf Club in the mainstream media though, the atten­ and based on some of the quotes in Robert Tyler Szela Class S tion is almost always on the leaderboard and Thompson’s article from golf’s attackers, it University of Guelph the players themselves. In fact, if we ever is clearly needed. ■ Wetting Agent Performance! Professional Products Distributed By: RegulatePlus Dual Action Wetting Agent -Salicylic Acid! 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Follow us on twitter @PlantFoodCo WHAT'S NEW by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager the LPGA Manulife Financial Classic OGSA Board decided that the training held at Whistle Bear Golf Club, the Pan will be free for our members, or non­ "THANK A GOLF COURSE Am Games, where the golf portion of the members who work at clubs where the SUPERINTENDENT" event was held at Angus Glen Golf Club superintendent is a member and any Thanks to the acquisition of a grant and during the Canadian Open held at technicians who are GCSAA members. from the GCSAA, the OGSA has Glen Abbey Golf Club. Food and any incidental costs will be been able to promote the golf course Coupled with our Superintendent absorbed by the association. We hope to superintendent profession through a Recognition Program, this campaign schedule the training sessions in various series of radio spots, which aired during highlights the importance of the golf areas of the province, including Niagara, course superintendent, whose golf courses London, the GTA and Peterborough. play host to many significant tournaments Special thanks to our associate members around the province. We have seen for helping with this initiative. Stay MARK YOUR CALENDAR measurable results through our social tuned for further details. UPCOMING 2015 OGSA media network as well as e-mails and phone calls of awareness for what superintendents MEETINGS WITH THE CGSA Tournament & Events achieve day in and day out. Recently, a meeting was held with CGSA As evidenced by the pictures included Ontario Director from Muskoka Lakes in this issue, OGSA Directors made it a G&CC, Jim Flett. The consultation was Alex McClumpha priority in their schedules to make these an opportunity for the OGSA Board to Memorial Tournament presentations happen. Thanks to all of provide input on the planned redesign of them and congratulations to our host the national association. OGSA will also Markland Wood Golf Club superintendents and their staff. be represented at the CGSA’s scheduled Toronto, Ontario meeting this fall in Jasper, Alberta to Monday, October 5,2015 TECHNICIAN TRAINING outline further steps in the process. At The association is planning once again this time the CGSA will report on the to offer technician training this fall. The results of their consultations. ■ 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 Thanking the Golf Course Superintendent July 10,2015-Investors Group July 23,2015 - Investors Group July 24,2015 - Investors Group Jr. June 7,2015 - Manulife Ontario Womens Amateur Sr. & Womens MidAmateur Boys ’ (U19) Championship presented Financial LPGA Classic - Award Championship-Awardpresented by Championship presented by Jason by Rod Speake ofMill Run Golf presented by Cory Janzen of John McLinden ofLadies GolfClub Boyce ofSmugglers Glen Golf& Club, to Superintendent Tyler Ruest Westmount Golf & Country Club, ofToronto, to Superintendent Wade Country Club, to SuperintendentJim ofDalewood Golf Club. to Superintendent Tom Kinsman Beaudoin ofSt Thomas Golfand Burlington ofLoyalist Country Club. of Whistle Bear Golf Club. Country Club. Photo: Scott MacLeod, Flagstick Golf Magazine Pro/Super Challenge Rattlesnake by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Director Undefeated he OGSA held its annual Pro/Super aturday, July 25th, saw teams from T Challenge on June 1,2015 at Black Bear Ridge Golf Course in Belleville, Ontario. S across Southern Ontario take to the diamonds at Turner Park in Hamilton Hosted by long time association member to participate in the 21st Annual Plant Bill Fach and Golf Professional Bill Kerr Products Slo-Pitch Tournament. Twenty Jr., the day was successful despite cold and teams in all showed up for the sun filled blustery conditions. day and after the preliminary rounds Many comments were heard from the the quarter finals saw RattleSnake Point golfers throughout the day about how beat DiamondBack, Cardinal knock off beautiful the course was and how it was in Rosedale, Willow Valley beat Crosswinds perfect condition. and Deer Creek take out Hamilton. The First place went to the team of Andrew perennial powerhouses moved onto the Lombardo, Superintendent and Andrew Pro/Super winners, left, GolfProfessional Andrew semifinals where Deer Creek were knocked Critchton, and Superintendent Andrew Lombardo Critchton, Golf Professional from out by RattleSnake Point and Willow Valley from Wyndance Golf Club. Wyndance Golf Club. A very close second were sent home by Cardinal. For the third was the team from Lambton Golf & year in a row the final match saw Cardinal Country Club, Peter Kinch, Superintendent take on RattleSnake Point and the outcome and Ben McFaul, Golf Professional. In did not change as RattleSnake Point came third place was the team from Bay of Quinte out as the victors of the Plant Products Slo- Golf & Country Club, Aaron McConnell, Pitch Tournament. Plant Products would Superintendent and Brandon McClean, like to thank all the clubs that participated Golf Professional. and made this event a huge success again The two closest to the pin winners this year. We look forward to seeing you were Andrew Keffer, Clublink for the all in 2016 where RattleSnake Point will superintendents and Bill Keating, Camelot defend their championship and possibly Golf & Country Club for the golf earn the right to be called a dynasty. ■ professionals. Bill Keating also captured the longest drive for the golf professionals, with Richard Butler, St. Andrew’s East Golf Club winning the same prize for the superintendents. Host Superintendent Bill Fachfrom Black Bear Team skins were split between King Ridge Golf Course. Valley Golf Club, Wyndance Golf Club, Copper Creek Golf Club and Annandale Golf & Country Club. OGSA Director from Smuggler’s Glen Golf A great time was had by all participants, Course, thanked our hosts at Black Bear and the Emcee for the event, Jason Boyce, Ridge and all golfers for attending. ■ Tournament winnersfrom RattleSnake Point GC. CANADIAN GOLF COURSE JANUARY 11-15, 2016 MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE METRO TORONTO CONVENTION CENTRE TORONTO, ON GET IN ON THE ACTION! FEATURES: INDUSTRY SUPPLIERS ■ 3 day, 30+ hour education program ■ Easy move in and move out in a modern trade ■ 7 specialized learning workshops show venue - 75+ vendor trade show ■ Access to hundreds of qualified buyers from • Social and networking events across the country ■ Industry education sessions TO BOOK EXHIBIT SPACE: BENEFITS: Bill Garrett 1-800-387-1056, ext 224 - The latest research and knowledge presented by bgarrett@goIfsupers.com industry experts • Interaction with peers, industry leaders, experts FOR SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES: and industry related researchers and academics Ken Cousineau 1-800-387-1056, ext 222 ■ In-depth learning opportunities specific to golf kcousineau@golfsupers.com course management that are focused on issues relevant to the Canadian golf industry REGISTRATION & EDUCATION INFO: ■ An amazing opportunity to reconnect with old Kathryn Wood 1-800-387-1056, ext 223 friends and make new ones kwood@golfsupers.com ■ A chance to compare products and services from multiple vendors, all in one day HASHTAG: #CGCMC2016 SPONSORS Hotel Partner: Co-presenters: Intercontinental Toronto Centre 225 Front Street W, Toronto, ON 416-597-1400 Conference Rates begin at $179 per night For more information visit: www.golfsupers.com/toronto2016 Presidents' Day Recap by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Director he 46th annual Presidents’ Day T Tournament took place on July 13, 2015 at Lamb ton Golf & Country Club in Toronto. The day dawned sunny and warm and the great conditions prevailed throughout the day. Host Superintendent Peter Kinch had the course in tip top condition as the club is preparing to host the Canadian Men’s Amateur Championship in early August. Phil Scully, OGSA Immediate Past President, acted as Emcee for the event, along with OGSA President John McLinden presenting the prizes. The big winners of the day were the group from The Toronto Hunt, with their Superintendent Scott Heron. Scott also had the confidence in his team to bet on their capabilities in the para-mutuel prize pool and his assurance also brought him a Scott Heron and his winning teamfrom The Toronto Hunt. sizeable cash win. The team from Muskoka Lakes G&CC Club President Bob Beaumont welcomed with Superintendent Jim Flett came everyone to the facility and also saluted the second followed by Jason Harris and the turf maintenance staff as well as Peter for Orr Lake Golf Club team taking the third their hard work. spot. Rounding out the top four was the Phil Scully thanked all the Lambton staff combined group of Essex G&GC and St. and management for hosting the OGSA Thomas G&GC, with superintendents and a great time was had by everyone in Chris Andrejicka and Wade Beaudoin attendance. ■ respectively. A presentation was made to Peter Kinch Peter Kinch, host superintendent at to acknowledge his contribution to the Lambton G&CC accepts his plaquefrom event, and Lambton Golf & Country OGSA President John McLinden. For enhanced colour and improved stress tolerance. Unique micronutrient pack­ Xsodis™ is a unique liquid EKLO®-Plus is a unique age with nitrogen from calcium and magnesium kelp-based product ammonium sulphate and gluconate amendment to designed to help manage chelated iron for greens manage stress resistance. stress conditions and pro­ application. Contains 2% Contains 15% Ca, 2% Mg, mote overall plant growth Mg, 16% S, 4% chelated Fe, 0.3% B. and health. 2%Mn, 1%Zn. 1.800.265.8865 www.nutrite.com Golf Goes Green Superintendents are Leaders in Environmental Practices By Robert Thompson In July, popular tech website Gizmodo ran a story by writer Ashley Walker about changes to golf courses in Japan. The story's lead made Walker's perspective on the game clear as crystal: "Golf is a dying sport, and country club memberships are seen as an elitist relic of the past," she wrote. "But cultural changes are only one reason golf courses are falling out of favor: The chemical-laden, water-guzzling greens are especially irresponsible." hat’s the most recent diatribe against the game. A few THE BENEFIT OF T years ago the Guardian ran this: “The serious case against golf is empirical, and undeniable. That is its environmental SUSTAINABLE BUILDING Rarely does a superintendent get the impact. The construction and maintenance of golf courses is chance to shape the way a course will harmful to fragile ecosystems the world over. Its proliferation as interact with the environment from the international pastime of the leisure class is multiplying the its inception. But that’s exactly what problem, and its approval by governments and societies epitomises Jay Honeyball did at Oslerbrook near the wasteful and scurrilous approach to development that is replicated in miniature on millions of suburban lawns.” Collingwood. Alongside architect Golf, it seems, has done a poor job of battling back against these Graham Cooke, Honeyball worked perceptions. But increasingly there are some strong stories of golf hard to make sure the club, which has been open for a decade, met or superintendents whose strategies for their courses embrace their exceeded all of his environmental surrounding environments and even enhance them. “People see green golf courses and they immediately think high goals. Honeyball was all too aware inputs and lots of water,” says Jeff Stauffer, the superintendent at that golf has been at the receiving end of criticism for not being environmentally responsible, and he Rosedale Golf Club in Toronto. “But things often aren’t as they seem.” wanted to make sure Oslerbrook bucked any perceived trend. The truth is that golf courses and the superintendents that “It really came right down from the original owners and what they maintain them have changed and become far more environmentally wanted for the property,” he said. “And a lot of it has to do with the conscious. No longer is the “Spackler Syndrome,” a phrase coined design. There are 232 acres out here and I’m only managing over 100. for Bill Murray’s crazed superintendent in Caddyshack, common About half the property is given back to Mother Nature.” on Ontario courses. With that in mind, we talk to four Ontario supers about how they are One of the key issues for Honeyball was water use—or more specifically, not using water. The goal was not to use any water that being proactive and how golf contributes to the environment around it. wasn’t developed from the property. In fact, Cooke and Honeyball added wetlands to the property, and created an elaborate bio-filter system that allows the course to clean and reutilize water from rainfalls. He created Draingarde. And while Honeyball prides himself on the club’s Audubon certification, he’s continued to push Oslerbrook forward. Most recently he created a system called Draingarde that blocks the drains on the course when he’s applying anything that might disrupt the water system. The goal of Draingarde, which Honeyball has commercialized, is to try to eliminate surface water contamination of chemical applications. Even slight contamination is unnecessary, Honeyball says. Left to right: Cairn was constructed to celebrate the history ofthe land before Oslerbrook. The Ontario archeological society presented Osierbrook with an awardfor the initiative. All 13 ponds are 100% naturalized. All water is harvestedfrom springfreshetfor irrigation and stored in a 52 million gallon reservoir. No water is takenfrom the ground. Photos courtesy:Jay Honeyball To Honeyball’s way of thinking, golf is still being attacked by critics who aren’t aware of what is actually going on at the courses. “Is it fair? I don’t think so,” he says, noting the club’s new owner is also committed to Honeyball’s environmental program. “We’ve done everything we can to be as environmentally responsible as we can at Oslerbrook and we will continue to try to do more. That’s our goal.” DOCUMENTATION ELIMINATES MISUNDERSTANDINGS Before (below) and after (above) ofone To Jeff Stauffer’s way of thinking, ofthe areas included in the 25+ acres of the best way to battle back against renaturalized areas Phesant Run Golf misperceptions is to have stats to Club started in 2009. back up what you’re saying, and to be Photos courtesy: Andrew Hardy transparent in doing it. Stauffer came to Rosedale, located impact pesticides and other products have on developmental issues in in central Toronto, from Mississauga’s children, but he’s also pragmatic about the situation. To sell his owner Credit Valley and says while he has a on the need to make an environmental shift, he showed the benefits minimal approach to inputs at the club, on the club’s balance sheet. at the same time he recognizes that The club, seeking its Audubon certification, determined it there’s an absolute demand at his club renaturalize 22 acres of the 300-acre property, which includes 100 for top grade surfaces on fairways and greens. acres of forest. The effects were immediate: it enabled Pheasant “I’ve tightened up water use, and making sure we do proper soil Run to gain more time out of two staff, and instead of three staff and tissue tests,” he says. “Really in the end, we try to deliver a cutting rough six days a week, the club was able to cut it back to two quality playing surface while being careful with the inputs. That’s my employees cutting five days. overriding philosophy.” “I think everything that happens in this business happens because Stauffer has become a big proponent of letting people know of money,” he says. “That said, you need motivation to do the right exactly what he’s doing with his course. Misinformation is the biggest thing. If you have the motivation then financial change is easy. But it issue, he feels. And though only three people from the surrounding would have been easy to say, ‘Let’s keep this the same.’” neighborhood showed up at his recent IPM presentation, Stauffer The club utilized many of its key staff in reclaiming the 22 acres, still found it useful. with the golf pro, an outside consultant and the owner all offering “The feeling and tone of the questions were very different from what their input. Suddenly new wildlife started showing up on the course, I was used to,” he says. “They were very much interested in what I am and the club promoted the new look by having members and guests doing to reduce here. I think these meetings are an opportunity to get out add the names of animals they had seen to a log kept in the pro shop. in front and answer questions head on. If you answer them with exactly “It took a life of its own,” he says. “It helps change the perception what you’re doing, you might diminish some of those concerns. And you of the game.” represent the superintendents, and the club, who we work for.” Beyond that, Hardy was able to significantly drop his water use, But the key is documenting what he’s doing with the club so that eliminating 23,000 gallons of water that was used to irrigate the 22 he can demonstrate the club’s commitment to lessening its impact. In acres that were now left to grow naturally. the past much of this was anecdotal, but having clear records allows Right now Pheasant Run does not pay for its water use, and Hardy for an open dialogue. admits the Ministry of the Environment could charge the club at any “When you are sitting with Ministry of Environment staff and point. So judicious water use just makes sense, he argues. can’t show them data for the last 10 years, you don’t have anything In the end, every little bit counts, and it makes a difference. to support yourself,” he says. “When “It is 22 acres we’re not spraying or fertilizing,” Hardy says. “It is I look at 2015 versus 2000, we now small bits, but seven years later it adds up.” have documents to show we are The course has also publicized its environmental initiatives and doing the best we can.” outside agencies have recognized the achievement. Pheasant Run won the East Gwillimbury Environmental Business of the Year and the East Gwillimbury Chamber of Commerce Environmental Award. PRUDENT The Golf Course Superintendents Association of America has ENVIRONMENTAL also twice awarded Pheasant Run with a prestigious environmental PRACTICES BENEFIT leadership award. THE BOTTOM LINE “If I can speak to my owner in dollars and cents, and that gets Andrew Hardy has been an positive environmental things done, that’s good,” Hardy says. “At outspoken proponent of his club’s the same time it has brought some notoriety, and that’s positive too.” environmental practices for a variety of reasons. He’s worried about the ...continued on page 13 For information on our premium turf products contact your Evergro representative 855.228.2828 evergro@cpsagu.ca Crop Production Services (Canada) Inc. Evergro Division Continued from page 11... THE BENEFITS OF of a golf course. It has ENVIRONMENTAL been McFarlane’s goal STANDARDS to limit pesticides for some time, and though Greg McFarlane wanted his he says the recognition Toronto club to be perceived as a is good for Thornhill, leader when it came to environmental it wasn’t the reason he practices. But how would a club made the move. measure their successes? “I really think this is where things are headed,” he says. McFarlane was approached McFarlane feels golf courses are considered by those outside of the by Global Organic Partners, a sport as not being beneficial for the environment. But in an urban group that uses Environmental area like Toronto, Thornhill’s green space is a respite from the endless Impact Quotient to determine the roads, houses and commercial buildings. Yes, McFarlane admits that environmental effect of a club’s golf courses once used products that were harsh and had mercury in maintenance practices. While it is not them, but that’s in the past. an inexpensive program, McFarlane “I think people would be surprised by our environmental practices,” thought it was very important to be able to grade where Thornhill he says. “The general perception is we fertilize, spray and water a lot. was when it came to the environment. The club was recently given an But I think my peers are trying to reduce as much as they can. I think EIQ_score of 129, the lowest among any course in the SCOREGolf people have the perception and the reality is something else. We’ve Top 100 Courses in Canada. A typical club has an EIQscore closer to only sprayed our fairways once this year.” 1,000. And the result is good for the environment and saves cash. “This hasn’t happened overnight, but it really shows Thornhill as “I’ve saved more than I’ve spent on Global Organic Partners,” he a leader when it comes to the environment,” says McFarlane. “We’re said. “And this year I’ve dropped my chemical budget by $10,000 and now getting to the point where we’re maintaining playability without my fertilizer budget by $13,000. So for me it is a win-win and for the using a lot of pesticides and maintaining fertility without overusing environment.” fertilizers.” The EIQconcept was developed at Cornell University, and involves Golfanalystfor Global Television, and the bestselling author offive books, approximately 10 key indicators that show the environmental impact Robert Thompson lives in London, Ont. 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 1975 - 2015 www.turfcare.ca Helping Your Business Grow For Forty Years GC HIGHLIGHT I MEMBER PROFILE Annandale Golf & Curling Club 221 Church Street South Ajax, Ontario, L1S 0A1 Member Since 2001 Tel: 905-683-3210 ¡nfo@annandalegolfclub.com Ken Nelski Superintendent, Annandale Golf & Curling Club annandalegolfclub.com by Kevin Kobzan, Granite Golf Club his trade, his first interest was not studying turf, rather following human evolution. cquiring an aptitude towards a particular Both archeology and anthropology intrigued A field is something that takes time and Nelski, with his fascination expanding into dedication. In order to manage our respectivepaleontology. After high school Nelski About the Course golf courses to the best of our ability, gaining travelled to Europe and at this time was Nestled in the attractive valley of Duffin's knowledge in all facets of the industry goes accepted to The University of British Creek in the town of Ajax, the Annandale Golf a long way. For Ken Nelski, Superintendent Columbia for Anthropology and Arts. “The & Curling club is an average-length, 18-hole at Annandale Golf and Curling Club, his whole concept of evolution interested me, course that offers an excellent retreat for a exposure to many different golf courses has and I always loved the paleontology aspect of turned out to be not only a great wealth of it,” said Nelski. game of golf. The course is a par 71 measuring experience, but also a great asset in his career. Prior to his enrollment at UBC, Nelski approximately 6,000 yards. At 40 years of age, Nelskis involvement spent four seasons at Beacon Hall as a back Established: 1963 with golf has taken him to various properties shop employee (1986-89) before venturing and a different province, all the while working on to the maintenance department at St. Original Architect: Donald Annan and managing at golf courses with different Andrews Valley. Here he joined his brother Type of Club: Semi-private / Public budget constraints. This has allowed him Chris, currently Assistant Superintendent at to gain valuable experience towards the The Marshes in Ottawa, for his first peek Size of Membership: 270 maintenance of clubs with different demands. at maintaining a golf course. He spent Number of Holes: 18 In his 28 years of working on golf courses, three seasons there developing his turf Number of Rounds Annually: 50,000 Nelski has observed and obtained valuable maintenance skills before heading out west information, leading him to a career he loves. for university. Following his first academic Practice Facility: Even though his devotion and respect for year, Nelski returned for his last summer at Driving range and four hole executive. golf has given him a great appreciation for St. Andrews, as he would find employment In the Hot Seat traffic on small greens with limited resources, you need to be budget conscious,” Nelski Q: Favourite golf tournament? Q: Favourite designer? admits. “But this is something I like, you need A: The Masters A: Stanley Thompson to be ingenious, you need to use your brain to Q: Favourite piece of turf Q: Ultimate foursome? figure things out.” equipment? A: My brother, my father and Also, with the golf course routed around A: Verti-Drain Bill Murray Duffins Creek, Nelski has often had to deal Q: Favourite golf course? Q: Lowest round and where? with flooding on a few holes, which can be A: Shaughnessy G&CC A: 78 at Point Grey G&CC challenging due to the silt deposit. “It will go up 15 feet, usually during the spring and fall,” he says. “All my heads get clogged and we end up spending a day cleaning out nozzles, so it at Point Grey Golf Club the following year lot of drainage in those years. You would get can be quite a challenge.” in B.C. While working at Point Grey he three weeks of rain and members chomping Through his tenure in golf, Nelski has met discovered that his passion for turf ran deeper at the bit to play, but because of the drainage many people who have helped him along the than he thought and that this may influence we installed the course would be ready to play way, most notably John Trelford who was the his career direction. the next day.” superintendent at St. Andrews Valley and At this point he decided to put aside his In 2000 Nelski decided to return home Frank Vargas, Superintendent at Point Grey. first aspiration and work towards another taking a job at Maple Downs as the irrigation He credits Vargas for being a great motivator pastime, attending Kwantlen College for their technician before getting the second assistant’s and Trelford for his fairness and intellect. three year horticulture and turf program.” job at Wooden Sticks. He worked there for Both men were influential in his decision to Although I had an interest for archeology and three years until he accepted the assistant’s job pursue turf as a career. This has helped shape anthropology, I wasn’t prepared to remain in at Lakeridge Links. Nelski feels this is where Nelski’s approach with his own staff. “Thank school for that long,” says Nelski. “Golf was he learned a different approach to managing a you goes a long way, especially after a hard always in the back of my mind; I always liked golf course. “After Point Grey, Maple Downs day”, he says. “One of the things I do enjoy the outdoors, the physical aspect of it and not and Wooden Sticks I had exposure to higher sitting in an office.” is getting the younger guys, who have zero end clubs, both private and public. When Nelski spent seven years improving upon experience even with a basic tool, and watch I switched and went to Lakeridge it was a them mature over just a few years.” his craft at Point Grey. In his third season reality check. You really need to use your head Overall Nelski is happy with his decision to he was promoted to the assistant’s position for everyday stuff because you don’t have the pursue turf maintenance as a career, because and that is when he became fully engaged in resources available”, admits Nelski. he has had the opportunity to work on many the industry. “One of the many attractions of After seven years at Lakeridge, Nelski different golf courses and see an array of this job is you are always learning, there is no became Superintendent at Annandale in different landscapes. All these experiences monotony,” says Nelski. 2010, a job he enjoys from sunrise to sundown. have helped transform him into a turf During his tenure out west he not only “I look forward to work every day, even with enthusiast and allow him to appreciate the learned how to manage day to day operations, waking up at 4 am. My wife thinks I am nuts,” but he also learned to grow grass in a much industry he is a part of. ■ says Nelski. “The day you don’t look forward different climate. “The biggest thing out to going to work is the day you should find a there is getting rid of water because of the different job.” extensive rain fall,” says Nelski. “We did a Not only is his enthusiasm second to none, he is also appreciative of the bond shared with other clubs. Seven other properties, Lakeridge, What You Need to Know Whispering Ridge, Pickering Golf, Eldorado Golf Club, Riverside Golf Club, Winchester Predominant Grass Type: Poa annua / Bentgrass Golf Club and Stonehenge Golf Club all fall Predominant Soil Type: Loam / Silt under the same ownership. The golf season can throw many curve balls at a turf manager Type of Greens: Push Up and that is why this group of clubs leans on Course Length: 6,100 yards each other through the constant exchange of Size of Property: 160 acres information. “We are all in contact all the time - there is a lot of help agronomically and we Size of Greens: 1.75 acres can all rely on each other. It is a family within Size of Tees: 1.25 acres a family”, says Nelski and this is something all eight clubs appreciate. Size of Fairways: 23 acres Although he loves his job and the property he manages, many challenges present themselves, and this is something Nelski thrives on. He enjoys the opportunity to find Maintenance Challenges answers to problems, making do with what Ken Nelski with his two dogs, Meekah, left, and Small green sites, high traffic and flood(s). is available to him. “The course sees heavy Milo, right. By Kevin Kozban, Granite Golf Club Photos by Doug Erwin & Angus Glen Golf Club t the 1904 Olympics Canadian golf hall of famer George S. Lyon New Course Delivers As A defeated H. Chandler Egan for the gold medal at Glen Echo Country Club in St. Louis, Missouri. This event marked the last time golf would be included at the Olympics for over a century. That is a ANGUS GLEN long time, 112 years to be exact. During this hiatus, the Toronto Maple Leafs and The Masters were founded, just to give you an idea of how long it has been since golf has experienced an Olympic style event. The Golf Club game remained on the outside looking in until this year, when it was included in the line-up of sports at the 2015 Pan Am Games and it will re-join the Olympic Games next year in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Hosts 2015 History was made, as 63 athletes from 20 different countries, vied for gold supremacy at host Angus Glen Golf Club in Markham, Ontario. The club is no stranger to accommodating large events, holding Pan Am Games the 2002 and 2007 Canadian Opens, but this was the inaugural competition to be held on their newly renovated South Course. The challenge to host an event the size of the Pan Am Games, third largest but they did know, it didn’t faze them international multi-sport event in the world, was a first for both the and the venue seemed right.” With the city of Toronto and Angus Glen, which makes Superintendent Doug City of Markham fully behind them, Erwin very proud to be a part of it. the Games were officially heading With a plethora of experience hosting both large and small to Angus Glen. With a full golf tournaments, Angus Glen boasts not only a challenging golf course, course renovation in the cross hairs, but the facilities and infrastructure necessary to entertain large crowds. the pressure for those involved to “The Pan Am Games really falls into place for us because we are all deliver was about to begin. about hosting events and making them into something personal,” says As technology progresses and the Erwin. “We are always looking to be a little different from everyone costs to sustain businesses continuing to else, so this means a lot for us because nobody has done it and we will rise, reconstruction was deemed necessary to have been the first. That keeps us ahead of the curve in that respect.” an aging course from a maintenance and player The city of Toronto got the bid to host the Games on November 6, perspective. Erwin and company wanted to create 2009, while Angus Glen got the news that they would be hosting the efficiencies in the day to day operations while updating golf event in early 2013, while planning for renovations to the South the property. They wanted to correct performance Course. “We didn’t renovate the golf course for the Pan Am Games, issues on greens and bunkers, while decreasing fertility that process really began in 2010 as we were looking for efficiencies and and water use by adding approximately 20 acres of where to save money in the operation of the club,” says Erwin. “We fescue, eliminating large expanses of maintained rough. got the bid to be the site and I was wondering if they knew we were going to be renovating because it was a lofty goal in terms of timeline, ...continued on page 18 Continued from page 17... Additionally, they wanted to stay competitive amongst professional ensure their expectations were met.” Erwin acknowledges the efforts players, while remaining an enjoyable outing for newer and average of other Angus Glen employees, including Lori Saint, Director of golfers. The goal was to create and maintain a course that could Food and Beverage, Terry Kim, Head Golf Professional and Paul cater to all skill levels. “We felt like we needed to do the renovations Shaw, Director of Construction and Facility Maintenance for their before the Pan Am Games because they fell into something we were involvement with the entire process. “There was a lot of work done renovating for,” says Erwin. “We wanted to stay challenging for behind the scenes that (we) as golf people probably don’t think future Canadian Opens or tournaments like the Pan Am Games, we about,” says Erwin. “It was almost easiest for me because we are just needed that upgrade.” getting the golf course ready.” During the redesign Erwin worked closely with architect Martin During the week leading up to the opening round, a heightened Ebert ofMckenzie and Ebert International Design Team, both familiar level of security was instituted to ensure the event was safe. Drones with each other from the construction of Goodwood Golf Club. with cameras were set up daily to scour the grounds from above to Erwin praises Ebert’s hands-on approach and ability to include others spot any irregularities, with a huge police presence on the ground in decisions to leave behind a manageable golf course. Although the scouting the property. “I don’t know how many hundreds of police original layout was built by architect Doug Carrick, a lot of thought was officers were here walking side to side throughout the whole put into incorporating his design with the new one. “It was a tough property,” says Erwin. “The security protocols were set by Pan Am decision because Carrick designed both the North and South courses and they needed to be followed at every event. Everybody had to and we wanted to leave some of the Carrick feel in it,” says Erwin. be accredited beforehand to get on site, including the guy delivering As the rebuild and grow-in neared completion, the stage was being bread. It was an incredible process.” set for the Pan Am Games. At the beginning of 2014, preparation Those security protocols also played a part in acquiring volunteers was underway and requirements by the Pan Am group were being set. to help with the added turf maintenance requirements during the “The club as a whole had a larger number of deliverables required in event. The strict process made it not even worth the effort to recruit stages,” says Erwin. “They had a lot of information they required to volunteers from the turf industry. Even though a lot of people were www.mastersturfsupply.com Corrie Almack P.Ag. P.O.Box 629 Office: 519-510-TURF (8873) Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 80 William St. W. Fax:519-510-8875 Box 256, Carlisle, ON Cell: (416) 580-5152 Harriston, ON, NOG 1Z0 Email: mastersturf@wightman.ca LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca interested, two volunteers were added, John Bladon and his wife Sabrina. “He was a huge part of us coming up with the greens specs for the renovation and a lot of our programs leading up to the games,” says Erwin. “He is a good friend and it was great having him here.” Golf Canada convened the event, giving a list of requirements to follow. Erwin says that the rules they wanted to govern the tournament were not too far-fetched. “Essentially, there is not a lot of stringent requirements,” says Erwin. “They don’t want the greens rolling at 13, they want to have a little control on how the course is playing.” As the practice rounds approached there was still a laundry list of items to take care of, but as time dwindled the course would have to stand on its 9 ways to Healthy Turf own. “What a difference between the day it starts and the week before it starts—huge in terms of the pressure and stress you are feeling. respond® 3 grows your turf health Once the tournament got under way the maintenance staff would work split shifts, taking advantage of the time they were allotted. from the roots up Mornings would allow for greens preparation, removal of dew, cutting of competition tees, hole changing and anything that needed Increased depth of water penetration: sprucing up. The majority of cutting and bunker work took place 1 Increases rooting depth in the evening. Other than the schedule and being very tired it was business as usual. “We were just ready for it,” says Erwin. “We had 2 Aids survival in drought conditions our schedules set and we needed to hit our marks.” The only issue that arose was when a competitor jarred her approach shot into the 3 Favours deeper rooting grasses fifth hole, damaging the cup. Under certain rules the hole can be Water soaks in more evenly: moved if deemed unplayable by the rules official. “They sent us out to fix it, we used tooth picks to try and hold it for the rest of the day 4 Avoids puddling and then hole-in-white again to harden the edge,” says Erwin. Considering the importance of the event the contrast between 5 Helps with drainage the Pan Am tournament and Canadian Opens is different in scope. Not only were the number of competitors lower, but the number More even water distribution/retention: of spectators and media coverage were considerably smaller as well. 6 Better use of water may reduce the need On average, 2000 tickets were sold daily, however during the PGA event, approximately 10,000 patrons roamed the property per day. for irrigation 42 acres of farm land adjacent to the north and south course was 7 Improved turf colour devoted to parking for the Canadian Open, while only 25 per cent of that land was used for the Pan Am Games. With the number of Reduction in the symptoms of localized dry spot: spectators smaller, less damage to areas of the golf course occurred. “It’s funny because people stayed out of the fescue. I expected the 8 More even playing surface fescue to get trampled, but they stayed to the cart path,” says Erwin. 9 Healthier turf “They were well behaved, it was a different type of atmosphere.” As the tournament came to a close all those involved were elated with the outcome, including Erwin who was very impressed with those Grow your turf health on his side of things. He recognizes the efforts of his entire staff, most from the roots up with notably Assistant Superintendent, Dan North and Second Assistants, Chris Jones and Jack Nobile, as well as Equipment Technicians, Randy Noel and Kevin Hennigar. Erwin is also appreciative of the efforts of Kyle Whitman and Adam Haines from Goodwood Golf Club. “All of these individuals worked many hours in preparation. I couldn’t have asked for anything more from my staff,” says Erwin. “They were all here, paid attention to detail and they rose to the challenge. I don’t think from my side of things that the event could have gone any better in terms of conditioning of the golf course.” With the success of the renovation coupled with a great Pan Am Ontario & Maritimes: 1-800-265-5444 experience, Angus Glen showcased its new look on an international West: 1-800-561-5444 scale, and are now looking forward to the future. “We like to be BC: 1-604-534-8815 known globally and we have risen to the occasion and showed Quebec: 1-800-361-9369 www.uap.ca everyone listening we are here, we are just as good as we used to be, Always read and follow label directions. perhaps better, and we can still hold these events.” ■ Respond 3 is a registered trademark of Loveland Products. Inc. The Merits Of A 'Short' Course An Alternative to Traditional Course Design By Cam Tyers the belief that they must hit a driver or play the game to a larger demographic. I think standard length holes to feel satisfied, either short courses also provide an opportunity to he final project I worked on before from a financial value or exercise perspective, get walking back into the game. Moreover, T leaving Carrick Design was Turnberry may feel that a course with mostly par 3s is Golf Course in Brampton. I was givennot right for them. I would counter that they also tackle one of golf’s most polarizing issues—the length of time it takes to play. complete control of the project from initial notion by suggesting it is the quality of each The lesser time requirements cater to those routings to overseeing the project in the field. hole and overall experience of a golf facility for whom it is a premium—which is pretty It was clear from the start that this project, that determines the value derived by a golfer. much everyone these days. Par 3 holes which was being built in 88 acres, was perfect That was the mindset when we sat down with also have a greater potential at creating for something different—an alternative to ownership to discuss the goal for Turnberry. excitement and interest for a golfer. When what is typically being built these days. In many ways, short courses are better you have these two ingredients present in Early concepts, which called for a hole it becomes memorable for more acreage, included routings the golfer. With one view and one featuring six par 4s or 5s and 12 shot to execute to the final target, Even though I had been involved with some par 3s, as well as a practice range. I believe the golfer remembers that A reduction in acreage changed challenging builds, such as Bigwin Island image with more frequency than a our initial concepts and opened and Eagles Nest, I was not prepared for the par 4 or 5 that require two or three up another opportunity. What shots to arrive at the final target. evolved was a short course offering unpredictability of unstable ground. One of the keys to stimulating a different way to experience golf. interest for the Turnberry course With sixteen par 3s and two par 4s, was creating interesting green it was neither typical in length or complexes. Bold internal contours amount of time needed to play. suited within or in close proximity to large combined with decent sized putting surfaces, Short courses are an interesting and I urban centres because of reduced land and short grass bailout areas, were my believe viable alternative to regulation length requirements. The immediacy to major inspiration for creating a memorable playing golf facilities. The golfer who is locked in to centres provides a better chance of exposing experience. Another guiding principle was variety in length of shots. It was important to have the golfer use every club in their bag. However, executing these design thoughts on the Turnberry site would prove more challenging than I had anticipated. Even though I had been involved with some challenging builds, such as Bigwin Island and Eagles Nest, I was not prepared for the unpredictability of unstable ground. What also became clear was the importance of not bringing in too much fill. On the surface this 88-acre parcel presented a neat, tidy project that theoretically could have been built in one season. Unfortunately nothing was further from the truth. Constructing Turnberry taught me the importance of knowing as much about the history of a site as you can, particularly one that had been used for dumping, as this site was once an active aggregate pit. After being mined of its valuable resource, it became a dumping area for fill, not an uncommon Involving a superintendentfrom the start ofthe project helped overcome some ofthe challenge inherent in building Tumberry. By using outsidefill, Turnberry was turnedfrom a wasteland into a courses laden with dunes that looked like they've been thereforyears. scenario as pit owners begin to look for it so that it would not fail again, and finally the better they are able to react to both future alternative uses. An empty pit can generate reinstalled the drainage and green mix. problems and opportunities. income by providing a home for fill. There This was costly both in terms of time and The turf and construction team assembled are stringent guidelines for filling, but it is an dollars. It would not be the only time that for Turnberry was headed by Brent Rogers. accepted way to rehabilitate a pit. Nowadays we encountered this type of subgrade failure Brent, a talented golf course builder, in imported fill must be highly scrutinized for within a green. addition to being the Director of Turf at hazardous material or inorganic material One aspect of importing fill to consider Eagles Nest Golf Course (at the time), before it is dumped. However, this was not is the financial gain can offset construction oversaw the construction of the course. The always the case. Many years before a golf costs. Another side is importing too much fill daily construction duties of the site were course was even contemplated at Turnberry, can make it difficult to complete areas within handled initially by Mark McIvor, and then fill had been deposited on this site. Anything a scheduled time frame. At Turnberry we taken over by Shane Courtney. Both men had could have been in that fill. created very significant and bold landforms tutored under Brent during the building and When I first viewed Turnberry, I thought within the site to separate holes from one grow-in of Eagles Nest. Shane looked after there were several areas where minimal another. However, the idea of adding more daily turf responsibilities and has continued grading would be required. I remember fill was always part of the financial model. in that role. looking at the future location of the 11th At times we struggled to complete areas To date Turnberry has been well received. green as one such area. It possessed two because of the possibility of adding more fill. The idea of a course with predominantly outstanding rolls, one from the north and Eventually we had reached our importing par 3s is still a new concept for golfers, one from the south, that appeared as if they threshold where financial gain was being but I believe it is providing a much needed intersected, yet were a decent distance apart diminished by project delay. alternative for both new and existing from each other. It was a unique location Running into examples such as the golfers. ■ for the green. subgrade failure is one instance where having In the summer of 2008 the green was the superintendent involved at an early stage Cam Tyers worked for Carrick Design before shaped, drained and green mix installed. In can be invaluable. The more intimate a launching his ownfirm, Cam Tyers Design. He the spring of 2009 I was now looking at a superintendent's knowledge is of the property, can be reached at cam@camtyersdesign.com. large depression in the back part of the green that was not part of the design. Even though I was not shy about undulation within greens, the depression I was looking at was INNOVATORS IN Helps prevent Ice Damage severe. Over the winter months and after IMPERMEABLE Crown Hydration spring thaw a section of the subgrade had WINTER PROTECTION Desiccation settled to a new resting place. The summer Temperature Fluctuations before we had thoroughly compacted the Low Temperature Kill subgrade during the building of this green to the point where it felt more like a highway than a green cavity, so it was surprising to see the failure in the subgrade. Learn more! Find 20 Years of Research To correct the problem we removed the at GreenJacket.com or call 888-786-2683 patented greens mix and the drainage on the back half in U.S. and of the green, removed the bad fill, installed Canada geotextile, brought in new fill and engineered 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 Training: It's A Process, Not An Event by Mark Thompson, McKinley Solutions stories are rooted in facts, but their messages are driven at the heart not the head, and that makes them the strongest tool in your training raining is often viewed in the Canadian golf industry as something toolbox. We would recommend, The Story Factor by Annette Simmons, T that is required to meet compliance, and to a large extent that is very and the classic Harvard Business Review article by Stephen Denning true. The challenge is that training is all too often viewed as an eventcalled, Telling Tales, as an opportunity to learn more about storytelling and not a process. True learning happens over time and requires regular as a leader. As a trainer look for Stolovitch’s, Telling Ain't Training, as a reinforcement to stick. Statistics show that if no reinforcement is a part great resource. of your learning plan than 30 days after the training event occurs your One unique challenge the golf industry faces is the high turnover ability to apply it on the job is less than 10 per cent! That is an ROI and seasonality of the business, so the best in class challenge for their (return on investment) that is just not acceptable and can be overcome supervisors is to document the learning stories as they happen throughout very easily by operational leadership and a little bit of planning. the season. In doing so you create a story book that grows over time from First and foremost, we need to remember that we are training adults “what not to do stories” to the stories that share the team pulling together and they learn differently than children, so why is it that most training is for a major event. If learning stories are not documented then they cannot merely the talking head lecture style of a traditional classroom? The game be shared with the consistency needed for others to learn from. has changed, but training is still lagging behind. We are not suggesting The final piece to increase the stickness of your training is more multi­ you go out and spend money that media. With more technology in the you do not have; your leadership average pocket than there was in an team can handle a practical approach entire office building 25 years ago, On the job training is critical, no question, to high performance and efficiency it is easy to add multimedia to your from your full team. but does not have the same "stickness" as training and your learning loops. If Here is your challenge as an you can take a picture of it, do it! operational leader for training. Look planned learning opportunities. If you can make a video of it, do it! at the lessons that you are teaching, A picture of what a clean mower from out on the course to handling a looks like verses a dirty mower is a team meeting. Then take the full season of about six months and establish lot more powerful than a checklist. Look to your suppliers of the tools, 6-12 follow up learning opportunities. We call these learning loops technology and resources you use each day for multi-media resources because you are looping back to the content that was shared previously. they have. Be mindful though that you need to provide context at your They should last for 5 - 10 minutes and this applies to training for an course to make it really stick and do not forget those learning loops to individual or a group. Every two weeks provide reinforcement and your ensure reinforcement. productivity will increase and your engagement will increase. These The biggest pet peeve I have is when operational leaders say to me, “I learning opportunities are great stretch challenges for your supervisors so told them how to do it (in April) and they just do not get it (in July)”. the work does not always fall to you. More often than not it is the training that needs to change, not the staff. The key, and I cannot stress this enough, is that these are not adhoc These are great times we have in the industry and a great future, and I or on the fly, rather they are planned and well thought out. On the job hope after reading this I have challenged you to look at your training training is critical, no question, but does not have the same “stickness” as differently. If you are like some, your course training may require an planned learning opportunities. The difference being that one situation update so take advantage of this information. Training and development is reactionary and the other is proactive. So I challenge you to look at is key to your success, and do keep in mind it is also why staff leave your training and if it consists of one directional lecture with some hands an organization 72 per cent of the time. Operational leaders can do on training in April and then the rest is more or less reactionary, then you something about it and the potential is exciting! ■ have a great opportunity to take it to the next level. The next piece that I will share is something that has been around Mark Thompson - President McKinley Solutions, Learning specialists for years. It is storytelling. We all love a great story. It cuts past our with over 10 years of experience in the golf industry focused on leadership, preconceptions and connects us to the content being shared. Training team development and organizational change. Innovative Learning, improved performance, www. mckinleysolutions. com See us for all our Fertility & Plant Protection needs David C. Smith, P.Ag., c.g.c.s. 550 Musquash Road Soil & Turfgrass Consultant Gravenhurst, Ontario Custom Blending | Stabilized Nitrogen | Golf & Landscape Products | Speare Seed Dealers P1P1R2 RO. Box 370 Bolton, ON L7E5T3 Telephone: 905-857-2000 Fax:905-857-8215 Office (705) 687-SOIL (7645) alisona@agri-turf.ca | 1-800-268-4425 Fax (705) 687-3518 Toll Free 1 -888-607-TURF (8873) Cell (905) 512-6004 dave@dcsturf.com www.allianceagri-turf.com BEST OF THE BLOGS Maintaining a Golf Course During Drought About the blog The purpose of this blog is to share information by Josh Clevenger, Superintendent, of becoming more efficient users of water and on the maintenance of the golf course and Claremont Country Club, we are prepared to maintain the course nicely California, USA throughout the drought. grounds here at Claremont Country Club. We are constantly looking at ways to be s we all know California is in the midst daremontturf.blogspot.ca more efficient with our use of water. We A of a record drought. While we did get evaluate the efficiency of our irrigation system some much needed rains early this season, rainon a daily basis. The course is inspected daily Contributor: Josh Clevenger, Superintendent totals are well below average for the fourth for wet spots or dry spots and irrigation run straight year. Temperatures have also been times are adjusted accordingly. Irrigation leaks is applied to a given area of turf. Our in-the- abnormally high during this period. Since are detected and repaired quickly. My goal ground soil sensor data can be monitored in real January 1, the average high temperature has has always been - no wet spots! This month, time from our desk top and handheld devices. been 70 degrees with just 3.4 inches of rain we will be going through sprinkler heads in With our on-site weather station, we falling. Last month, Governor Jerry Brown fairways replacing all nozzles and checking have the ability to monitor weather data mandated a 25 per cent reduction of the use of pressure to ensure proper coverage is achieved in real time as well. The weather station potable water. While we are fortunate to have and water is applied as efficiently as possible. communicates with our irrigation computer a good supply of non-potable water to irrigate We’ve used handheld and in-the-ground calculating daily evapotranspiration (ET) the golf course with, we must be responsible soil sensor technology to monitor soil moisture rates. This information is downloaded to the and show we can and will do the right thing levels for years now. The use of these sensors irrigation computer and used to determine for the course and environment. Over the allows us to properly monitor soil moisture appropriate sprinkler run times insuring we years, we have accomplished much in the way and insure that the correct amount of water are replacing just the amount of water used EXPERIENCE Colour MATTERS Producing, installing and servicing Well Played the highest quality sod for golf courses Douglas Wood Large Tree Service can add fall colour to your course with the help of Paul Hanousek, Certified Arborist www.douglaswood.ca Paul Hanousek, Certified Arborist Members of OGSA, ISA and OCAA 1.800.353.3019 T. 519.856.2771 • F. 519.856.1447 Serving Ontario and Surrounding Areas paulhanousek@douglaswood.ca P.O. Box 339 Rockwood ON NOB 2K0 1-800-367-6995 • GreenhorizonsSod.com by the turf and lost to evaporation (ET). Over the last five years, we have seeded the tees, approaches and fairways at times of aeration with a drought tolerant chewings fine fescue seed. This turf requires approximately 10 per cent of the water needed by many other cool season grasses. Each year, as our stand of fine fescue multiplies, we are able to manage One ofthe best views across more for the fescue and in turn use less water. the course, brown grass and all. There will be times when the weaker grasses stress due to drought conditions and this is part water more efficiently. These organic fertilizers drought. The majority of increase in the golf of managing toward the desired turf species. make up nearly 70 per cent of all fertilizers maintenance budget over the last few years has The use of soil surfactants (wetting agents) applied to the course. been directly related to the practices discussed is an important part of our agronomic plan. A If you are on the golf course during the here and I commend the club for supporting soil surfactant is a material that allows us to be summer months, you have no doubt seen the the golf course in such a way. more efficient with our water by helping the soil staff out hand watering various turf areas. There The fascination with a wall to wall green golf to better hold on to water applied. Surfactants is no more efficient way to deliver water to the course in California should have changed years aid in breaking surface tension of tight soil/turf desired location than through hand watering. ago. As a responsible member of the community conditions allowing water to better penetrate We have invested a lot of time, effort and the golf industry, we should be doing all we into the root zone helping to move water deeper and resources into providing a high level of can to limit the amount ofwater we use, mandate and more evenly. This promotes better rooting turf condition while being environmentally or no mandate. Greens, tees and fairways can of turf and a more healthy soil condition. The responsible with our use of water. Many of the and will be kept in top condition, but we need to club invested in an injection system last year to above practices were implemented years ago, get used to rough and areas out of play becoming deliver these materials onto the course via the well before the drought. While these changes more natural, un-irrigated and brown. As we irrigation system. to our program have resulted in improved move through the summer months, there will be Organic fertilizers are an important part playability of the golf course, they have also more areas of off color turf and that is OK. It of building healthy soils and healthy soils use put us in position to better weather the current will come back when it rains. ■ It's more than "just" a penetrant. • Reduce runoff on sloped turf areas by 20% or more • Enhance penetration and distribution of water and nutrients • Reduce water use on cool-season grasses by 25% or more • Maintain turf quality at reduced ET replacements rates 800-257-7797 • www.aquatrols.com OFF THE FAIRWAY Top Five Garden Plants For Golf Courses What You Need to Know to Make the Right Selection or this edition of Green is Beautiful I throughout the winter. mention in regards to my earlier statement about F compiled a top five list of plants to use in gardens in a golf course environment. ■ Pest resistance: If the deer won’t eat it, I want it. I’m also talking about mildews, the golf course environment. Firstly, choosing the right plants for the right location is a must, The criteria for making my list is as follows: as most of you may already know. Trying to aphids and other pests that commonly ■ Water requirements: Does not need force something to grow in conditions it doesn’t affect certain species of plants. a lot of water to perform at its best and like can be time consuming and costly. For can tolerate some drought like conditions ■ Structure and hardiness: I’m looking example, growing something near a tee deck without aesthetic value or plant health for plants that do not require staking and that may get watered often in times of drought. being compromised. can support themselves through whatever This may cause mist getting onto nearby plant Mother Nature throws at them. We in material that is susceptible to mildews or other ■ Flowering time or season of peak the north see a lot of snow and really cold disease caused by excessively moist conditions. interest: For our location the peak season winter temperatures. With the amount of Secondly, providing proper soil conditions is of interest is in July and August. That is snow we receive we can see long periods of also very important for overall plant health. If when we see the most traffic on the golf wet soils through the thaw and crushing you can accomplish these two basic things you course so that is when everything should weights from snow loads through the will increase your chances of success greatly, look at its best. So for me I’m looking for winter months. So, I’m looking for plants resulting in healthy plants and savings on time, bloom times from July to August or plants that can handle some wet feet in the spring fertilizers, water, spray products and new plants that are their most attractive at those and the ability to support some weight to replace the ones that you would have had to times. without having to be pruned in the spring. give up on. ■ Length of bloom time or interest: Some ■ Invasiveness or growth habit: Some Now, moving on to my list of favourites and plants bloom for one week, while others why I chose them. Please note that these are in plants spread like crazy underground and for well over a month when we consider no particular order. can take over a garden and others throw some perennials. Obviously annuals a ton of viable seed that you’ll be pulling RUDBECKIA 'GOLDSTRUM' bloom for months on end. When it comes out of your garden in the spring. Avoiding I know this plant is in many gardens across to grasses and shrubs there are many that species with these characteristics is a must. North America and it is an easy one, but based have high aesthetic value from spring to Before we go any further with my favourites on my criteria it is a no brainer and a staple to fall as their shape or foliage colour change there are a couple of things I would like to the low maintenance plant category. The only throughout the growing year and even negative thing I personally have to say about it is that it is not deer resistant. This may be a key factor to consider if you have deer grazing delivering superior sod and qualityservice in your area. • #1 Kentucky Bluegrass CROCOSMIA 'LUSCIFER' • NEW Bella Bluegrass! This is a bulb and it works great as a cut • Extreme Fescue flower. The flower colour is a striking red that • Premium Bentgrass can be seen from a distance and the individual * Custom grown flowers can be greatly appreciated up close. sod available Even when it is not in flower, the sword-like, * Large or small rolls upright leaves of dark green provide a nice * Low mow texture when used in contrast to finer textures. ASTILBE I have nothing bad to say about any of the Living-Breathing- hundred varieties of astilbe that are out there. REALGRASS IS Ranging in flower times from early summer to early fall, heights from 8" to 4", and flower BETTER! colours including red, white, multiple shades of HEALTHIER! pink and lavender. You can design an entire garden with astilbe varieties alone, and be quite successful in doing so. These are perfect Phone:877-727-2100 17525 Jane St. | Kettleby, Ontario | L7B0J6 www.zandersod.com plants for areas that get direct morning sun and appreciate afternoon shade. They will do Astilbe, pictured left, is at the 1st tee at Muskoka Lakes Golfand Country Club flower transitions to seed the entire structure of the plant changes as well - It goes from being airy and light while in flower to rigid and very upright while in seed. Unfortunately I can only say so much. My list is much longer than just the five plants I have mentioned today. I hope my criteria well to brighten full shade areas as well. Give its silvery green foliage, excellent shape and list is helpful when it comes to the decision them rich, moist soil and keep them out of flowering length. making process when choosing plants for baking afternoon sun and these will perform CALAMAGROSTIS your locations. Feel free to contact me with amazingly. I am much more interested in using bright any design questions or if you’re interested in NEPETA 'CATMINT1 colours, but based on my criteria this grass knowing what else is on my list. ■ This plant, also known as Catmint, as definitely makes the list. Calamagrostis ‘karl simple as it is, I think is extremely underrated. Foerster’, much like Rudbeckia, it is often It performs well in any soil condition, it is used, but there is no denying the visual impact Chris Cumming CLP, drought tolerant, it seems to bloom forever and that can be achieved using this plant on its Horticulturist when the plant finally appears to be getting own as a specimen or en masse. From spring Muskoka Lakes Golf tired it can be pruned to the base and within to fall it is an amazing performer especially and Country Club a couple of weeks you have another perfectly during the weeks it transitions from flower to Port Carling, Ontario mounded plant again carrying soft purple seed. The colour change can be seen almost chriscumming@live.ca flowers. Catmint, when planted en masse, daily starting with a light pink, to weeks later Tel: 705-765-3165 has great impact from spring to fall due to being in seed and showing light brown. As the Cell: 705-644-3994 Delivering Value Through Creative Solutions! From tees, greens and fairways to the surrounding club house areas, we can help enhance the visual appeal of your golf club. Whatever the project size, we have the products, services and knowledge to help you landscape your course. • Expert Staff • Proven Winners® Diamond Level Plants will • Delivery Service (Crane Service Grower For Local Deliveries) • Network Grower For Endless Summer® enhance the • Quick Order Turnaround Time & First Editions® Collections visual appeal of • Perennials Available in 1,2, and 5 gallon • Environmental Growing Practices Canadds Largest Container Grower your Golf Club Eric Ruberto Wholesale Landscape Sales Representative Tel: 416-798-7970 ext. 268 Toll Free: 1-888-676-2020 Cell: 289-924-0915 Fax: 905-873-9591 E-mail: eruberto@sheridannurseries.com Website: www.sheridannurseries.com DEFEND YOUR TURF http://www.engageag A new weapon for your greens, tees, & fairways! Kabuto 400SC is a next generation, flowable, SDHI fungicide for control of Dollar spot. Kabuto 400SC's new and unique active ingredient provides powerful Dollar spot protection and defense against resistance development in convenient, easy to use packaging. 866.613.3336 www.engageagro.com Always read and follow label directions KABUTO™ is a trademark of Ishihara Sangyo Kaisha Ltd. LOOKING BACK Twenty Years Ago Today he Board of Directors of the OGSA in 1995 was: John Taylor Rob Witherspoon was appointed as the new director of the T (President), Twenty Valley G&CC, Alex La Belle (Vice President and Newsletter Editor), Merryhill GC, Bruce Burger Guelph Turfgrass Institute. EVENTS: A retirement reception for Dr. Jack Eggens was held on (Past President), Lakeview GC, Simon George (Treasurer), January 4th in conjunction with the Ontario Turfgrass Symposium. Oakville GC, Ian Bowen, Oshawa G&GC, Bob Heron, Beacon It was organized and directed by Gordon Witteveen, and the Hall GC, Paul Dodson, Lionhead G&GC, Doug Suter, Credit presenters were former students and friends: Nigel Rennie, Rob Valley G&CC, Paul White, Mississaugua G&CC, Ken Nelson, Ackermann, Dean Baker, Keith Bartlett, Ian Bowen, Angelo Jerry Richard, Craigowan and Keith Bartlett, Thornhill G&CC. Capanelli, Paul Dermott, Bill Fach, Ron Heesen, Jerry Richard, Cindi Charters was the office secretary. Paul Scenna, Pelino Scenna, Mike VanBeek, Paul White, Mark ON THE MOVE: Thom Charters moved to Bayview G&CC Schneider, Marie Thorne, Hugh Kirkpatrick and Daisy Moore. from Weston G&CC and Jeff Burgess took over his position. Jim Ransomes America Corporation and G.C. Duke Equipment Limited Molenhuis left Lionhead G&CC to work at a new golf course, Lake announced the new revolutionary all electric riding greens mower Joseph GC, which was being built by ClubLink. Paul Dodson which operates on eight, six volt golf cart style batteries which offer from Aurora Highlands GC went to Lionhead G&CC and Peter quiet pollution free operation. White from Credit Valley G&CC (Assistant) went to Aurora. Blake A law was passed in Ontario that signs must be posted 24 hours prior McMaster moved from Brampton GC to Royal Montreal GC. Jay to pesticide applications on golf courses and remain in place for 48 Lavis left Cardinal GC and went to Blue Mountain G&CC and hours after an application. was replaced by Robert Sloan from Sudbury. Gary Morris left North Bay GC and went to John Evelyn Golf Centre and North Bay TOURNAMENTS: The Pro/Superintendent day was held at G&CC hired Kevin Wingerton, who was the Assistant at Thornhill Monterra GC hosted by Ron Heesen. The winning gross team Dan G&CC. Mark Courneya, Assistant at Markland Wood GC, moved Lavis and Pro John Davis from Ingersoll GC and the low net prize to the Loyalist Estate GC near Kingston, John Scott became the new went to Ed Farnsworth from Deerhurst and Pro Paul Kennedy. Superintendent at Rivermead GC and Mike Cote moved from Port The Superintendent/Greens Chairman event was held at the Carling G&GC to Glendale G&CC. Chris Andrejicka, Assistant Rosedale GC hosted by Bill Fach. The winners were as follows: at Devils Pulpit GA, became the new Superintendent at Essex 1st low gross, Brampton GC, 2nd low gross, Bay of Quinte G&CC G&CC and Bernie Martin from Osprey moved to Hunters Glen and 3rd low gross, Galt G&CC. GC. The Beverley G&CC hired Scott Dyker, John Parker moved The OGSA, GTI, OMAFRA Field Day was held at Springfield GC from Greystone GC to Trafalgar G&CC, Andrew Keffer, Assistant hosted by Ray Dlugokecki. Low gross scores were Thom Charters at Emerald Hills GC, took over at Greystone GC and Derick Powers (70), Jeff Staufer (72), Paul Scenna (72) and Ted Ellis (73). moved from Brockville CC to Carleton G&YC. The OTRF GolfTournament was held at Spring Lakes GC hosted by Max Frost. Jay Evelyn was the low gross winner with a 71. ■ ACHIEVEMENTS: Paul Dermott and Dave Gourlay Jr. were both nominated as directors of GCSAA by the OGSA. Paul Dermott, Paul Scenna and Greg Williams won the Barry Endicott Environmental Steward Award from the GCSAA in San Francisco. Retired Golf Course Superintendent Dr. Jack Eggens was the recipient of the John B. Steel Distinguished Brampton, Ontario Service Award at the Canadian International Turfgrass Conference Tel: 905-846-1440 and Tradeshow held in Ottawa. Email: barry.endicott@gmail.com LARGE TREE SALESAND 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 70S.888.2689 TURF OR CONSEQUENCES Death From Above by Doug Breen, Superintendent and we agreed to settle on our GolfNorth Properties admiration for Tawny Kataen - our only common ground. y son Walker has been working on I once worked on a course, M the grounds crew at a golf course for a few seasons now. Last night, we were where someone on the Board was an employee of the driving someplace, and he mentioned in Ministry of Labour. He passing that he’d never been hit by a golf was quite concerned that we ball. I got hit a handful of times during my should all be wearing hard first summer, and about the same number of hats while on the golf course. times in the three decades since. My first I made a presentation, thought, which I immediately stated (we where I explained that don’t have a lot of unexpressed ideas at our we were certainly in no house), was that the kid is obviously lazier danger, as long as we than I was. I would be working so hard, paintball.” I said that he was correct, if the stood in the middle of the fairways and greens, and concentrating so intently on what I was paint ball was made out of NASA plastic as most shots go flying into the deep rough, doing, that I’d often forget to keep an eye on wrapped around a ball bearing, and shot where everyone seemed to want us to stand. the tee - and whammo. He interpreted the out of a cannon. I’ve been hit by both, and I continued; since they were so worried about facts in another way, and concluded that he it’s about as similar to getting shot with a our safety, what we really needed were shin was just smarter than me. paintball, as having someone chuck an egg pads to protect us from their hosel rockets. Furthermore, he theorized that getting and a hammer at you. Everyone had a good laugh, and the vote was struck by a golf ball “really wouldn’t There have been countless near misses as lost. Less than 48 hours later, while filling hurt any more than getting shot with a well; steering wheel from a powered bunker in for someone who called in sick, I took one rake, tank of a sprayer (several of those). off the forehead cutting fairways. They still There was one particular day, where I was have to wear hard hats on that course, and the admonishing one of the young staff, while fairway mower has a cage on it. ATTENTION! he was doing bunker maintenance. There was nothing wrong with the work he was Some have tried to use bump caps instead of hard hats. For a while, suppliers were doing, but he had stated in no uncertain selling a plastic safari hat that looked like IPM Certified terms that he thought that “Marilyn a pith helmet. The idea, was that it would Agents Monroe, Rita Hayworth, and all those other old 5O’s pin up girls were too chubby.” afford you some protection from the sun, as well as golfballs. Unfortunately, they would Obviously, I couldn’t stand for that. It’s slide off, if you tipped your head more than really the only thing left that I can get angry five degrees off of dead level. I lost several enough, to argue with people about. As I’ve into rivers, wet wells, and one into a ravine. Get your grown older, I’ve become too weary from We have a course, where there’s one nailed recertification credits the fight - and I’m willing to sit idly by, while people say unbelievably stupid things to the shop wall, labelled in memory of the superintendent who tried to make the staff ON-LINE about pesticides, GMO foods, vaccination, there wear them. or three down football. Any of those topics So, has Walker avoided contact because with would have once brought me to me feet, to he’s more clever than I was at his age, or does rain down a well-rehearsed defence of my he just not work as hard? I’ve undertaken P.D. Solutions! position. Not anymore; I’m now perfectly an utterly unscientific poll, and it seems that willing to let people wallow in their own the more times a person has been struck; the crapulence. But if you don’t think that more likely they are to be generally rammy, Elizabeth Taylor was hot in A Place in the and a tad OCD about the project they’re Sun; well sir, we will have words! So there working on - like me. Sure there are wild Visit: I was, standing in the bunker, with my back cards (I had an assistant take a ball in the www.pdsolutions.ca to the tee, defending the honour of Jane mouth from two holes away that was 90 Mansfield, when suddenly, the young fellow degrees off course) but for the most part, or call I was lecturing, reached past me and caught it appears that getting hit is primarily a a golfball in full flight, with his bare hand - function of just not being aware of your 1-877-977-6774 three inches from my head. I thanked him, surroundings. I plead guilty, and my father didn’t shake his (probably broken) hand, would have agreed. ■ C Winter ountdown to 5 Years as the fastest growing snow mould fungicide in Canada Seasons of disease control with flexible rates 4 Spring I 65-100ml Summer | 65ml Fall I 65-100ml Winter I 100-177ml 3 proven active ingredients for superior control and the ultimate peace of mind decades of plant health innovation with 2 StressGard Formulation Technology 1 Solution...Trilogy SC University tested snow mould control with industry­ leading colour, quality, and density. IPM Sensible - up to 54% total a.i. reduction compared to competition.* Flexible rates for all budgets and conditions. Confidence and peace of mind - Backed by Bayer. Based on Trilogy @177ml/100m2 vs. Instrata @ 300ml/100m2 For more information on Triton and the complete line of Bayer products, contact Environmental Science. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTION. Trilogy, StressGard and the Bayer www.BayerES.ca Twitter: @BayerGolfCA 1-888.283.6847 cross are trademarks of Bayer. SOLUTIONS TURF EQUIPMENT & IRRIGATION REELMASTER 3550 INFINITY™ WITH LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPION SMART ACCESS™ ■ 15-20% lighter than comparably CHOOSE FROM equipped machines ■ Conversion Assemblies ■ Its five, 18-inch wide cutting units provide DT Series exceptional ground-following capabilities 800 Series for an outstanding after-cut appearance, ■ Riserless Bodies even on undulating fairways. 1" Infinity - In-stock and available 1.5" Infinity - In-stock and available For More Information: Turf Care Products Canada TURFCARE 200 Pony Drive, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 7B6 London: Mississauga: Ottawa: 519-668-7664 905-836-0988 x 5404 613-821-1880 1975 - 2015 Helping Your Business Grow For Forty Years www.turfcare.ca