COURSE NOVEMBER 2016 ON ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS' ASSOCIATION OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE The Bethpage Black Experience Volunteering at a PGA layoff Event P Canadian Cupp'sINSIDE ALSO THISConnection ISSUE: Ran Deep Do Housing Incentives Have Bite? Staff Retention — Strategies To Keep Quality Employees CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON N1L OH2 Premium Products Premium Results Now part of the BrettYoung company Our newly expanded team of turf professionals will work with you to identify and implement the very best agronomic programs. Contact your local BrettYoung Regional Account Manager and let us show you our commitment to your success. Rob Field, Ontario General Manager Chris Nelson, Toronto & Niagara Ron Milne, Eastern & Central Ontario 905-320-6449 416-500-5233 905-213-5710 rob.field@brettyoung.ca chris.nelson@brettyoung.ca ron.milne@brettyoung.ca Kelly Barnet, South Western Ontario Steve Hewgill, Northern Ontario 519-890-4061 705-896-2148 kelly.barnet@brettyoung.ca steve.hewgill@brettyoung.ca Everett Nieuwkoop, South Western Andrew Hardy, Toronto Ontario, Toronto & Niagara & Central Ontario 519-688-4397 647-241-1134 everett.nieuwkoop@brettyoung.ca andrew.hardy@brettyoung.ca PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE s this golfing season draws to a close, one is reminded of how A rewarding overcoming a challenge can be. The drought is over, leaving many to pick up the pieces and attempt to get the turf put to bed for the winter in relatively good shape. Upon speaking with many Editor superintendents, friends and colleagues, many are glad this season is Justin Parsons over with. Also many are glad that they have overcome the challenges justinparsons@engageagro.com that Mother Nature brought this year. This, of course, leads to winter and conference time. The OGSA Publisher & Advertising Manager is hosting its annual Golf Course Management Conference, January Terry Davey by Mark Prieur 17th-19th, 2017 in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The Hilton Hotel and OGSA President terry@blenheim.ca Fallsview Casino are by far the best venues we have been able to Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 provide to date. In addition, the new format of linking industry suppliers directly to superintendent members is an exciting idea that will be the framework Administration Manager of future shows. The OGSA has done an excellent job listening to its members and the new format is exciting, educational and convenient for all classes of members. Kudos to the Diane Davey organizing committee and all their efforts. diane@blenheim.ca This will be the last Presidents Message as my term will be complete at the Annual General Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 103 Meeting in January. There are many people I would like to thank for their input, support and insight in helping shape the future of your association. First, Jeff Stauffer for nominating me Production & Design for board service initially. Second, to Scott White and Chad Vibert for their friendship and Jeanette Thompson RGD support, as well as my family. Lastly, for all the people who work hard to shape the future of jeanettethompson@mac.com the industry that has been so good to all of us. It is very inspiring. Thank you. Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 If you haven’t considered board service as of yet, please give it some thought. You meet ONCourse is published four times a year many new people at all levels and sectors of the golf industry. It will improve your net worth (November / March / June / August) both to yourself and your facility. I know it did for me. ■ by Blenheim INK for: Providing engineering solutions to Ontario’s Golf industry. Engineering Design & Consulting Services Land Development & Approval Assistance Ontario Golf Superintendents' Permit & Regulatory Agency Approval Assistance Association Irrigation & Drinking Water Supply Strategies Sally Ross, Executive Manager Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Strategies Guelph Turfgrass Institute GPS Surveying & Mapping Services 328 Victoria Road South 30 Centurian Dr. Suite 100 Markham, Ontario L3R 8B8 Phone 905 475 1900 Fax 905 475 8335 Guelph, ON N1L0H2 www.scsconsultinggroup.com Tel: 519-767-3341 Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Fax:519-766-1704 Email: manager@ogsa.ca www.ogsa.ca Published by Blenheim INK Don’t miss out - book your ad today! Administration Office: To book, contact: 503-5340 Lakeshore Road Next advertising Burlington, ON L7L 7A8 ADVERTISING MANAGER: PRODUCTION MANAGER: deadline is: Terry Davey Jeanette Thompson Feb. 1,2017 terry@blenheim.ca Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 102 jeanettethompson@mac.com Tel: 877-618-8696 ext. 101 www.blenheim.ca IN THE ROUGH, IT’S NOT HOW WIDE YOU CAN MOW. IT'S HOW WELL YOU CAN MOW WIDE. With the new John Deere 9009A TerrainCut™ Rough Mower, you can now mow more rough in less time without sacrificing cut quality. The 9009A features five, 27-inch decks for a nine-foot cutting width. Each deck has a unique, deep shell design with an innovative rear discharge chute. Height-of-cut can be set instantly using no tools. And the 9009A comes with the TechControl Display, letting you make precise settings of mow, transport and turn speed, as well as, weight transfer, LoadMatch™ and cruise control. The time has come for a wide area rough mower to do more. So don't just mow wide. Mow wide better. With the new 9009A TerrainCut™ Rough Mower. Trusted by the Best JohnDeere.ca/Golf INSIDE THIS ISSUE INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ALMACK AGRONOMIC SERVICES INC. 29 AQUATROLS 31 aquatrols.com BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 7 www.braemarbuildings.com BRETTYOUNG 2 www.brettyoung.ca DCS & ASSOCIATES 27 www.dcsturf.com FAST FOREST 29 Features www.fastforest.ca GREEN HORIZONS GROUP OF FARMS 2? 9 Assistants Tournament Recap GreenhorizonsSod.com 10 Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament Recap JOHN DEERE 4 www.JohnDeere.com/Golf 11 Cupp's Canadian Connection Ran Deep ONTARIO SEED COMPANY 30 12 Brantford Golf and Country Club www.oscturf.com Paul Evenden, Superintendent, Brantford Golf and Country Club RD. SOLUTIONS 15 www.pdsolutions.ca 16 Do Housing Incentives Have Bite? SCS CONSULTING GROUP LTD. 3 3 18 Staff Retention www.scsconsultinggroup.com Strategies to Keep Quality Employees TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 20, 32 www.turfcare.ca 21 The Bethpage Black Experience Volunteering at a PGA Tour Playoff Event TURFGRASS CANADA 14 www.residex.com Regular Contributors ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 8 24 ONTurf www.zandersod.com 26 Off the Fairway 29 Looking Back ONCOURSE 2016 Although every effort is made to check 30 Turf or Consequences material for publication, the association is not responsible for material published on Departments behalf of its contributors. 3 President's Message All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole or part without 7 Editorial Message the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. 8 What's New Although some trade names may be mentioned in articles contained 28 Member Moments in this publication, no endorsement is intended or implied by the Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. ON THE COVER ONCOURSE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Zack Stevens, Steve Rabski and Ken Tilt Cory Janzen, Kevin Kobzan, Reg Langen, Justin Parsons, OGSA is committed to serving its members, standing in front of hole #17 at the Barclays. advancing their profession, and enriching Photo Courtesy: Ken Tilt Cam Shaw, Ken Tilt, Stephen Hicks the quality of golf and its environment. EDUCATION "We are all in this together" SESSIONS Dr. Mike Agnew, Ph.D. Technical manager, Syngenta Turf and Landscape An Agronomic Approach to Managing Patch Diseases 2017 ONTARIO GOLF COURSE Dr. Norm Hummel, Ph.D. Owner & President of MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE Hummel & Co. Inc. The Topdressing Dilemma: Achieving Fast & Firm Greens Fallsview Casino Resort Conference Centre & Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites Dr. Geunhwa Jung, Ph.D. Professor, University of Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture Niagara Falls, ON I JANUARY 17-19,2017 Fungicide Resistance Management Dr. Bill Kreuser, Ph.D. Keynote Speaker: Assistant Professor, Extension Wednesday, January 18th, 2017 Turfgrass Specialist University of Nebraska-Lincoln Dick Pound Plant Growth Regulators & Plant Health Founding President of the Opening Night World Anti-Doping Agency Mark Kuhns, CGCS (WADA) & The Man Behind Dinner at Brasa! Director of Grounds at Baltusrol the Olympics Golf Club Tuesday, January 17th, 2017 For more than 20 years, Dick Pound Hosting the 2016 PGA has been one of the most influential members of the International Championship Olympic Committee. He is most well-known for his work as the director of the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Steve Randall Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. GCSAA-Field Staff; Central Plains Pound built the Olympics into a multi-billion dollar enterprise regional representative and asso­ by branding and marketing the Olympic rings, and negotiating ciate director, chapter outreach shrewd deals for television rights around the world. Under Pound's Inside the Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel and leadership, the IOC has grown into one of the richest sports Suites, Brasa showcases the flavours and cultural Communicating and Leading organizations in the world. flair of Brazil. During Difficult Circumstances Jason VanBuskirk CEO & Founder of Turf Cloud, Superintendent, Stow Acres Country Club Google Drive for the Turfgrass Special Early Bird rates available until Registration Open! November 30th. Professional | Web Strategy "We Grow Golf" Go to the OGSA website for more details! www.ogsa.ca John Zimmers Superintendent, Oakmont Hilton Room Rates Niagara Falls/Fallsview $109-$139Hotel & Suites Country Club Free parking at Hilton Hotel; Wifi included Hosting the 2016 US Open EDITORIAL MESSAGE s the temperatures drop and final get most tasks accomplished. There is no easy way to hand-rake A preparations are made for winter, we a bunker or line trim a ponds edge, you just have to put your head are once again poised to evaluate anotherdown and work hard until the job is accomplished. season. Since the maintenance staff While the world that shapes today’s youth is changing rapidly, plays a major role in anything that gets one thing that hasn’t is what makes people happy. Deep down accomplished on the golf course, they are most people want to feel important and need to be appreciative always featured prominently in any yearend of what they have. If this balance can be struck when hiring, evaluations that take place. Unfortunately, training and leading young maintenance employees, success can by Justin Parsons, it is quite apparent that finding diligent and be achieved. This notion is reinforced in Kevin Kobzan’s article Engage Agro Corp. dependable young foot soldiers to carry out on staff retention that you will find in this issue of ONCourse. the maintenance plan is becoming a major In many ways, Steve Rabski’s article on volunteering at The challenge at many facilities across Ontario. Barclay’s PGA Tour Event also touches on this concept. Steve Have we (the industry) changed? Have today’s youth changed? talks about how good it feels to be a part of a team working Just why is it so difficult to find reliable and motivated young toward a common goal and how he was inspired to bring this help to assist with turf operations? Naturally, we decided to speak feeling back to his own golf club. with some superintendents who have had continued success in In this issue you will also find an article from Robert Thompson this area to find out what their secret is. I will spare you the on housing incentives for employees and how they can help attract expense and tell you right now that there is no magic formula. As staff to your property. While this luxury may not be possible at much as we all want to believe that there is, there just isn’t. all clubs, it does highlight the need for offering more than just The millennial generation has grown up in a different world a paycheck to lure good employees. After Bob Cupp’s passing than the rest of us - everything can now be found in the palm of a few months ago, Robert also writes about the legacy that the your hand instantly. This has proven somewhat problematic for noted architect left in Canada. You will find all this and more as an industry that must rely on good old fashioned hard work to you flip through the pages of our November issue. ■ 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 WHAT'S NEW by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager early as possible. It will assist us in plan­ OGCM CONFERENCE 2017 ning and actually add more value to the event. We only seek to ensure that revenue WELCOME We are deep in the throes of planning is adequate enough to sustain the asso­ to Our New Members the conference and with the support of all ciation, support our many activities and our members getting on board with our member services, while keeping dues at a Marc China Class S new format, we expect a successful event, manageable level for all members. University of Guelph with exceptional returns to be experienced Denver Hart Class S by all facets of our membership. We hope MEMBERSHIP DUES University of Guelph the conference will continue to reinforce All dues have been billed and were due the importance of life-long learning, while on October 1st as per our by-laws. We are Dustin Louth Class F sharing a common cause, and the many now at the stage where reminders are being Lake St. George Golf Club friendships experienced by our member­ sent out for unpaid dues. If you have not Alexander O'Hara Class C ship in the past will be renewed once again. already paid your dues, please go online to Wyndance Golf Club The conference will have an inclusive fla­ pay, or call the office to arrange payment. vour, while adopting the all-inclusive plan. Thank you to all those members who have Victor Ranieri Class C We hope post conference that we can say paid promptly as it helps to cut down on Don Valley Golf Course without a doubt that the days of expecting the administrative costs. Dalton Rowbotham Class S our suppliers to spend tens of thousands of If any of your personal or employment University of Guelph dollars to transport product, displays and information has changed, we do ask that Jeffrey-William Thoburn Class S equipment, just to experience a network­ you contact the office immediately or update University of Guelph ing session with their clients, are gone. We your online profile. Class changes must be aim to provide an exceptional educational done by the office. Questions or concerns? Leemco, Inc. Class E and networking experience for everyone. Please call us. We are here to help and we Sponsorship is a large part of our rev­ thank you for your ongoing support. enue stream for the event and we thank Annual Reports and financial state­ those companies who have already jumped OGSA ANNUAL ments will be provided at the meeting. If on board. We hope that others will follow GENERAL MEETING you are unable to attend, all reports will be suit to help make this event as successful The OGSA Annual General Meeting is available post conference, online. as possible. Please contact Sally Ross in scheduled for 7:15 AM on Thursday, Jan­ Official notice of meeting and any the office for sponsorship opportunities. If uary 19th, 2017 in Maple A & B at the accompanying information will be posted you have not yet registered, please do so as Fallsview Casino Hotel, Conference level. on our website and linked in Clippings as per our by-laws. There will be a by-law change to comply with our GCSAA affiliation agreement; DELIVERING SUPERIOR SOD AND QUALITYSERVICE Class Supt will now become Class B. • #1 Kentucky Bluegrass • NEW Bella Bluegrass! GCSAA CHAPTER • Extreme Fescue DELEGATES MEETING • Premium Bentgrass OGSA Director Jason Boyce represent­ • Custom grown ed the OGSA at the GCSAA Chapter sod available Delegates meeting held in Lawrence, Kan­ • Large or small rolls sas this past October and will be carrying • Low mow the vote for all OGSA members who have assigned their vote to the Chapter at the upcoming GCSAA AGM. If anyone Living. Breathing.. wishes to express their opinion or has any concerns regarding the candidates that the REALGRASS IS OGSA will support for election to the BETTER! GCSAA Board, or any other agenda items HEALTHIER! that will be voted upon at the GCSAA AGM, please contact Jason or the OGSA office prior to December 31st, 2016. Fur­ Phone:877-727-2100 www.zandersod.com ther details will be posted on our website when they become available. ■ Assistants Tournament Recap by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager his past August 23rd, 92 golfers T participated in the OGSA’s 14th Annual Assistants Tournament at Brantford Golf and Country Club. The weather was exceptional and so too were the course conditions, which Superintendent Paul Evenden said were directly attributable to the hard work of Assistant Superintendent Ryan Marangoni and his crew. An excellent turnout and tremendous support from our sponsors helped make this a memorable day for all assistants who attended. The first place team was Jeremy Hubbard from Pike Lake Golf Centre Ltd., Darren Fritz and John Mellor from Piper’s Glen Golf Club, and Paul Lenartowich from Skyway Lawn Equipment Ltd., with a score of 59. Second place went to the team of Kyle Attwood and Matt Cockburn from Glen Abbey Golf Club, Jeff Mottershead from Willow Valley Golf Course and James Raynor from Vanden Bussche Irrigation with a 61 by retrogression. Also with a 61, the third place team was Michael Ainsworth from Rosedale Golf Club, Colin White from Bayer, Robert Lewis from Deer Creek Golf and Gerry Fox from Dalewood Golf Club. There were some big winners of the day; Lesley Thomas from Scarboro Golf 8c Country Club won a Toro 20" Recycler Mower in a special draw, and Matt Booth from Oshawa Golf & Curling Club was the recipient of a Husqvarna gas powered trimmer for winning the putting contest. Clockwise: 1st Place Team - John Mellor, Jeremy Hubbard, Paul Lenartowich, and Darren Fritz; Both prizes and the management of the Host Superintendent, Paul Evenden (left) receives a plaquefor hosting the event; Host Assistant putting contest were courtesy of Turf Care Superintendent Ryan Marangoni (left) receives a plaquefrom Stephen Hicks ofDundas Valey G&CG Products. An additional prize of a barbeque was awarded to Virginia Kinney from Mad Zander Sod Co. Ltd. The OGSA would like Master of Ceremonies was Stephen River Golf Club, courtesy of BrettYoung/ to thank these companies for their support. Hicks from Dundas Valley Golf 8c Curling Plant Science. The OGSA would also like to thank our Club, who presented the prizes and the host Other on course prizes, all a value of $250 Platinum Sponsor; Turf Care Products, Gold awards to both Ryan Marangoni and Paul or more, were awarded to the following Sponsors; Bayer and BrettYoung/Plant Evenden. participants: Closest to the pins, Pat Sinclair Science, and Silver Sponsors; G.C. Duke Special thanks go to Stephen Hicks from from Copper Creek Golf Club and Darren Equipment Ltd., Engage Agro Corp., Plant Dundas Valley Golf 8c Country Club and Fritz from Pipers Glen Golf Club. Longest Products, Allturf and Quali-Pro. This support Ken Tilt from Trafalgar Golf 8c Country Drives went to Rob Lewis from Deer Creek provided all attendees with a great gift from the Club who worked on the tournament Golf & Country Club and Dennis Kim prize table. Additional prizes donated for the organization and acquisition of sponsorships from Scarboro Golf & Country Club. These draw were from RJ. Burnside, Nutrite, Bayer, and all the staff at Brantford Golf 8c Country prizes were courtesy of Ontario Seed Co., Ontario Seed Co., G.C. Duke Equipment Club who worked tirelessly to ensure Vanden Bussche Irrigation, Syngenta and Ltd., Plant Products and BrettYoung. everyone had a great experience. ■ ALEX McCLUMPHA MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT RECAP by Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager he OGSA’s 70th Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament T was held at Whitevale Golf Club on Tuesday, October 11th. 83 golfers enjoyed the excellent late season golf conditions and post­ Andrew Lombardo of Wyndance GC John Alpaugh (left) ofAllturfLtd, wins Low Gross - Flight A wins Low Gross - Flight B Thanksgiving camaraderie at Whitevale. OGSA Director Andrew Lombardo acted as the Emcee for the tournament and prior to dinner introduced David Kuypers from Syngenta, who had brought a special foursome out to enjoy the day. The legends of the industry, as the foursome was named, included Paul Dermott, OGSA Past President and Distinguished Service Award winner, Gregg Allan, recently retired from Syngenta and a strong supporter of superintendents, the association and the golf industry, Thom Charters, OGSA Past President and active long time member and Clay Switzer. Clay, along with Paul and Thom, pioneered the creation of the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Clay was called upon to say a few words to the attendees. Some of Clay’s achievements include; Scott White (left) of Ontario Seed Kyle Young (left) of Whitevale GC, Chair of the Botany Department at University of Guelph, Associate Co., wins Low Net - Flight B wins Low Net - Flight A Dean and Dean of the OAC, President of the Agricultural Institute of Canada, and lastly, Deputy Minister of Agriculture for Ontario. He has also served as President of the University of Guelph Alumni Association. He is OGSAs inaugural Distinguished Service Award winner and an honorary member of the OGSA. Following dinner, Andrew Lombardo presented the host superintendent, Blair Rennie with a plaque, in acknowledgement of his contributions to the success of the event. Blair in turn praised his assistant, Kyle Young for his dedication. Andrew also thanked the companies that supported the event with sponsorship and specialty prizes; Allturf Ltd., Vanden Bussche Irrigation, and Turf Care Products for providing the traditional snow blower to the winner of the George Darou trophy. Companies and courses who provided Robert Ackermann (left), Superintendent Blair Rennie prizes were also recognized; Royal Woodbine GC, Engage Agro Superintendent at Weston G&CC, (right) receives a plaquefrom OGSA Corp., Weston G&CC, Plant Products Inc., and BrettYoung. recieves the George Darou Trophy director Andrew Lombardofor The first time winner of the George Darou trophy was Rob from Bill Martel ofTurf Care hosting the event Ackermann ofWeston Golf and Country Club. The presentation was Products made by Bill Martel ofTurf Care Products. First place for low gross of Flight A was Andrew Lombardo (Wyndance GC), second place was Stephen Hicks (Dundas Valley G&CC), and Matt Booth (Oshawa G&CC) came in third. First, second and third low net for Flight A went to Kyle Young (Whitevale GC), Jordan Barber (Beacon Hall GC), and Jim Flett (Muskoka Lakes G&CC) respectively. Low gross winner for Flight B was John Alpaugh (Allturf Ltd.), second low gross went to Kevin Holmes (MBTW Golf Design), and third low gross went to Paul Lenartowich (Skyway Lawn Equipment Ltd.). Scott White (Ontario Seed Co.) won the first low net for Flight B, with second and third places awarded to Corrie Almack (Almack Agronomic Services Inc.), and David Kuypers (Syngenta). Longest drive and closest to the pin for Flight A went to Matt Davidson (Devils Pulpit GA) and Kyle Young (Whitevale GC). Flight B’s longest drive and closest to the pin went to Tim Fleury (Conestoga G&CC) and Mike Kehoe (Nutrite). There were four skins awarded, ONCourse contributors, L-R: Kevin Kobzan (Donalda Club), Reg Langen sharing almost $600. Mr. Lombardo thanked the attentive staff for (Richmond Hill G&CC), Cam Shaw (Pipers Heath GC), and Stephen their hard work and dedication for what was an exceptional day. ■ Hicks (Dundas Valley G&CC) Above: Beacon Hall Golf Club, Hole #15; Right: Bob Cupp (left) with Paul Scenna, Director of Golf Course Operations at Beacon Hall. Cupp's Canadian Connection Ran Deep By Robert Thompson Cupp’s design career slowed in recent years largely because he had so many other interests. ob Cupp was one of the most successful and celebrated golf “I have too many hobbies,” Cupp said. “I like to paint and sculpt. B designers of the last three decades, as well as a renaissance man who drew, played guitar, painted, and sang. I’m a musician and singer. I just have too many distractions.” And instead of taking on more design work, Cupp wrote a novel, Cupp, who died in August at the age of 76, made his mark in Canada, The Edict. A work of historical fiction, the book speculates that and specifically Ontario, with designs like Beacon Hall in Aurora, the ban on golf in 1457 by King James came about not because of Mad River near Collingwood, and Deerhurst in the Muskokas. the need to sway people from the links and train them as archers, His break in Canada came at Beacon Hall in 1988, followed but because one of the parliamentarians behind the law had huge by Deerhurst two years later, and Mad River (which he’d later outstanding golf bets. extensively renovate) soon after. British Columbia’s Big Sky, with “The idea of my book is that the story of golf goes so far back its majestic mountain vistas, followed, and then nothing more. A that we’re not certain about a lot of the early years,” he said. “But plan to work in a collaboration with Doug Carrick on the site that there’s just enough to tickle your fancy. That’s what fascinates me.” became Coppinwood, near Uxbridge, Ont., fell through and Cupp At Highlands and Beacon Hall, Cupp used Canadian architect never built another course in Canada. Thomas McBroom as his site supervisor. Cupp was hired for the “At the time when I broke in, Graham Cooke, Doug Carrick project because his fees were lower than some of the big names— and Tom McBroom were just getting started,” Cupp said in an like Jack Nicklaus—says Farnsworth. But Cupp proved his value interview in 2008. “There was a vacuum. I got work and it is the on early walks around the Muskoka property as he identified key same reason Mike Hurdzan got Devil’s Pulpit.” natural areas—like the rocky outcropping on the 10th hole—that The Ontario superintendents who worked with Cupp remember he wished to incorporate into his design. him fondly as a man with a big vision for golf that matched his “We hired him because he’d worked for Nicklaus and because of larger-than-life personality. how good Beacon Hall had turned out,” Farnsworth says. “He was a big strapping guy who loved hockey,” says Ed Paul Scenna, the current superintendent at Beacon Hall, first Farnsworth, who worked with Cupp in the creation of Deerhurst. met Cupp on one of the architects many visits to the club. Cupp “His whole persona was big. He was terrific to work with.” credited Beacon Hall as helping launch his career after he stopped Cupp’s personality—and his understanding of the challenges facing working with Nicklaus. golf superintendents—is something people who knew him talk about. “He said he would never choose favourites, but he always called “He was a great supporter of the superintendent,” says Bob Beacon Hall his first born,” says Scenna. “It was really his first Heron, who worked as superintendent at Beacon Hall soon after it project and he was really proud of it.” opened. “He recognized the importance of our job. That’s not the But it was Cupp’s unique personality that caught Scenna’s attention. case with every golf architect, that’s for sure.” On one visit to Beacon Hall, Cupp stayed with Scenna and his family, Heron adds Cupp enjoyed the notion of having brown creep into fixing a guitar in the house and playing after dinner was complete. a golf course, noting the back nine of Beacon Hall, with its links— “Most importantly he was a great guy and a super’s friend,” says like features, plays well when it is firm and fast. Scenna. “He would listen to your suggestions and while he had “I think he was a frontrunner when it comes to brown is better,” opinions, he didn’t push them. He was a guy you wanted to be says Heron. around.” ■ GC HIGHLIGHT MEMBER PROFILE Brantford Golf & Country Club 60 Ava Road Brantford, Ontario Member Since 1991 N3T 5R7 Tel: 519-752-3731 grounds@execulink.com PaulEvenden Superintendent, Brantford Golf & Country Club brantfordgolfandcountryclub.com by Ryan Marangoni, Assistant Superintendent, Brantford Golf& Country Club uckle your seat belt and strap yourself About the Course B into the DeLorean because we are heading back to the 80s on a dark and stormy night many moons ago. Tucked Established in 1879, Brantford is the away in a genetics lab at the University of fourth oldest golf club in North America Guelph, a student was peering out a window Architect: Nichol Thompson / Stanley Thompson in deep thought as rain trickled down the glass. A bolt of lightning in the sky and Type of Club: Private a deep sigh from a young Paul Evenden Number of Holes: 18 signaled that something was not sitting quite right. “I just could not see myself Number of Rounds Annually: 30,000 working in a lab the rest of my life.” Practice Facility: While studying at Guelph, Evenden Chipping range, two putting greens and a worked for his father in a hobby shop 200 yard mid iron range sweeping floors and selling model airplanes to customers part-time. As fate would have it, one of Mr. Evendens’ frequent patrons Evenden switched programs out of genetics was the General Manager of Hamilton into the Turf Management program at the Golf and Country Club, John Mickle. He University of Guelph where he graduated saw the fire in young Paul’s eyes and offered in 1991. When asked why, Evenden simply him a summer job on the grounds crew says, “I liked working outside too much.” while in school. It was not long after that Evenden worked as a student greenskeeper In the Hot Seat Q: Favourite golf tournament? Q: Favourite golf course? Q: Favourite Movie: A: The Masters A: Hamilton G&CC, West & South A: Back to the Future Q: Favourite piece of turf equipment? Q: Ultimate foursome? Q: Lowest round and where? A: Toro ProCore 648 A: Former superintendents at A: 90 at Brantford G8cCC Brantford G&CC, Rick Piccolo, Vince Piccolo & Morley Finley from 1987 to 1989 at Hamilton Golf and the waters in a career change, leaving the golf Like many superintendents, Evenden has Country Club. In 1989, he was the first industry completely. Evenden remembers a very meticulous nature which translates recipient of the Warren Harding Award, telling himself, “the only way I would get well to his hobbies away from the golf course. a coveted honour given to an employee by back into turfgrass is if an opportunity comes He is both a self-taught woodworker and the membership to aid with the financial up at Brantford Golf and Country Club.” As beekeeper. demands of post-secondary education. In luck would have it, that prospect came to light 1990, he took his talents down the 403 to and later in the year Evenden became the Glen Abbey Golf Club, where his strong fifth superintendent at Brantford Golf and work ethic contributed to the success of the Country Club, a rank he continues to hold. Canadian Open. Although Evenden only Throughout his sixteen years at the helm, had one season to gain experience from Brantford Golf and Country Club has superintendent Dean Baker, it was a vital transformed into what it is today. In 2001, relationship nonetheless. “He taught me to the clubhouse was rebuilt, and the ryegrass maintain sanity in this industry. In order to fairways were burned off and re-seeded do so, you need a good work-life balance. to bentgrass. The bunkers also received a This job will eat you up pretty quick if you complete renovation in 2004 to 2005. In don’t have the balance.” 2009, a brand new maintenance facility was Upon graduation, Evenden went back built, and from 2012 to 2015 new forward to Hamilton and became Rhod Trainors tee decks on select holes were installed to Assistant Golf Course Superintendent from support golf’s changing demographic. You 1991 to 1998. He cherished every year he can certainly see aspects of his prior mentors was there, having a front row seat watching in Paul’s day to day operations at Brantford. a very confident superintendent in Trainor, Each day he continues to set the bar higher who set the bar higher for him and the golf for himself and the crew. course, always striving to do better. In 1999, Most recently he upgraded from the amongst Y2K anticipation, Evenden landed traditional chalk job board to a more the assistant superintendent position at modern turf management software program. Dundas Valley Golf and Curling Club, a title Evenden is also frequently testing out new he held until 2001, at which point he tested apps and tech gadgets that relate to turf and resource management. But what makes One ofEvendens Windsor Evenden such a well-rounded professional is chairs, crafted with traditional wood his demeanor with people. The trust he puts carving techniques - withoutpower tools! What You Need to Know in his staff and the freedom he gives them Predominant Grass Type: Poa/Bentgrass to succeed and grow make him a true leader. Continued on page 15... Predominant Soil Type: Sandy loam Type of Greens: Pushup Course Length: 6,600 yards "Paul is a true professional and approaches his work with great Size of Property: 117 acres interest, intensity and focus. Whether it is managing the golf Size of Greens: 2.5 acres course, beehives or woodworking he displays great passion Size of Tees: 2.5 acres for every activity in which he is involved. His positive attitude, engaging personality and open mind has taken the golf course to Size of Fairways: 22.5 acres another level. I have known Paul since working on a grounds crew together twenty-six years ago and it is always a pleasure meeting to discuss business and catching up on the past and present as Major Challenges friends. I consider him to be one of the best in the business." The changing work force. Difficulty finding new committed employees. — Mike Kehoe, Technical Sales, Nutrite Brands you know from people you trust Kevin Jensen Craig McCutcheon Stu Bradshaw Joey Losito South West/N. Ontario Toronto West/Niagara Ottawa Valley Quebec South & East kjensen@residex.com cmccutcheon@residex.com sbradshaw@residex.com jlosito@residex.com 519-280-7745 905-351-6544 613-314-9711 819-571-1677 Chris Lecour Perry Brazeau Jason MacRae Mark Scenna Georgian Bay Toronto/East Quebec North & West Sales Manager clecour@residex.com pbrazeau@residex.com jmacrae@residex.com mscenna@residex.com 705-444-9010 416-705-8006 514-712-8006 416-458-2396 Continued from page 13... His father introduced him to beekeeping says Evenden. All of the Windsor chairs fourth oldest golf club in North America. at a very young age and he managed to pick Paul has made have been constructed from When you consider his interesting family it back up in 2013. Paul helped pioneer start to finish entirely by hand. Crafted with heritage, and the many success Paul has had Brantford Golf and Country Club to be one traditional techniques; no nails, no screws in his career already, it would be hard to turn of the first courses in Canada to support and definitely no power tools. In 2008, Paul down a ride from Doc Brown to see what Operation Pollinator. Each year the wild completed his first Windsor chair course in tremendous accomplishments the future has flower areas expand to new parts of the New Hampshire. In 2015, seven years and in store for Paul Evenden. ■ golf course with the help of Paul’s three seven different types of Windsor chairs later, beehives. “Bees are great for the golf course. Paul became a Knight of Windsor chair I get honey and they enhance the flowering making. “It is solitary. I am not thinking plants throughout the course,” claims Evenden. The hives produce anywhere about the course or members or staff. It is just me in the workshop with the dog, ATTENTION! from 150 to 300 pounds of honey annually. building a chair with my hands. Which The honey gets sold to members and it is [working with your hands] is something you IPM Certified especially satisfying to them to know it is do less of when you are a Super.” honey created from their golf course. On the personal side of things, Paul has Agents Paul’s second self-proclaimed hobby is been married for 23 years to his wife Susan. woodworking. Specifically, the construction Paul and Susan have two daughters, Emma of Windsor chairs. “Woodworking and turf and Jessica, and the family also has a two- Get your management are similar in the sense they year-old golden retriever named Myrtle. both require extreme attention to detail,” “Myrtle is a celebrity on the course. She recertification credits chases geese once in a while,” Evenden exclaims with a wink. Paul and Susan are ON-LINE with big New England Patriots fans. “Well, my wife more so, I am just along for the ride. If P.D. Solutions you don’t put the jersey on, they won’t win!” The couple manages to get away a few times every year. Whether it is up to the cottage ★ Now offering ★ in Burk’s Falls or down to New Hampshire, the Evenden’s seem to have the work-life MORE Courses! balance figured out. Emma started her first semester at the University of Guelph this fall, becoming the fourth generation Visit: of Evenden’s to attend that institution. One of her study buildings is MacDonald www.pdsolutions.ca Hall, which is the same building her great grandmother studied in years ago. Paul is or call a very proud father and husband and he is Evendens hives produce anywherefrom 150-300 proud of the product he produces daily at the 1-877-977-6774 pounds ofhoney annually. Do Housing Incentives Have Bite? By Robert Thompson with Stephen Hicks Matt Eastman faced a number of challenges. A new job at a new private club, one in a new city following a move from Vancouver. But one of his biggest struggles was determining where to live. Toronto, as most recognize, isn’t looking to options like providing housing inexpensive and finding decent rental in an effort to entice new employees. housing is difficult, especially as one is Mississaugua is far from alone. While many getting themselves established. clubs offer housing for their superintendents, Eastman came to Mississaugua Golf and it is becoming more common for clubs Country Club when former superintendent to follow Mississaugua’s lead. Clubs like Adam Zubek joined in 2011. When the Beacon Hall, Osprey Valley, and others have club offered accommodations in its classic offered housing, claiming it is helpful in clubhouse, Eastman took them up on the attracting and retaining new employees. option. He had interned at Capilano, and Beacon Hall in Aurora has housed joined the venerable private club outside of many staffers who later moved to become Toronto as an assistant superintendent in superintendents. Lebovic’s super, Colin training. Needless to say, it wasn’t a position Young, former Coppinwood super Sean that offered huge compensation, but the DeSilva, and Essex’s past superintendent opportunity to learn under Zubek was Greg Brown, all spent time in the club’s beneficial. housing, nicknamed “The Treehouse.” “It was sort of like having a dorm room Paul Scenna, the club’s superintendent, in university,” says Eastman, of living in says the housing is a big benefit given the the clubhouse. “I really enjoyed it. And costs of living in the area surrounding the yes there are some challenges living in the club. Housing has been offered since the clubhouse, but it worked out.” club opened in 1988. As finding qualified maintenance staff “It’s a great asset to attract both assistants, becomes increasingly difficult, clubs are spray techs and interns who otherwise could not afford the affluent area of Aurora while recently having completed school or are in school,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to pay back some bills, and maybe save some money while living in a fun environment close to work.” The house at Beacon has five bedrooms, a kitchen and a large common area, and Scenna says it is definitely a key to drawing interns to the club, which charges $350 per month in rent for the space. That doesn’t the apartment for five years, including a stint without a home. Gall had previously lived come close to covering the operating after he got married where the couple shared in a club home when working at Oshawa expenses of the house, he points out, adding the space. Golf and Country Club. it sometimes houses assistant golf pros as “There are downfalls to it, but honestly it That said, Gall never found the notion of well as greens staff. Assistant Super Jordan was a huge benefit,” he says. living on site to be intrusive. Barber and spray tech Mark Patterson lived Those living on site can be asked to do “I never had a GM or greens chair show in the house this year, and were joined more than other employees, Langen says, up on my door on a Sunday,” he says. by Zach Tomlinson, an intern from the and privacy can occasionally be an issue. In fact, there were benefits—no commute, University of Guelph’s turf program. “I helped clear snow in the winter, and you could turn on the sprinklers on a warm As for the question of what goes on in the I’d get up really early to do that,” he says. July day if the poa was wilting, and “you house, Scenna says there’s no question good “That’s pretty typical. As long as you feel could deal with a lightning strike on the times occur every so often. it is mutually beneficial, especially in the course while watching a football game.” “If only the walls could talk I am sure winter when you need some downtime, I However, it wasn’t all positive. there are some great stories,” he says. “The think it works. It gave me a chance to save “You’re not invested in real estate and that guys could tell you better, it does become a money—and frankly I should have saved can be tough when you enter that market,” party house at times.” more.” he says. Eastman admits there can be some Aaron Hill, the Assistant Superintendent The situation with superintendents is challenges to living in a clubhouse. Unlike at Osprey Valley, the sprawling public golf different than other maintenance staff. clubs that offer housing removed from their facility north of Toronto, lives in housing With housing, especially in urban centers, operations, Mississaugua’s is part of a vibrant provided by the club. But unlike other clubs, becoming prohibitively expensive when club. That meant dressing appropriately Osprey Valley’s housing is only available to it comes to students and new employees, when leaving the clubhouse, and not readily club managers. While some see staff housing Scenna says there’s a definite need for being able to get outside of the club’s gravity. as opportunities for team building, Hill says housing. It helps attract and retain the best Though there were concerns he’d be the first it could be problematic to have management possible new employees, as well as those one called in the event of any problem at the and staff living in the same space. from outside the immediate geographic course as he was the closest, that didn’t turn “The house is not open to staff,” he says. region. out to be the case, he says. “Being in management and mixing staff in “For sure gives more opportunity to However, on a personal level, Eastman the living quarters can be a bad idea. So the attract quality people outside of our area,” he had to plan his social life around his ability house has strictly been offered to myself.” says. “If it’s possible to include and offer it’s to get in and out of the clubhouse. However, there are advantages for the a very valuable asset to have. People make “You don’t have the privacy you might club, Hill says, as his proximity allows him the difference in any operation.” otherwise expect,” he says. “And doing to access the club in off-hours if need be. For Eastman, the program at Mississaugua anything socially can be a bit of an issue.” “I believe more courses should look into has proven invaluable, not just for him, but And don’t think of inviting someone this option,” he says. “You may attract more for the club moving forward. back to your living space in the clubhouse, interested workers with a passion for the “I would say it has been easier to bring on he adds. job.” interns and other staffers,” he explains. “It is “That would be a little awkward,” he says. Often time’s superintendents have houses something we highlight when we’re seeking Reg Langen, an assistant at Richmond as part of their compensation from the club. new employees and interns. There’s no Hill Golf Club, says the public course has But that can be an issue if the super and the question it works.” ■ two places where staff can live. One is a farm club part ways. house where the super lives, while Langen John Gall, the Superintendent at Cherry lived in an apartment that was part of the Hill Golf Club near Fort Erie, knows this clubhouse. Living in the apartment was a all too well. When Gall parted ways with Robert Thompson is a veteran golfwriter and taxable benefit, says Langen, and factored St. George’s in Toronto a decade ago not regular contributor to numerous magazines. into his overall compensation. He lived in only did he find himself without a job, but Stephen Hicks is the Assistant Superintendent at Dundas Valley. Staff Retention Strategies To Keep Quality Employees By Kevin Kobzan, Donalda Club ny turf manager realizes the integral role staff? After speaking with some Ontario says Taylor. “I’ve evolved with what we do A that staff play in the monumental task superintendents, the answer is probably no. of maintaining a golf course property. One However, they do offer some tactics that today. We are not losing people and I believe it is a great system, something I honestly of the biggest challenges superintendents may just help you in your pursuit to find and wish I had done many years ago.” now face is finding and retaining quality motivate your next crop of employees. However, top priority still revolves around individuals that are required to carry out the After 35 years as a superintendent, it’s the golf course and those who play it, which maintenance plan. In fact, some may argue fair to say that John Taylor has observed a is something Taylor emphasizes with his that this has become just as difficult a task as lot throughout the span of his managerial staff. But just like any other operation, the maintenance itself. career. During his tenure, Taylor, who is everyone involved needs to work together to Many factors come into play when currently the Superintendent at Grand make it succeed. “We are trying to present attempting to understand why it has become Niagara Golf Club, has incorporated several a very high end product and we can’t let that so difficult to attract and keep valued non-traditional strategies in an attempt to drop,” says Taylor. “If the way we staff things employees. For example, a lack of full keep his crew stimulated. He has witnessed doesn’t work we will have to modify it, but time employment, wages, early mornings first-hand when skilled workers seek other this year has gone extremely smooth. I’ve and the amount of time spent at work can avenues for employment. “I have been in had great luck with this group here.” all be potential turnoffs for todays youth. this business long enough and in my opinion This makes having everyone focused and Furthermore, the type of labour required we have lost too many great people,” says knowing their roles extremely important. For in the golf course maintenance setting is Taylor. Taylor, training is the key to the operations’ very old-fashioned in that it requires a Over the last few years, Taylor has altered success. Even though he considers himself great deal of elbow grease’ - something the the way he structures departmental shifts a progressive type’ manager, having versatile millennial generation who have grown up in and has incorporated more of a nine-to-five staff is the objective. “For the most part you an automated world are not as accustomed work environment. Now, full-timers work start at the bottom of the totem pole and to. With both time and money involved in 40 hours per week, while receiving two days work your way up,” says Taylor. “I certainly training staff on equipment, etiquette and off a week. The trade-off is having eight- want to have people trained on everything.” expectations, individuals who are reliable hour day shifts on the weekends, with part- Although training is essential, putting and versatile have become highly sought timers filling in to assist with the staffing. trust in your staff and showing them respect after assets. “We try to make our atmosphere like the are also key components for building a So is there a magic formula that can assist rest of the world and we find it helps with strong, motivated team. His approach to managers to bring in and retain dependable our staff retention and keeping them happy,” management is more hands off, and he gives "I've never had staff retention like this in all my years, and trust me I've tried everything, and I attribute it to the schedule we have. It has proven to be effective and it helps keep great people around.” John Taylor, Superintendent Grand Niagara Golf Club "We like to expedite the process of developing staff once they gain our respect through hard work and dedication. Everybody has the chance to learn because people can become stagnant." Al Schwemler, Superintendent The Toronto Golf Club a little leeway when required. “I don’t like Schwemler also offers his services to dog to stand over someone’s shoulder and I don’t sit for staff if needed and vice versa. He like to lecture people, and in the end I think pays them 30 dollars a day and provides all they appreciate it.” the food they can eat for their assistance, Taylor so far has experienced success since something he believes goes a long way with he has started using this approach, and is staff relations. content and satisfied with the outcome. Since everybody is different, getting to With the extended hours on the weekend, know the individuals who work with you staff are always present, which in the event of can create a sense of appreciation. For bunker washouts, becomes useful. Moreover, Grant Murphy, Associate Superintendent lost time has been virtually erased, which at the National Golf Club of Canada, is also beneficial. “It is human nature for understanding those around you is a step in people to lose interest in what they’re doing, establishing a trust in both communication but people here were refreshed especially and work production. Murphy has after a long hot summer,” says Taylor. developed and learned through his mistakes In the end Taylor knows what works for The staffat The Toronto Golf Club participate in as a younger manager and has acquired him may not work for others, but it has a team-building horseshoe tournament. new knowledge throughout each of his 29 proven to be effective with his personality seasons. and operation. “You need the right people “I don’t know if it gets easier, but it’s he’s discovered have led to success along the and right property,” says Taylor. “I’ve never important to know your staff, because if way. The process at The Toronto Golf Club had staff retention like this in all my years, you don’t know them or treat them as an involves diversifying the tasks for everyone and trust me I’ve tried everything, and I individual you may fail with that person,” through extensive training. “We like to attribute it to the schedule we have. It has says Murphy. “My goal may not be to build expedite the process of developing staff once proven to be effective and it helps keep great a team, but to build individual relationships.” they gain our respect through hard work and people around.” Murphy believes that if we are intentional dedication,” says Schwemler. “Everybody Building a culture and creating an about fostering relationships and allowing has the chance to learn because people can environment for growth within an them to grow that the team will develop become stagnant.” organization can also contribute to long-term naturally. But hiring the right people, who Also, team meetings and on-site meetings success. For Al Schwemler, Superintendent fit the organizations’ goals is essential. For assist in getting all involved and on the same at The Toronto Golf Club, this statement example, if a person does not enjoy or have page. This translates into productivity, and stands true. Producing a family atmosphere interest in a job, success may be difficult to a sense of inclusion amongst the staff. Being where all employees have an opportunity to achieve. People generally need to enjoy the approachable and allowing staff to solve add to their personal portfolio helps improve environment they work in. problems creates a better environment where morale. Staff are welcomed and encouraged The National Golf Club of Canada has a people can thrive. “First and foremost I’m to take courses to help shape their skillset. set ofcore values and beliefs, which help guide “It is part of the clubs culture as a whole. not a dictator, our mentality is everyone is at their workplace culture, communication, and Everybody likes to learn and the more the same level, including management,” says safety. And these standards encourage the they learn the better they are and we are,” Schwemler. “We work things out together staff to achieve excellence and continuous says Schwemler. “This helps keep people and I encourage them to work it out. Make improvement at their course. engaged.” them think is something my parents told me.” “We want people who love what we do The club employs 30 people, which is The club also has great perks including and that is provide a world class product,” typical for a maintenance staff. However, a gratuity fund, paid uniforms and lunches, says Murphy. approximately 20 have been in the staff socials, and gift cards for birthdays. He stresses the importance of getting staff organization over ten years, which speaks to Time-and-a-half is paid Saturdays and after to understand the big picture ofwhat they are the strength of the culture Schwemler and eight hours and double time on Sundays. doing on a daily basis. “We have found that his team have built. Holidays pay eight hours, plus time and a the people who thrive in our environment are With 26 years’ experience as a half. Employees are allowed to bank up to those who can balance the romance of The superintendent, Schwemler has developed 64 hours to put towards extra time off. This National with the reality of the hard work. management strategies based on his personal helps control fatigue and keeps staff interest experiences and the different methodologies at a high level. Continued on page 20... Continued from page 19... "...it's important to know your staff, because if you don't know them or treat them as an individual you may fail with that person. My goal may not be to build a team, but to build individual relationships." Grant Murphy, Associate Superintendent The National Golf Club of Canada We provide an exceptional experience for engaged and satisfied? This goes back to Since golf in Ontario is seasonal, it can our clients, but there is a lot of noise that understanding each employee and doing be difficult to keep people happy with their goes on behind the quiet. It’s not the work, your best to show them that they are a pay. “It is ultimately important, this is but the attitude of the worker that is critical valued asset. Murphy believes that this is why people work, but the jury is out,” says for creating that balance. It’s like the two as important as ever with the millennial Murphy. “Do you attract better people with tradesmen who are working side by side; generation. Whether certain staff need more money? I do think you keep good one of them is laying bricks and the other more feedback or more freedom, a pat on people with more money.” is building a cathedral. We want cathedral the back or a kick in the butt, this leads Throughout the years the National has builders! They are the ones who aren’t just to knowing each person and to challenge tried to incorporate ways to help keep staff raking bunkers, they are helping to set the these young individuals. “Are we paying motivated and engaged. What they have stage for an exceptional test of golf.” them enough, are we working them too found out is that all individuals are different, This makes hiring people that fit this hard, are we working them too little, in the and uniquely work to achieve their goals. model important. “The ones who don’t love end they don’t know how capable they are,” “We attempted to install all sorts of strategies it, you aren’t going to motivate or manage says Murphy. “There are always success to mitigate burn out and they have all failed,” that, people should be working because they stories every year.” At the National they says Murphy. “You can only appeal to a are a valuable contributor and asset to the feel that providing a fair pay check, safe percentage of the work force, you can’t appeal operation,” says Murphy. work environment and a place they can to a team you can only appeal to a person. So how do you keep valued employees enjoy is priority. You’ve got to know your people.” ■ 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 MEDINA Ph: 519-349-2400 • Fax:519-349-2421 EDWARDS Ph: 613-821-1880 • Fax:613-821-2919 TURF CARE www.turfcare.ca Helping your business grow. The Bethpage Black Experience Volunteering at a PGA Tour Playoff Event by Steve Rabski, Second Assistant Golf Course a world class golf course, it also provided Manager at Bayview Golf & Country Club endless networking opportunities, a closer Photos courtesy Steve Rabski & Ken Tilt look at tournament preparation and most importantly, it allowed us the opportunity to here is something to be said about the T Black Course at Bethpage State Park. Some may say it is the golden fescue that be part of a dedicated team. We also learned the value of volunteering as a turf manager, and why the experience is something that tightly wraps itself around the high faces of we would recommend to others. all eight acres ofbunkers. Others may discuss The idea of volunteering raised a lot of the aggressive elevation changes from tee to questions such as, what jobs we would be green. But those who have played will tell taking on, who we would be working with, you the course is summarized perfectly on and how we would learn to navigate our the first tee by a sign with bold red letters way around a new property in less than a that reads, “Warning: The Black course is week. As we drove into the parking lot of extremely difficult...”. This message greets the maintenance facility, all those questions every player as they prepare to tackle what Steve Rabski and Zack Stevens at the first tee would soon be answered. This feeling of is likely to be one of the most difficult with the infamous Bethpage warning sign. nervousness was quickly alleviated the challenges in golf. moment we stepped out of the car and Nestled in the small town of Farmingdale, another type of excitement present long shook hands with Director of Agronomy, New York, lays a highly appreciated before golfers and spectators arrive at the Mr. Andrew Wilson, and close colleague, property known as Bethpage State Park. course. This type of excitement comes from and well known turf professional, Dr. Frank Designed by Mr. A.W. Tillinghast, the the dozens of dedicated turf professionals Rossi. Bethpage is dear to Rossi’s heart with course was intended to be a true test of golf, that travel from across the country to come the Green Course project, and this was forcing players to not only demonstrate and help prepare for an exciting week of evident immediately upon making Rossi’s physical toughness, but mental toughness as early mornings, crucial pin placements acquaintance for the first time. The team well. Complete with five 18-hole facilities, and flawless bunker raking. During any was quick to show us around and introduce Bethpage was home to The Barclays 2016 tournament, the cameras cannot capture us to the men and women who had been golf tournament - the first of four events all the hard work that goes into providing working hard all summer to get the course that make up the FedEx Cup Playoffs. perfect playing conditions, yet teamwork is in championship shape. These people did The top 125 PGA players gathered to the main ingredient for a successful event. not just work at Bethpage, they truly felt showcase their talents in hopes of climbing This year I had the privilege of being able passionate about the place and cared dearly the rankings and being crowned the FedEx to volunteer at The Barclays along with about their work. Not to mention that they Cup champion. fellow Canadians Zack Stevens from The were somewhat relieved that backup had All of the nail-biting moments during Club at North Halton and Ken Tilt from arrived to help make the week a success. these tournaments make for an exciting Trafalgar Golf & Country Club. Our time finish to the long golf season. But there is at Bethpage not only allowed us to observe Continued on page 22... Continued from page 21... the job board for the first time and saw our Throughout the week jobs were rotated names accompanying the tasks of mowing between all the volunteers; tasks such Orientation took place that evening. This greens, mowing tees and fairways. Now the as greens mowing, tee mowing, rolling, was when we received our uniforms, details nerves began to really kick in. With our fairway mowing, repairing divots and the for the week, and the most anticipated industry experience these jobs were nothing occasional bunker raking were expected piece of information, our first job. The jobs new to us, however, performing such of any volunteer. A sense of pride we received at The Barclays were different routine tasks on a grand scale was certainly developed amongst the volunteers, as we from the ones that we had heard from other a special feeling. A trained eye for detail all accomplished our jobs, and strived to colleagues’ experiences volunteering. We goes into every job that takes place during perform them in the most seamless manner. were under the impression that we would a tournament; bunkers are to be edged As Zack Stevens said to me, having the either be raking bunkers, filling fairway perfectly, greens striped ever so straight and opportunity to see the course in person truly divots or doing some rotary mowing. So we fairways must be left tidy with no debris for makes the experience much more special. were slightly surprised when we looked at the camera. “Seeing PGA tournaments on television is one thing, however, walking across fairways, tees, greens, and taking in all of the elevation changes and intricacies of such a notable course is a remarkable experience. No filter can make the course seem as nice as with your own eyes in person. I would recommend volunteering to anyone in the industry. Understanding and being a part of an operation for a PGA tournament provides too many things to take away which makes it such an invaluable experience”. The week wrapped up successfully and as golfers interacted with volunteers and staff, they expressed their sincerest appreciation not only for the hard work that we did, but for just how special Bethpage was to them on a personal level. Most of all, it is encouraging to see that the tour professionals have such an appreciation for the game, and it certainly makes our job seem much more rewarding and that in itself made the experience a very special one. An interesting question to ask is why is volunteering important? From personal experience, there were several takeaways Top photo row, L-R: Hole #1, morning preparation on the Tuesday of the tournament; Zack Stevens mowing greens on the par 3 eighth at Bethpage; Watering greens Thursday evening. Bottom inset: The 18th hole on Saturday morning from volunteering at The Barclays, and like-minded people are working together energy, driven turf professionals was easily certainly each volunteer will have their towards a goal. Getting in an hour before the cherry on top of the whole week. Also, own unique experience to share with their sunrise and working in the dark with having the ability to meet interns, assistants, colleagues. other supers, assistants and interns is such and superintendents from all across the Firstly, from the beginning there was a great reward and experience. This year country was a really special experience. a sense of belonging that was established we had local volunteers plus volunteers Seeing everyone take time away from their between management, staff, and other from Canada, Chicago plus interns who clubs to come help the event really illustrated volunteers. We were a diverse team, and call England, Scotland and New Zealand how passionate these individuals are about there was a common goal at hand. This home.” our industry. It’s also worth mentioning the goal was to provide the best playing Looking back, it is evident now that superintendents who allowed for the time to conditions possible, and this was achieved staying composed during stressful times is be taken off by their assistants, which shows because of the hard work of dedicated essential, and all turf managers should have a lot of leadership on their behalf. individuals. As turf managers, it is part of a plan for when the unexpected happens. Volunteering at The Barclays allowed our job to make our staff feel comfortable, Bringing in nearly 100 volunteers that were us to gain knowledge that we will utilize while offering opportunities to set goals and new to the property must have caused some at our own courses and it has proven to to self-improve. In doing so, we provide concern for the management team, but the be a truly valuable experience that I will an enjoyable workplace and in turn help trust that they put in the volunteers allowed always remember. As Ken Tilt explains, improve efficiency on the course. them to remain at ease. This trust goes “participating in the 2016 Barclays was an This sense of leadership began a long way with employees, and when we amazing opportunity! Learning what it immediately with the strong presence of show that we trust our staff, this can help a takes to execute a professional event becomes the management team led by Mr. Andrew team accomplish goals as a unit. valuable knowledge for you and your club. I Wilson. With an event of this size, Wilson As mentioned earlier, in the turf industry would highly encourage everyone to make emphasized the important role that we work in a team environment and the volunteering a priority in their career.” volunteers have in achieving success. team can only work as a unified group if It is difficult to explain just how “Volunteers are essential for hosting an all parties involved trust each other. This important an experience like this is, but event like The Barclays. Our goal was to week proved that notion to be true, as I suggest you try it for yourself if you are complete morning maintenance around the the management staff allowed complete given the opportunity. I can promise that first tee time, roughly 7:30 am. Volunteers strangers to mow greens and tees during the volunteering experience will motivate make it possible to finish mowing greens, the most important week of the year. This you to not only excel in our profession, but tees and fairways plus rake almost eight makes me believe that we should be giving it will educate you on how to be a better acres worth of bunkers each day and then all our staff at our courses a chance to leader. check all the details once more before play.” prove themselves and showcase their true We would like to thank Andrew Wilson He also stressed how valuable of an potential. and his staff for making our experience experience it is to volunteer at a tournament Lastly, the most important takeaway a memorable one at The Barclays. Also, like The Barclays and the impact it has from this trip was the people I met at thank you to Ryan Scott, Mark Prieur on any turf managers career. “Having The Barclays. This is what truly made and Mike MacGillivray for allowing the volunteers also helps with team spirit. The volunteering an unforgettable experience time away from work to participate in this camaraderie develops pretty quickly when for me. Being surrounded by dozens of high unforgettable event. ■ ONTURF Lessons Learned From The 2016 Season t is an honour to be invited back to be a regular contributor to I the newly launched ONCourse. I hope that I can provide some timely and informative technical information to Ontario golf superintendents. HEAT AND HUMIDITY In a summer like 2016, although it was an extremely difficult summer to grow grass, especially annual bluegrass, it revealed some of the poor growing environments caused by shade, poor air movement, poor drainage, poor irrigation coverage, etc. that superintendents are trying to manage. Annual bluegrass putting surfaces that struggled, especially toward the end of summer’s heat wave are good areas to focus on now and over the next few years to try to create better growing environments for the future. Figure 1. A cross-section ofheavy textured wet soil on a golfgreen. Cool season turfgrasses have optimum temperatures for growth. The conditions this summer were supra-optimum or above optimum, DISEASES resulting in a decrease in photosynthesis. Essentially, the plant’s The heat and dry conditions early on in the summer seemed to mechanism for taking sunlight and making energy was compromised actually stall the onset of dollar spot. I saw many courses where due to the heat. Add to that the fact that there was an increase in dollar spot did not begin on fairways until early July, which is almost respiration rates as plants battled to stay alive and grow and the end unheard of. One disease that was very persistent this summer was result was that the turf simply ran out of energy. This is worse on brown patch (Figure 2). It is usually just a flash in the pan disease, heavy soils because they contain more water and water holds more but this summer it hung on for a good month to six weeks. heat than air, making the soils even hotter (Figure 1). The weakened We can be relieved that most areas did not receive torrential turf was then more susceptible to wear, disease and any cultural rains during the very hot spell. If we did have both rain and high practices that were thrown its way. temperatures, that would have set conditions up for summer patch. So what can be done about it now? We can learn from this extreme Luckily, that one two punch did not occur in many areas. summer and evaluate the greens growing environment for: • Shade INSECTS • Air movement The usual culprit, annual bluegrass weevil, did not seem to have • Surface and sub-surface drainage a large impact on turf this summer. Due to the variable weather in • Irrigation coverage and water quality the spring there seemed to be poor synchronization of the spring • Dominant turf species and migration of adults into fairways. This meant that the feeding was • Compaction not synchronized, which also meant less damage. There are some pretty cool tools to aid you with this process. One observation made by Dr. Pat Vittum, from the University Some of the ones we use in our consulting company are the “Sun of Massachusetts, was that the first generation of annual bluegrass Seeker” app for determining shade on a green. Another invaluable weevil damage occurred in the centre of fairways this spring, instead tool is a penetrometer to determine just how deep and how hard the of on the edges. Her thought is that perhaps the annual bluegrass compaction layer or layers are on a green. One tool that has been weevil overwintered in fairways last winter instead of in roughs and mentioned on Twitter is the FLIR® thermal camera. It is great for trees along the edges of fairways and migrated into the centre of showing just how hot it can be at a greens surface and how effective fairways to lay eggs. If this is the case, it is a change in behaviour a fan can be at reducing a greens surface temperature or how short­ that could result in a change in the approach to pesticide placement. lived a mid-day syringing can be for cooling the surface of a green. The idea of a sprayer width swath of insecticide along the edges of Simply letting the existing turfgrass species (probably annual fairways may no longer work. This was a one season observation bluegrass) come back without changing any of the above mentioned and may be a one-off so no need to change your approach to annual factors will keep you on the turf loss merry-go-round. One of the bluegrass weevil control yet. worst aspects of this season is that so many superintendents are going That brings me next to white grubs. At peak adult flights of into the fall/winter with turf that is still weak from the summer of European chafers we were in the middle of the very, very dry period. 2016. To make matters worse, the weather gurus are calling for a This usually forces adult chafer females to delay egg laying on harsh winter, so hang on to your hats, this ride could be a rough one. non-irrigated sites. However, the droughty conditions did persist Protective covers are used in many areas of Ontario to prevent winter injury. Different covers or cover combinations are recommended depending on your location, the amount of snow fall, and the type of injury that is prevalent. For instance, in the more northerly areas, where adequate insulating snow cover is present throughout the winter, impermeable covers alone are recommended because the snow keeps the greens temperature hovering around 0°C and the impermeable covers limit the occurrence of crown hydration in the spring. In other areas, where the amount of snow each winter varies, a system of a permeable cover, an insulating layer (usually straw, but can include drainage pipes in a serpentine pattern or any other form of an insulation layer) and an impermeable cover is recommended. Permeable covers can be used in the spring when winter protective covers are removed. It is also recommended that temperature under the protective covers be monitored throughout the winter. ANOXIA PREVENTION Anoxia can occur under an ice layer or under an impermeable protective cover. The most important factor in the prevention of anoxia is the turfgrass species, with Poa annua being much more Figure 2. Persistent brown patch symptoms on a golfgreen. susceptible to anoxia than creeping bentgrass. If an ice layer forms on a Poa annua golf green, it would be advisable that attempts be made to remove ice before the 45 day mark throughout the full month of adult flights, so I don’t know if the to prevent anoxic conditions from killing the turfgrass plants. This adults could delay egg laying for that extended period of time. I can be accomplished through the use of dark coloured topdressing think it is safe to say that there will be fewer grubs on non-irrigated materials that can absorb heat. These can range from natural organic turf this fall. If there are grubs on non-irrigated turf, they would fertilizers to coloured topdressing sands, inorganic amendments, probably have developed later than usual and the damage would etc. These products honeycomb the ice layer, allowing for gaseous be at least a couple of weeks later than normal. On irrigated turf, exchange. If ice layers are thick and persistent, mechanical disruption everything occurred as it would in a normal year. with a core aerator may be warranted in the spring. Another part of this puzzle is that the turf came back really well If greens are covered for crown hydration protection with a during August and September in most areas, so there may be grubs permeable cover, straw and impermeable covers, it is recommended feeding but I have not seen or heard of widespread grub damage this that these greens be vented using perforated drain pipe under the fall. There is the usual feeding from secondary pests that started to impermeable covers to prevent anoxia. These pipes must vent to the occur in late September and will continue until the ground is frozen. outside of the greens covers without letting water in under the covers. This can be accomplished by hooking up a leaf blower to the pipes. LOOKING FORWARD Many superintendents are experimenting with different insulation The winter of 2014 is still vivid in many of our minds. Those layers, venting methods and venting spacing. With each passing that lost a lot of turf and were fortunate enough to have completely winter, more information on specific recommendations should be rebuilt root-zones and re-grassed greens are the winners, but many available to superintendents. superintendents only had the budget to buy a lot of creeping bentgrass On greens with poor surface drainage and without protective seed, throw it down and hope for the best. If nothing else changed, covers, superintendents are also experimenting with techniques that chances are the putting surfaces are back to being dominated by remove a strip of sod from greens and collars to create a channel that annual bluegrass. allows water from melting snow to exit off the surface of the green in There are some general recommendations for winterizing turf the spring. They are also experimenting with removing surface water against the two most common types of winter injury - crown on greens with large squeegees during the spring freeze/thaw cycles. hydration and anoxia. These include: In addition, others are removing snow off the greens in the spring, • Raise the mowing height in the fall again to help prevent crown hydration. • Fertilize with nitrogen in the fall, but no later than mid­ There have been many hard frosts now and winter is just around September the corner. Here’s hoping that the weather gurus are wrong and that • Avoid high levels of potassium in turf tissue going into fall all of the golf course turf survives this winter! ■ • A 1:1 N to K ratio in turf tissue recommended in the fall • Provide adequate surface and sub-surface drainage • Maximize creeping bentgrass populations Pam Charbonneau, B.Sc., M.Sc. • Minimize shade Turfgrass Consultant • Minimize thatch DCS & Associates • Alleviate soil compaction pam@dcsturf.com OFF THE FAIRWAY Foilage, Not Just Flowers, For Colour eaves can be used to build architecture and can be treated as a offer welcome relief in urban settings and meditational refuges L source of colour in addition to the flowers. Foliage has an essential and complex function in the plant such as Japanese tea gardens. Blue and blue-green foliage found in fescue and oat grass, create a cool and elegant link to other world; it converts sunlight to life-sustaining sugars. For example, colours in a garden. Blue leaves mixed with purple-leaf plants and in garden design, leaves assume equally important roles, because magenta flowers are a spectacular combination. they prolong a border’s attractions through the season, giving it You might associate yellow flowers with the sunny peak of depth, flow, and personality. Whereas flash-in-the-pan flowers summer, but golden foliage conveys instant warmth to a landscape display vibrant colours timed to guide inbound pollinators, leaves year-round. Especially valuable in regions dominated by cloudy put on a longer-running show. skies and diffused light, gold-leaf plants supply the missing Leaves can be used to build architecture and can be treated as sunshine. Shady areas, a frequent challenge in mature landscapes, hedging, ground cover, background, striking specimen, and foliage can be brightened by utilizing shade tolerant plant material bearing can even help define garden contours and skylines. yellow hues in their foliage. You have many options when it comes In fact, planting limits to green palettes can be as attractive as to painting the border gold. The gold-tone leaf has become a a show of blooms. Of all colours, green is viewed and observed focus in recent breeding and gilds everything from ground covers most easily, using various only shades of green, and interweaving and vines to trees. delicate, airy foliage with coarser leaves, creates an impressive Colours can be described as cool or warm. For example, green tapestry that’s easy on the eyes. In an all-green garden, a single and blue are cool colours. They are usually associated with water, plant with bold, dramatic foliage assumes the focal point, where sky and forest and they evoke relaxed and calm feelings. Red, flowers would usually stand, and it has equal impact. orange and yellow are warm colours often associated with heat, As ifgreen’s foliar offerings weren’t gorgeous enough, a leaf hue can fire and the sun, and because of this, they demand attention span the entire spectrum; purple, red, blue, silver, and golden foliage and evoke excitement. Purple is often confusing because it can all supply pigments for composing vibrant garden masterpieces. be either a cool or warm colour - it depends on other colours Colour-splattered leaves, such as those found in coleus, match almost that appear adjacent to it in a landscape. When purple appears any other leaf or flower colour. Many plants also have contrasting near blue, it is perceived as a cool colour. For example, fast food leaf veins that coordinate with other foliage colours. restaurants typically use warm colours to excite customers and get Every foliar hue has a special effect in the border; green calms them in and out the door faster, whereas hospitals typically use and soothes, which is why gardens designed mainly with greens cool colours in rooms to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. So choose your colour combinations with their locations in mind, and consider what kind of atmosphere you are trying to create, while keeping in mind the effects of foot traffic. Also, when you are designing, it is interesting to consider using foliage during seasonal changes. Seasonal changes have a great impact on colour in the landscape and many plants have David C. Smith, P.Ag., c.g.c.s significant spring or fall colouration that is quite different from other seasons. This factor can lead to exciting plant combinations dave@dcsturf.com and colour schemes that can change entirely from one season to the next. Most foliage shows a hint of gold when first emerging Rob Witherspoon, b.sc. m.Sc. in spring, and most tree and shrub foliage turns to burnished gold, prompted by fall frosts. Conifers, including Chamaecyparis, wear rob@dcsturf.com winter cloaks of gold-tinged green. For example, a landscape might express a monochromatic scheme of whites and pinks in the spring, cool greens in the summer, warm and energetic Pam Charbonneau, b.sc. m.sc. colours in the fall, and finally calm greens and browns for the pam@dcsturf.com winter. These seasonal changes can be used to create additional interest and richness in the landscape. Season changes can also lead to clashes if individual plants change to a colour that does not harmonize with the other plants during that particular season. Office 705-687-7645 The seasonality of colour is essential to consider when planning and designing every landscape. Toll Free 1-888-607-TURF It is also important to consider the colour effects of evergreen versus deciduous plants. Evergreen foliage provides permanent www.dcsturf.com colour in a landscape since these plants are green year-round. Deciduous plants drop their leaves for the winter, but often still possess great winter interest in their bark colour and branch structure. Many ornamental grasses turn a pleasant tan or gold colour for the winter. These qualities can be used to create winter plant combinations that have subtle, yet beautiful, colour schemes. Breeding has led to an incredible amount of selection when it comes to foliage colour. You can get completely different colours in the same species. For example, Physocarpus (Ninebark), now have varieties with leaf colours of gold (Dart’s gold Ninebark), and a dark maroon (Diabolo Ninebark) which can be used together for an excellent contrast. Spireas come in multiple foliage colours OF COURSE WE DO as well. Some have new growth that changes from red to yellow, and there are some that are bright yellow all season. Dogwoods have variegated varieties, and Sambucus (Elderberry) come in multiple foliage colours, all of which can be used in combination together. Willows have variegated varieties, with pink hues in new growth (Flamingo dappled Willow), as well as white variegation, and shades of green with a bluish hue (Blue arctic Willow). The list is really endless when it comes to suggesting species which contain beautiful foliage colour. May I suggest that you consider Barberry’s, Japanese maples, Smoke trees - the combination possibilities have no limits with all that is available. ■ With a variety of speciality GOLF Course turfs, we have the equipment and expertise to also provide: Chris Cumming CLP, Horticulturist • Turf recovery • Aeration • Transplanting Muskoka Lakes G&CC •Turf replacement • Seeding • Redefining grass lines Port Carling, Ontario • Sod stripping • Overseeding • Damage repair Email: chriscumming@live.ca Tel: 705-765-3165 HAMILTON: 905.389.1315 CAMBRIDGE: 519.653.7494 Cell: 705-644-3994 GreenhorizonsSod.com MEMBER MOMENTS 1: Hawk soaring over Hole #3. Dave Paterson, Superintendent, Summit Golf & Country Club | 2: Staff showing some Blue Jays support. Mike Magwood, Superintendent, Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club | 3: Beautiful fall morning at The Club at North Halton. Ryan Scott, Superintendent, The Club at North Halton | 4: Beautiful view in the morning at Weston Golf & Country Club. Matt Legg, Assistant Superintendent, Weston Golf & Country Club | 5: Not sure if this is October or May! Joe Adams, Superintendent, Flamborough Hills Golf & Country Club. LOOKING BACK Twenty Years Ago Today n 1996, the OGSA Board of Directors were: Ray Richards, Mad River GC, 2nd 1,500 people attended with Bruce Burg­ I were; Alex LaBelle, President, Merry Hill GC, John Taylor, Past President, Rob Stevens, Conestoga GC and 3rd Steve Hallard, Cedar Brae GC. Low er being the OGSA representative on the committee. Twenty Valley GC, Simon George, Vice gross superintendent was Robbie Robin­ The Annual Curling Day meeting was President, Oakville GC, Ian Bowen, Os- son (79), Hidden Lake GC, and low net held at the Club at North Halton hosted hawa G&CC, Paul Dodson, Lionhead superintendent was Pelino Scenna (68), by Alan Beeney. The winning team was G&CC, Bob Heron, Beacon Hall GC, Burlington G&CC. Dean Baker, Corrie Almack and Nigel Paul White, Mississaugua G&CC, Jer­ Rennie. The Spring Field Day was held at ry Richard, Craigowan G&CC, John Bob Hutcheson from Hutcheson the Guelph Turfgrass Institute. Alex Gravett, Credit Valley G&GC, Keith Sand and Mixes hosted the OGSA/ LaBelle unveiled a plaque in recognition Bartlett, Thornhill G&CC, Monte An­ Hutcheson Ski Day at Osler Bluff Ski of Dr. Clay Switzer’s contributions to derson, Point West GC, Jim Flett, Mus- Hill on February 21st. the turfgrass industry. Golf followed at koka Lakes G&CC, and Mark Piccolo the Galt CC hosted by Mark Piccolo. The OGSA covered the cost of (editor), Galt CC. Cindi Charters was the office manager. The President/Greens Chairman/Board outfitting all golfers with soft spikes on of Directors/Superintendent Event was their shoes to promote their use at an AWARDS: Dr. Jack Eggens was the John held at Angus Glen GC hosted by Ernie OGSA Border Cities golf and meeting B. Steel Distinguished Award recipient held at Beach Grove G&CC, hosted by Amsler. Jeff Burgess’ team from Weston presented at the CGSA Conference, held Randy Hooper. G&CC was the winner. Terri Yamada in Vancouver in early March. was the guest speaker and updated us The Guelph Turfgrass Institute joined At the GCSAA Conference held in on the progress of the Audubon Co- the ever growing community of turfgrass Orlando, Paul Dermott of Oakdale Operative Sanctuary Program. and golf related sites on the internet. G&CC was presented with the The Summer Field Day was held at the Two workers were fatally injured while Environmental Steward Award upon Cutten Club on August 11th hosted by achieving Oakdale’s designation as scuba diving to recover golf balls at local Richard Creed. golf courses, which brought to our at­ a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.” The Alex McClumpha Memorial Golf tention that a golf course could be held Tournament was held at Nobleton Lakes responsible if the proper safety measures TOURNAMENTS: The Pro/Superin- GC hosted by Barry Endicott. Bill were not implemented. ■ tendent tournament was held in May at Fach, Rosedale GC and Bob Heron, Glen Abbey GC hosted by Superinten­ Beacon Hall GC were the winners. dent Dean Baker. Low gross team for Barry Endicott superintendents were: 1st Scott Dyker, EVENTS: The Ontario Turfgrass Sym­ Retired Golf Course Beverley G&CC, 2nd Ted DeCorso, posium was held for the first time in Superintendent Victoria Park West GC, and 3rd Dan La­ Toronto at the Constellation Hotel as Brampton, Ontario vis, Ingersoll GC. Low net team winners a result of changes to the academic cal­ Tel: 905-846-1440 endar at the University of Guelph. Over harry.endicott@gmail.com LARGE TREE SALES AND RELOCATION Corrie Almack P.Ag. Phil Dickie-ISA Certified Arborist ON-0309A pdickie@fastforest.ca Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 Box 256, Carlisle, ON Cell: (416) 580-5152 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca P: (519) 748-6610 • F: (519) 748-6626 • www.fastforest.ca TURF OR CONSEQUENCES State of the Game Article #357 by Doug Breen, Superintendent (God bless them) decided that any course to our target market. The fact that I have GolfNorth Properties worth its salt needed forty acres of utterly no idea what the correct word would be, is unmaintainable bunkers. Then they built likely symptomatic of the problem. here have been about a million articles mounds that the Ministry of Labour won’t I’ve been reading a lot about Arnold T written about the decline of golf’s even let us cut anymore, and we all decided profitability as an industry. Some theorizethat fairways needed to be 200 yards wide, Palmer since we lost him. He was a blue collar hero to millions. His father was a that there are too many courses and not and covered with bentgrass, cut at 1970’s course superintendent, living in a house enough golfers. Some theorize that we’ve green heights. which (according to legend) didn’t even designed courses that are simply too have indoor plumbing. He learned to expensive to maintain, and that our turf play on that local course, and competed in budgets are responsible for the shrinking tournaments on nearby municipal courses. bottom line. While both of these things He pulled himself up by his own bootstraps, may be true, I’m proposing that the root and earned the right to be held up among cause of our financial woe, is that we’ve the kings of golf. Many would argue that become as dull as ditch water. he was The King of golf. When he and No question, the industry overestimated Jack played on TV on the weekend, millions the number of courses which would be tuned in to watch a simple, humble man required to service the hordes of retiring - a man like themselves. People love an baby boomers. We (quite reasonably) underdog. Happy Gilmore - unruly, and assumed that they would want to continue coached by a Pro who lost a fight over a ball to play the quantity (and quality) of golf with a gator. Tin Cup - deeply flawed, but that they played on their work expense honest and true to himself. accounts; after they didn’t have to go to The “Average Joe” doesn’t see himself on work anymore. One could reasonably the PGA tour anymore - he sees Shooter surmise that they might even want to play McGavin - a whole boring, saccharine more - but they didn’t. Who knew that Flat Revenues + Rising Costs = Less course full of them. NCAA coached, they’d be more interested in Geocaching Profit. They teach you this on the first countless hours of media training, and and Tai Chi? Turns out that they loved golf, day of Business 101. The good news; is without a shred of personality or sincerity. when someone else was paying for it, but not that there are many, many available tee Think I’m being too harsh? Explain the so much when it was their money. times. Empty tee sheets are often held up popularity of John Daly then. The long It’s also hard to debate the fact that turf in despair, as a sign of dire straits - but if drives, the pants, the smoking, the guitar budgets have exploded. When I started in the sheets have blank spaces, we have the playing in the nearest Hooters - he was an the mid-eighties, we’d cut an entire property opportunity to fill them. But how? outsider with the cojones to stand out. with two triplexes and a couple $5000 gang I believe that we’ve become “uncool”, and I believe that golf is declining, due to a mowers. Now a rough mower costs more we need to make golf “cool” again. I’m sure shocking shortage of interesting, erratic than a pickup truck, and lasts about half that “cool” isn’t even the right word to use characters. People (including me) don’t see as long. Around the same time, architects anymore, and sounds like “hep” or “groovy” enough players on tour who they’d want to emulate - or even meet. When kids play hockey they want to be the reckless bad boy. NASCAR is rife with loose cannons. Basketball and Football - come on! But Premium Products golf is just one upper middle class frat-boy, for all Your Turf Needs in a white belt, after the next. We’re not just “uncool”, we’re “icky”. Golf needs a janitor PO Box 7, Waterloo. ON N2J3Z6 who can do math, or an overlooked minor college QB who gets his shot. We need Tel: 519-886-0557 Bull Durham. I believe that people aren’t Fax: 519-886-0605 playing golf because they don’t identify with 1-800-465-5849 us - actually, they dislike us. In the name of all that’s holy - someone do something www.oscturf.com different this weekend. ■ Fashionably Late Most cool-season turfgrass managers stop using soil surfactants - in early autumn when the summer stress period is over. However, a late season application of REVOLUTION or DISPATCH just before you blow out your irrigation system can provide many important turf benefits before the ground freezes in winter and after the ground thaws in early spring. BENEFITS INCLUDE: • Late Autumn: Ensure maximum penetration of any rainfall or snowmelts that occur and improve soil moisture levels before the ground freezes. • Winter: Prevent crown hydration injury by ensuring free water drains off of the surface during snowmelts. • Spring: When the rootzone thaws in early spring, Revolution or Dispatch will still be present in the soil, improving soil moisture levels and maximizing photosynthesis and root growth. TRY A LATE SEASON APPLICATION THIS FALL! Contact your local Aquatrols distributor today or visit www.aquatrols.com for more information. For more information please contact your Turf Care Sales Representative: COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT Tom Fischer, Sales Manager 705-791-4653 Andy Sandilands, Eastern Ontario 416-347-5056 Bill Martel, GTA, 416-606-6509 Derek Therrien, Ottawa 613-290-7403 Chris Emerton, Northern Ontario 905-715-6285 S/W ONTARIO & NIAGARA PENNINSULA Steve Conners, 519-319-0539 Aaron Campbell, 519-899-3023 Jason Sewell, 519-476-6548 GOLF IRRIGATION Sean Lavin, Sales Manager 905-715-3985 Scott Fiddes, S/W Ontario 416-606-9908 Gordon Johansson, Eastern Ontario 613-720-2795 DPA Cutting Units with all-new EdgeSeries Reels for Improved Greens & Fairways The all-new family of EdgeSeries reels represent the next generation of cut quality and wear-resistant durability. EdgeSeries innovations include new - longer lasting - materials, even more precise manufacturing techniques and well-researched design changes to both the reel and bedknife geometry that come together to provide an outstanding quality of cut with less maintenance. The EdgeSeries delivers multiple benefits that will leave your Greens and Fairways looking their absolute best! Put more “green” in your baskets and your pocket with Toro’s innovative new EdgeSeries reels. For a FREE DEMO please contact your Turf Care Sales Representative. www.turfcare.ca EdgeSeries Reels TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 200 Pony Drive, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 7B6 T: 905-836-0988 I F: 905-836-6442 Medina: 519-349-2400 TURFCARE Helping your business grow. Mississauga: 905-836-0988 x 5404 Carp: 61 3-839-7474