November 2017 ON COURSE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS' ASSOCIATION Communicating in a Crisis Are you prepared? ALSO INSIDE THIS ISS Modernizing Your Operation Before They Go, Get the Know Mentorship in Motion CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OGSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON NIL OH2 Tru-prill fertilizer particles dissolve into the tightest turf canopies with no disruption of play. Homogeneous Greens Micro Tru-prill 15-2-15 micro Tru-prill 19-0-17 micro Tru-prill 13-1-13 micro ISO-B, PBO, Ca, Mg, Zn, Mn, Fe MU, Ca, Mg, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, B AS, Ca, Mg, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, B Tru-prill 18-2-18 micro Tru-prill 8-16-16 micro Natures Time 7-2-5 Greens MU, Ca, Mg, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, B ISO-B, PBO, Ca PBO, trace micronutrients Tru-prill 18-0-18 micro Tru-prill 10-2-20 micro ISO-B, MU, Ca, Mg, Zn, Mn, Fe, Cu, B MU, Ca, Mg, micros 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 BrettYoung is a trademark of Brett-Young Seeds Limited. 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 ith the golf season coming to a close, I hope that everyone W is taking time to enjoy the nice fall weather before winter grips Ontario. The summer months were busy for the board. Representatives Editor from OGSA and NAGA Ontario met with Conservative MPP, Sally Ross Ted Arnott (Critic, Environment and Climate Change) to discuss manager@ogsa.ca both the proposed increase to minimum wage, the public meeting requirement and the surrounding red tape in Regulation 63/09 of Publisher the Pesticides Act. Mr. Arnott has a very good understanding of By Cory Janzen Terry Davey OGSA President our industry and had some great suggestions for us moving forward. Significant change will be difficult and likely require a Conservative terry@blenheim.ca majority in next year’s election however the OGSA will continue to work with the Provincial Government on issues important to our members. Advertising & Administrative Manager We are also aware of the proposed changes to the pesticide licensing system. The Diane Davey MOECC has not provided us with much information about the changes but we have diane@blenheim.ca expressed our interest in being consulted on any potential changes in writing. Tel: 289-337-4305 In the spirit of two-way communication (the theme of this month’s ONCourse issue), I want to encourage members to register for the 2018 Conference. This conference is your chance to share your experiences with the OGSA Board, industry leaders and fellow Production & Design members, and stay current in the field. Conference Chair, Jason Boyce and Executive Patrick Kilborn Director, Sally Ross are putting the finishing touches on the event, which is once again, patrick@blenheim.ca in Niagara Falls. The education program is excellent and there is outstanding value as the registration includes several meals and networking events. We have made some minor tweaks to an already great experience and we are confident it will be the best show yet - please join us! ONCourse is published four times a year As usual, we are looking for volunteers to write articles for ONCourse and serve on our (November / March / June / August) Board and Committees. I know that we are all busy, but getting involved in the association by Blenheim INK for: is very rewarding and educational. Please contact Sally or any of the Board members if you are interested - you will be glad you did. Reflecting back on this year as President, I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of the Board members, Sally, and her staff. I am always impressed by the professionalism and hard work that everyone demonstrates, and this really has made it a rewarding year! Lastly, thank you to all OGSA members - we are grateful that you see value in what we do. See you at the Conference! ■ Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association Delivering SUPERIORSOD AND QUALITYSERVICE Sally Ross, Executive Manager Guelph Turfgrass Institute • #1 Kentucky Bluegrass • Low Mow 328 Victoria Road South • Extreme Fescue Guelph, ON N1L0H2 • Premium Bentgrass Tel: 519-767-3341 • Custom Grown Toll Free: 877-824-6472 Sod Available Fax:519-766-1704 • Large or Small Rolls Email: manager@ogsa.ca www.ogsa.ca Living.. Breathing... REALGRASS IS REITER! Published by Blenheim INK HEALTHIER! Administration Office: 503-5340 Lakeshore Road Phone:877-727-2100 Burlington, ON L7L 7A8 www.zandersod.com www.blenheim.ca STAYING POWER The quality soil surfactant combining long-term strength and application flexibility Sixteen90™ is a proven soil surfactant chemistry Benefits of Sixteen90: with staying power. Sixteen90 is specifically • Provides excellent, long-term control over water repellency formulated to provide outstanding water • Flexibility to use as a bi-weekly, monthly or management performance, with built-in 90 day program flexibility to best fit your golf course's • Improves water movement in the soil profile unique challenges. • Improves turf quality • Safe for use on all turf varieties To learn more about Sixteen90™, contact your authorized distributor today. INSIDE THIS ISSUE INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ALMACK AGRONOMIC SERVICES INC. 22 AQUATROLS 4 www.aquatrols.com BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 25 www.braemarbuildings.com BRETTYOUNG 2 www.brettyoung.ca FAST FOREST 22 www.fastforest.ca FMC 31 www.fmcprosolutions.com GREEN HORIZONS SOD FARMS 23 www.greenhorizonssod.com Features ONTARIO SEED COMPANY 21 9 Superintendent Recognition www.oscturf.com 10 GC Highlight & Member Profile RD. SOLUTIONS 19 John Gall, Superintendent, Cherry Hill www.pdsolutions.ca 13 Modernizing Your Operation TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 15,12 www.turfcare.ca 14 Assistants Tournament Recap TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA (IRRIGATION) 7 16 Communicating in a Crisis www.turfcare.ca/flowtronex 20 Before They Go, Get the Know TURFGRASS CANADA (TARGET SPECIALTY PRODUCTS) 29 22 Mentorship in Motion www.target-specialty.com Regular Contributors VAN ROESTEL CONTRACTING LTD. 23 8 What's New ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 3 www.zandersod.com 24 Off the Fairway 26 Looking Back ONCOURSE2017 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. All rights are reserved by the publisher and 3 President's Message any reproduction in whole or part without the written permission of the publisher is 7 Editorial Message prohibited. Although some trade names may 28 Member Moments be mentioned in articles contained in this publication, no endorsement is intended or implied by the Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. ON THE COVER ONCOURSE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE OGSA is committed to serving its members, Deer Ridge Golf Club, spring 2017. Lacy Droste, Stephen Hicks, Kevin Kobzan, Sally Ross, advancing their profession, and enriching Photo courtesy of Jason Winter. Al Schwemler, Cam Shaw, Ken Tilt, Courtney White the quality of golf and its environment. "We are all in this together" EDUCATION SESSIONS Just What the Grass Requires: Using and Understanding the MLSN Guidelines for 2018 ONTARIO GOLF COURSE Nutrient Recommendations MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE Leaves of Grass: Applications and Implications of Clipping Volume Fallsview Casino Resort Conference Centre Dr. Micah Woods, Ph.D. Chief Scientist at the Asian & Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites Turfgrass Center, Assis­ tant-Adjunct Professor at the University of Tennessee Niagara Falls, ON | JANUARY 16-18,2018 The Rising Threat of Fungicide Resistance & Benefits of Fairway Rolling Keynote Speaker: Dr. Geunhwa Jung, Ph.D. Professor, University of Tuesday January 16th, 2018 Massachusetts, Stockbridge School of Agriculture Bill Carr High Performance Putting Award-Winning Comedian & With Opening Surfaces Motivational Speaker Night Party at Dr. Frank Rossi, Ph.D. New York Extension Bill Carr is known as an actor, award Jimmy Buffett's Turfgrass Specialist, winning satirist, writer, and speaker. For over twenty-five years, Bill has Margaritaville! Associate Professor of been making people laugh at what's trivial while helping them think Turfgrass Science in the deeply about what counts. Bill's keynote speeches help people see Department of Horticulture their world in new and exciting ways. His unique blend of humour at Cornell University and insight inspires laughter and consideration. Bill is comfortable with audiences from 12 to 1200 and beyond. Human Resource Session Bob Farren Director of Golf Course Maintenance and Grounds at Pinehurst Resort Registration Now Open! Technology Session Special Early Bird rates available until November 30th. 'We Grow Golf' Go to the OGSA website for more details! J. Paul Robertson www.ogsa.ca Superintendent and Project Room rates $109 - $139 Manager at Victoria Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites Golf Club Free parking at Hilton Hotel; WiFi included EDITORIAL MESSAGE n effective commu- the playbook gets shelved. Communication is A nication play­ book is one also essential to effective daily processes and is vital to the human resources function at a golf of the most under­ club, and not just when hiring. What happens rated, yet incredibly when an employee decides to move on? powerful tools in Cam Shaw’s article gives us insight into the any organizations advantages of conducting an exit interview. By Sally Ross OGSA Executive tool box, in any I don’t think we could talk about OGCM Conference Manager & Courtney White, Guest Editor industry. This issue of ONCourse focuses the importance of keeping the lines of communication open without touching on Agenda Highlight on several ways an the latest and greatest in technology. Jason WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2018 effective communication strategy can enhance VanBuskirk discusses how digital whiteboards employee satisfaction, ease your work load and are revolutionising communication between Bill Carr help you navigate through a crisis. superintendents and their staffin the workplace. Our writers took to the courses to talk to Once you’ve created or added to your own Work Inspired experts in their respective fields to discuss how communication playbook, don’t miss this Bill explores research into how the brain their preferred strategies impact their role and issue’s member profile, contributed by Stephen works and how we can use this knowledge their day to day process! Hicks, highlighting the career of John Gall to create an environment that will nurture Robert Thompson speaks to three and the history of the Cherry Hill Club. a creative response to change and keep a superintendents who were each faced with a And finally, Doug Breen keeps us in stitches healthy perspective in unhealthy times. crisis situation. Discover how they survived as he recounts his summer mission to play all Bill focuses on empathy and what he calls those challenging times by recognizing 31 of Golf North’s courses as way to avoid "contagious inspiration" and discusses how potential implications and reacting quickly hitting the gym, but what he took from the nurturing our relationship with ourselves to ensure all stakeholders were kept informed experience was far more than better health! and others can re-wire our neuro-pathways until the issues were resolved. Thankfully not Enjoy all this and more in this issue of and change surviving into thriving and every day brings a crisis, but that does not mean ONCourse! ■ tragedy into strategy. ■ FUTURE PROOF DESIGN. INFINITY Series Golf Sprinklers Top accessibility with patented SMART ACCESS design that features built in upgradeability, with no digging. Lower your operating costs, increase watering efficiency and FUTURE PROOF your course. *BUY 4 SPRINKLERS - GET 1 FREE! (use promo code ONCOURSE) Contact the Turf Care Golf Irrigation Sales Team to order or book a demo: 1-800-561-TURF I go If irrigationsales@turfcare.ca I turfcare.ca/golf-irrigation TURFCARE Helping your business GROW. Products Canada Limited Exclusive TORO Distributor for Ontario and Quebec Join the conversation: twit er @TurfCareProdCA *limit 2 free sprinklers per course WHAT'S NEW By Sally Ross, OGSA Executive Manager Joint Event with GBGSA We had an excellent turnout for the GBGSA Year End Finale & OGSA Alex McClumpha WELCOME Memorial Tournament joint event held late September at Rocky Crest Golf Club. Almost to Our New Members 130 golfers braved the scorching heat to play this beautiful course in its idyllic location. While the format changed slightly to accommodate both associations, we still managed to keep some of the McClumpha tournament traditions including the presentations of the George Darou Chris Chapman Class A Trophy, which went to John McLinden from Ladies Golf Club of Toronto, and the plaque to Camelot Golf & Country Club our host superintendent, Jeremy Geer. We hope to continue creating partnerships with our Regional Associations for events. Andrea Gelinas Class C Devil's Pulpit Golf Association Jeff Hansen Class C Vespra Hills Golf Club Kim McCarthy Class C King's Forest Golf Course Bradley Miller Class C Westhaven Golf Club Carol Turner Class F Ladies Golf Club of Toronto Ready to go. Board and Staff Changes This past September we said goodbye to OGSA Director (Vice President) Rod Speake. We would like to thank Rod for his almost 7 years of service and wish him well in his position at Pickseed Canada Inc. The OGSA also said goodbye to Natalie Andrusko this past month, who moved on The winning team (L-R) Jay Sisko, Superintendent, Mike Ovell (L), Assistant Superintendent, receives to take a position closer to her home. We Idylwylde G&CC, JeffAllen, Superintendent, Lake a plaquefrom Nicholas Bell, for hosting a successful would like to welcome Courtney White to Joseph GC, Mike Pellerin, Superintendent, Saugeen event at Rocky Crest GC. the OGSA. GC, and Mark Kay, Superintendent, Stone Ridge GC. Notice of Annual- General Meeting WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2018 The OGSA Annual General Meeting will be held in the Maple A & B Rooms at the Casino Fallsview Conference Centre on Wednesday, January 17th, 2018. Annual reports and financial statements will be available at the meeting and posted online Tom Fischer (L)from Turf Care Products presents Photo Courtesy ofKevin Doyle. shortly thereafter. Official notice of meeting the George Darou trophy to John McLinden of and agenda will be posted on the OGSA Ladies Golf Club of Toronto. website in accordance with our by-laws. Superintendent Recognition Conference Registration and Planning The Early Bird Registration deadline is November 30, 2017. Please register as soon as possible to save on your cost to attend and to facilitate our planning process. Our opening night off-site party will be held at Margaritaville. A ticket for the event is included in your package if you are registered for the opening day. Extra tickets are available as the facility has a large capacity. Please call the office if you wish to acquire extra tickets. Support of Turf Research Mike Pellerin, OGSA Board Director (L), presents (L-R) Jason Boyce, OGSA Secretary/Treasurer, a plaque to Superintendent, Jamie Downton, at presents a plaque to Superintendent, Perry Sawmill Creek GolfResort, for hosting the Ontario Beausoleil, and GM, Matt Clitheroe, at Hylands Juvenile (U17) Boy' & Girls' Championships. GCfor hosting the Canadian PGA Tour - National Capital Open to Support our Troops. Sean Gunn (L), OTRF President, accepts a $20,000 cheque presented by Cory Janzen, OGSA President, on behalf of the OGSA. Cory Janzen, OGSA President attended the OTRF Fundraising Tournament held Tim Muys (L), OGSA Board Director, presents a Ian McQueen (L), Superintendent, St. Georges at Devil’s Pulpit and presented a cheque for plaque to Superintendent, Jim Moore, at Puslinch G&CC, receives a plaque from Owen Russell, $20,000.00 to Sean Gunn, OTRF President, Lake GC, for hosting the Ontario PeeWee Girls' & OGSA Board Director, for hosting the in support of turf research. ■ Boys' Championships. Invictus Games. GC Highlight Member Profile Cherry Hill Club 912 Cherry Hill Boulevard Ridgeway, ON Member Since 1982 LOS 1 NO 905 894 1122 John Gall johngall@cherryhillclub.ca Superintendent, Cherry Hill Club By: Stephen Hicks, Assistant Golf Course www.cherryhillclub.ca Superintendent, Brantford Golf and Country Club ince the age of 12, John Gall has been About the Course Built in 1922 by American interests (for obvious reasons) during the Prohibition times, and still S actively involved in the golf industry. “I caddied at Thornhill when I was 12 to 15,” states Gall in a candid interview. It maintains a 75% American membership. was during this time that he befriended Many members own property on the north shore of Lake Erie. David Gourlay Jr., and the two enjoyed many rounds together. David’s father, Architect: Walter Travis; Ian Andrew (2008 - Gourlay Sr., was the Superintendent of bunkers, select tees and grassing lines) Thornhill at a time when John’s father was Type of Club: Private Club a member. Gourlay Jr. notes “It was a big Number of Holes: 18 no no to hire a member’s son at the club, Number of Rounds Annually: 15,000 but I made a case with my father and John nature the role offered. It wasn’t long was hired.” One particularly memorable before he worked his way up to Assistant Practice Facility: Driving and Short Range round, Gall and Gourlay Jr. discovered at Thornhill in 1979. several Black Turfgrass Ataenius (BTA) After eight years at Thornhill, he after inspecting two large divots on the recognized a similar phenomenon to what Major Challenges 8th hole. After finishing their round, we see today; little to no opportunity for Heavy clay parent soils creating drainage they told Gourlay Sr., and an application movement in the Greater Toronto Area. issues and managing original 1922 pushup of insecticide took place based on their So in 1980, at age 22, Gall made the big style greens. active scouting. Gall enjoyed the job and decision to move on, taking a position at took a liking to the physical and outdoor Sault Ste. Marie Country Club as their In the Hot Seat Q: Favourite tournament? Q: Utlimate Foursome? Q: Favourite TV Show: A: Masters A: Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus and A: Seinfeld Sam Snead Q: Favourite Piece of Equipment? Q: Lowest round? A: Toss- up between a deep-tine Q: Favourite Movie or Book? A: 72 at Thornhill, Oshawa, St. aerator, spinner style topdresser, A: Butch Cassidy and the George’s and Don Valley GC greens roller and moisture meter Sundance Kid superintendent. The golf course was the only private club in the area and was quite good, but needed some refinements. His acumen for conditioning attracted many new members. Gall laments that he wishes he, “would have had a clause in my contract for new membership incentives, as they went from 280 to 600 members during my tenure.” During the regular golf season, Gall over saw a long-term greens renovation project. The job was seasonal however, and so in the off season, Gall focused on his other passion - skiing. One September day in 1985, Gall recounts a day with temperatures in the high thirties. He was hosting some very important and special guests that day to come and see the course. Gall had applied for a position at Oshawa Golf and Country Club, and the selection committee wanted Entire construction team at St. Georges. Photo by Ian Andrew. to see each finalist’s property. The group was impressed enough to select him. After a first wet summer in Oshawa, labour and improve course conditioning. year he converted all 30 acres of fairways Gall managed to instigate a renovation of Additionally, he pushed a successful to a pure creeping bentgrass sward. In his the irrigation system from a single steel renovation of the 15th green and installed second season, his team worked hard to mainline with quick couplers and hoses, to the required drainage systems to enhance renovate the irrigation system to enhance a modernized system that helped reduce playability. the conditioning of the new bentgrass In 1990, Gall accepted the robust fairways. Gall fondly reminisces hosting challenge of superintendent at the many golf pros in the days leading up to prestigious St. George’s Golf and Country the Canadian Open. He recounts himself Club in the heart ofToronto. After only one and the members walking and discussing What You Need to Know Grass: Annual bluegrass & bentgrass Tees: Bentgrass "If my memory serves me correctly, I believe I had the pleasure Fairways: Bentgrass & annual bluegrass of teaching John to cut greens. His lines were always much Type of Greens: Native pushup straighter than mine ever were. He was the perfectionist on the Course Length: 7,027 yds course and my father fondly enjoyed John working at the course. Size of Property: 300 acres John knew members would be watching him and he never gave Size of Greens: 3 acres them any issue with his hire. He was simply the best!" Size of Tees: 3.5 acres - David Gourlay Jr. Size of Fairways: 30 acres Continued on page 12 ... green speeds of approximately 11 feet for their events and Cherry Hill, well known for their slick surfaces, did not want to regress from their typical 12-foot stimp. In the end, they came to an agreement and the event was scheduled. Gall’s biggest concern was that the drought of 2016 had left their roughs ravaged. So, the quick acting super decided to take matters into his own hands making supplemental applications of wetting agents and fertilizer to rejuvenate the thinned-out sward. Luckily, Mother Nature supplemented his plan and provided the necessary moisture to improve the process. Gall stated that having the course constantly in tournament ready condition helped make the transition to tour standards relatively simple. John has seen a lot of changes throughout his career, and recognizes that when he was golf with the many stars of the day. Another events led to Cherry Hill Club hosting younger, the profession of greens keeping star struck memory John shares is one of a a MacKenzie (PGA Tour Canada) event was not nearly as highly regarded. “No senior professional event when a weather with only six weeks’ notice. The devastating one knew who we (superintendents) really delay forced many pros to evacuate to the were.” he stated candidly in the interview.” wildfires in northern Alberta forced a delay maintenance facility and hang out with Gall claims that there was a change of tide, and relocation of the tournament. Based on John and his team. Later in his tenure, Gall when he overheard golfers talking about Cherry Hill’s previously outspoken interests was involved in a bunker renovation that conditioning and naming superintendents at in hosting events, they were granted the other clubs. When looking to the future, his restored much of the original character of Stanley Thompson’s original design. opportunity. There was a slight problem, advice to future superintendents is “When After leaving St. George’s, Gall had the however, when it came to managing course it is time to move on, choose small clubs if brief opportunity to consult on another playability. The Canadian Tour specifies available, don’t wait for the big name.” ■ bunker renovation at Scarboro Golf & Country Club. It wasn’t long after that project concluded, that John was ready for his next career challenge. Not "I asked John for a lesson on turfgrass. This included numerous surprisingly, Gall acquired the position of lessons in requirements, which led to lessons on growing superintendent at the Cherry Hill Club environments. It opened my eyes to the fact that golf in Ridgeway, Ontario where he had the distinct pleasure of managing yet another architecture is only half of my role. The other half was solving bunker renovation. The project had already problems on how to create courses that were sustainable. I been approved before his arrival, and concentrate as much on sustainability - probably more really - began his second day of work. Upon it’s completion, every bunker and 10 new than I do about golf design." tees had been constructed in just over nine months. The renovation ran from August to May and Gall admits the mild winter "There's no question that John's interest in the history of St. helped the project timeline. Gall claims that Cherry Hill is a wonderful property George's led to the full restoration of the bunkers. The committee that poses some unique challenges and allowed us to restore the 11th green as an example. They loved a few welcomed advantages. “With the what they saw and asked John and I to research and restore the lack of traffic (rounds total 15,000 per year), we don’t have the same concerns bunkers." about recovery from damage in the late - /an Andrew fall.” Last year, an unfortunate series of Modernizing Your Operation By Jason Van Buskirk, President/Founder, Turf Cloud, Inc. maintenance operation you walk into. Whether it’s multiple whiteboards Class A Golf Course Superintendent or a giant wall feature, the dry-erase notes, cloth eraser, and board spray are the centerpiece for most break rooms. It is easy enough to write tasks STARTING OUT down and erase them when they need to be changed but if we analyze t some point we have all used napkins, scorecards or loose sheets the time we take to write, erase, and track labour, we become immediately A of paper to jot down notes to setup our daily job board. For many aware that other tasks could have been completed during that time. Let’s circle back to our irrigation issue on hole #6. Common Solution: of us, despite our best planning, the day becomes a blur the minute we step onto the property and sometimes it starts before you even arrive. radio call to the shop, or a physical trip back in to change jobs around in You know the days I am talking about. Your job board is set, your order to focus on the immediate problem and time is ticking. Certainly, penmanship looks fantastic and the morning begins peacefully with technology isn’t going to fix the irrigation issue but having access to a typical morning rounds. When suddenly the radio crackles and you digital job board can improve efficiencies and productivity by logging hear, “Radio 1, come in,” says the caller sounding like the irrigation on to the board from a smart device. This will cut down on drive time, tech. You respond back with, “Go ahead!” willing his response to be writing time and best of all it will automatically shift labour investments. good news. It’s not. “Um yeah, we have a mainline blowout in the Let’s be honest, tracking labour is almost as important as writing middle of #6.” And just like that, your plans for the morning have down what your staff members need to do next. Embracing the use of come to a screeching halt and the rest of the day’s plans need to be technology allows us to leverage a digital job board to not only assign changed accordingly. labour from a remote location, but also track that assigned labour. That whiteboard in your shop can fill up pretty quickly with dry­ PLATFORM DECISIONS erase markups. Consequently, each day can become a grind of preparing Deciding to embrace a digital white board means that a few small new notes for the board and providing concise instructions to staff adjustments need to be made. The traditional white board retires its dry outlining what to do next. Sometimes plans need to be changed on the erase marker and a television, computer and specialized software will take fly and not even your excellent penmanship can make this better. its place. To start, you can setup a flat screen TV in the break room, THE POWERHOUSE locker room, or general shop. Adding a Chromebit and USB keyboard Fortunately, it’s 2017 and we live in a time where our world is teeming is the best solution to turn this TV into a computer running the chrome with technology that lives in the palm of our hands. We even have operating system (Chrome OS). Once logged into Chrome OS on your watches updating us with the latest sports scores, important emails, phone TV, you can access the internet via the Google Chrome browser and tap calls, or text messages. To top it off, just when you think our tech giants into multiple cloud services equipped with digital job board apps. have come out with the best advancements, the next month something Most recently, Google Drive has been a fan favorite in the turf industry. better is released. We live in a world of productivity and efficiency and While Google Drive is awesome, it takes quite a bit of spreadsheet our smart devices can help to keep daily operations running smoothly at engineering to automatically submit data logged. Ifyou’re looking for just such a fast pace. Some individuals may be apprehensive allowing smart a plain spreadsheet job board, this should be your choice. Google Drive devices to organize their processes but, it’s important to understand that doesn ’t cost anything except a small fee for extra cloud storage (only if leveraging technology in your turf operation means communication can needed). Another paid service is the Turf Cloud Turf Dash™ platform. be delivered and updated in a matter of seconds, most times with just This platform is cloud-based and mobile responsive, allowing you to the touch of a finger. Whether you’re interested in writing, speaking on quickly and easily edit, add, and change jobs. Turf Dash™ also allows video, updating social media, analyzing data, taking pictures, or updating for equipment repair tracking, agriculture planning, agenda management, your virtual whiteboard while performing morning rounds, your role as moisture and weather tracking. manager has become a whole lot different. While there are many programs and apps available to fit your specific needs and budget, it is important to understand how productivity and THE BOARD efficiency is improved with a litde help from technology. If you have an Having a solid grasp of the digital world in addition to business internet connection, anything is possible when employing cloud based acumen has become increasingly important and turf managers have services in your shop. Technology is here to stay and it’s changing the more technology at their fingertips than ever before. That whiteboard overall environment around how turf managers not only manage, but we discussed earlier is the core communication tool in just about every conduct business daily! ■ Assistants Tournament Recap First place team with a score of-16 was (L-R) Gerry Fox (Dalewood GC), (L-R) Ken Tilt, Assistant Superintendent, Trafalgar G&CCpresents plaques Ben Collins (Glen Cedars GC), Shaemos Campbell (Pheasant Run GC), to Ray Dlugokecki, Superintendent and Ryan Judd, Assistant Superintendent Rob Lewis (Deer Creek Golf& Banquet Facility). Trophy presented by (R) of Springfield G&CCfor hosting Greg Brown, OGSA guest. By Sally Ross, GC) and Shaemos Campbell sponsored by Zander Sod. Tim we thank them all. OGSA Executive Manager (Pheasant Run GC). Second Lea from Toronto GC had the Master of Ceremonies place went to the team of Mike Longest Drive for the Men, and was Ken Tilt from Trafalgar his past September 21st, Bradley (Crosswinds G&CC), Lesley Thomas from Scarboro G&CC, who presented the T 92 golfers participated in the OGSA’s 15th Annual Derek Brooker (Duke Equip. Ltd), Paul Peterson (Legends C&CC won the Longest Drive, which was Ladies’ prizes and the host awards to both Ryan Judd and Ray Duke. Assistants Tournament at on the Niagara) and Craig sponsored by Plant Products. Special thanks go to Stephen Springfield Golf and Country McCutcheon (Turfgrass An additional surprise prize Hicks from Brantford G&CC Canada) with a score of -13 of a barbeque for “Closest to and Ken Tilt from Trafalgar Club. At -12 was the team of Alex the Case” on #1, was awarded G&CC, who worked on the The weather was exceptional O’Hara (Wyndance GC), to Dalton Rowbotham from acquisition of sponsorships and and certainly indicative of Delky Dozzi (Nobleton Lakes Mad River GC, courtesy of the purchase of prizes. the Indian Summer we have GC), Tyler Szela (St. Thomas BrettYoung. A more somber moment was enjoyed. Great participation, G&CC) and Zack Stevens The OGSA would like to the awarding of the winner’s support from sponsors and the (Summit G&CC). thank our Platinum Sponsor; trophy, which was renamed for excellent course conditions, Bayer, and Gold Sponsors; Turf this tournament as “The Paul There were some big attributable to Golf Course winners of the day; all prizes Care Products, and BrettYoung. Brown Memorial Trophy,” and Superintendent Ray Duke and were either $250.00 Pro Shop Our Silver Sponsors; G.C. was presented to the winning Assistant Superintendent Ryan Gift Cards, or prizes valued at Duke Equipment Ltd., team by Greg Brown, who Judd made this year’s event very $250.00. Closest to the Pin on Engage Agro, Vanden Bussche attended the tournament as the successful. #4 was Scott Littleton from Irrigation and Quali-Pro. This guest of the OGSA. Everyone The first-place team with Osprey Valley Golf Links. support provided all attendees in attendance appreciated a score of -16 was Rob Lewis The prize was sponsored by with a great prize from the prize the gesture that ensures Paul (Deer Creek Golf & Banquet Syngenta. Closest to the Pin table. Additional prizes donated Brown will remain in our Facility), Gerry Fox Dale wood on #14 was Greg Brown from for the draw from a variety of thoughts, especially at the GC, Ben Collins (Glen Cedars Essex G&CC. The prize was companies in attendance and Assistants Tournament. ■ “My Flowtronex station is so reliable, I can’t remember the last time I was in the pump house.” Dean Baker, Golf Course Superintendent Burlington Golf & Country Club Quality. Efficiency. Reliability. • Built with quality components • Designed to maximize water & energy efficiency • Real time integration with Toro central irrigation controls • Reliable after-sales installation & service offered exclusively in Ontario by FlowNet certified Pumps Plus • Retrofit packages available Call Turf Care today for information on specification packages & pricing: Sean Lavin, Golf Irrigation Manager Turf Care Products Canada 905-715-3985 | seanl@turfcare.ca TURF CARE Helping your business GROW. Products Canada Limited Eastern Canada’s FLOWTRONEX Distributor for More than 20 Years Join the conversation: @TurfCareProdCA Visit: turfcare.ca/flowtronex COMMUNICATING IN A CRISIS By Robert Thompson Winter was right—that evening the Deer Ridge’s GM, board of directors, the water rose to envelope practically all of membership, and even nearby clubs. “I Jason Winter knew something was the golf course. Golf pro, Rich Morel told was as proactive as I could be,” he explains. coming—he just wasn’t sure when or how a local newspaper of rapids forming on the “Everything fails when you become big it would be and on the day in question, 5th hole, and when morning light appeared emotional about the situation, when you the watershed that feeds the Grand River the following day, Deer Ridge was largely react badly to what is happening. I had to was having one of those “once in 100 think of a plan to deal with the course years” events. More than 100 mm of rain once the water receded, and how to let fell in two hours on a Friday evening everyone know what was going on.” just north of Deer Ridge Golf Club, the "Everything fails when you become Winter, who has dealt with tornado course where Winter is superintendent. emotional about the situation, when events and a previous flood, has learned That much precipitation in a short first-hand that preparing for a crisis you react badly to what is happening. amount of time can’t be ignored, and communication plan was a key facet of Winter was well aware that Deer Ridge, I had to think of a plan to deal with the recovery and calls himself “a bit of a a private course just north of Highway disaster management specialist.” It isn’t the course once the water receded, 401 in Kitchener, would feel some of the a title he is thrilled to have, but it does ramifications of the rainfall. and how to let everyone know what show the importance of being prepared Winter reached out to the club’s general was going on." when something unexpected hits. “I manager, Tom Schellenberg, to say Deer think supers are a resourceful group,” Ridge needed to be prepared. “We started says Winter, “but you need to consider thinking about how to communicate with an emergency action plan, and effective the membership right away,” says Winter. “I lost underneath the Grand River. On two communication is a part of that. You never mean I was talking to Tom about it before holes, the water stretched to the top of the know what the emergency is going to be, anything happened at the golf course. I flagsticks. but you can plan how you’ll deal with it once wanted him to know something could While the water was rising, Winter it arises.” happen and we should expect it.” was already communicating with the Increasingly superintendents need to be ahead of the curve when it comes to communicating a golf course emergency, and there are a number of stakeholders that must be considered. That means every superintendent should have a crisis communications plan that encompasses members, management, staff, and others who might become involved in the recovery process. MANAGEMENT One of the most immediate concerns for superintendents is connecting with the key members of the management team so they can deal with any matters—insurance claims, budgetary issues—that might arise as part of the emergency. In Winter’s experience, connecting with club leadership early and often is essential. “The board is the voice for the club, so staying in touch with them is key,” he says. “They are going to use their experience to help guide the club through the situation, and you have to keep them informed.” In his instance, Winter met with Schellenberg, the club’s GM, on a daily basis during the flood, keeping him up to speed on the situation, and the progress. “There were a lot of issues to consider,” he says, “from insurance claims to dealing with the long-term fallout from the flood.” While Winter was dealing with trying to restore the golf course, Schellenberg was able to focus on the other issues that needed Weston Golf& Country Club, Summer 2013. Photos courtesy ofRob Ackermann. attention. Superintendent Rob Ackermann has also managing member expectations. He also some duct tape on the bumper and get it faced a series of serious issues at Weston posted photos of damage so members back out there, at least for the time being?” Golf Club, ranging from a chemical could see the course’s problems firsthand. asks Winter. “That’s what you’ve got to application that damaged the club’s “Nothing beats that personal connection, communicate.” greens in 2010 to a flood that ravaged the but a picture tells a thousand words,” Willie Park Jr. design three years later. In Ackermann says. OTHER INVOLVED PARTIES every instance, Ackermann says that Part of any effective communications plan personally connecting with as many is being able to get the word out when board members as possible, providing help is needed. Superintendent Ian an honest and clear assessment of the McQueen was well aware of this when "You need to consider an emergency a flood hit Islington as he drove home in situation is the key to not only getting the situation under control, but also to action plan, and effective communica ­ July, 2013. By the time he arrived back to moving forward. the club, the creek that runs through the tion is a part of that. You never know Stanley Thompson-design had jumped “You want to speak in plain English, be clear, and take them on a personal what the emergency is going to be, its banks, and was flowing through holes tour of the course,” says Ackermann. on the back nine. but you can plan how you'll deal with “Boards want face-to-face interaction, McQueen recognized he had to react and seeing things up close really lets it once it arises." quickly. He knew all too well that if them know what’s going on.” numerous courses were damaged, he’d be waiting in line for the necessary MEMBERS resources to start his course’s recovery. Ackermann’s strategy was to conduct tours Often times dealing with members in That meant reaching out to the conservation of Weston when the club faced significant communications comes down to managing authority immediately to let them know crisis. He believes that personal interaction, expectations, says Winter. “I liken it to a what had occurred, and connecting with honest and open communication about NASCAR—you know you’re going to hit construction companies to deal with course the issue and the solutions are critical to the wall at some point, but can you just put Continued on page 18 ... Nearby superintendants assist with recovery. issues. The latter was key, says McQueen, Andrew, about the damage, recognizing his “We were losing revenue because the course because other clubs faced similar issues and time would likely disappear quickly as well. was closed and the sooner we could reopen it, golf construction companies quickly had all McQueen recommends having a checklist the better off we’d be,” McQueen said. the work they could handle. McQueen also of people you need to connect with should a For Winter, reaching out to other connected with the club’s golf architect, Ian disaster on the course occur. superintendents in the area, including Mark Piccolo at nearby Galt Country Club was a major part of his crisis management strategy. Winter figured Piccolo would have Crisis Checklist: some sense of how to handle the flood given -Plan ahead. the fact Galt is partially built on a flood plain. And when Winter recognized that -Create effective recovery strategies for different types of crisis. much of the disaster recovery facing Deer -Brainstorm best and worst case scenarios. Ridge was a cleanup effort, he reached out to other nearby superintendents, including Make - a list of management and other key stakeholders who will those at clubs like Whistle Bear for help. In need to be kept informed during the event. Prioritize the list. all, he gathered more than 100 members of local greens crews and members of the club -Assign communication roles during a crisis. to assist in cleaning up Deer Ridge. - Establish how you will communicate with your membership. “This is a small fraternity of guys, and they’ll help you out,” says Winter. “They -Be open and communicate often. know they could be next and I’d help them.” - Develop strategies to notify, reassure and motivate DON'T FORGET ABOUT YOUR TEAM employees. Both Ackermann and McQueen say Build - a contact list of people you might need to help that a crucial part of an effective crisis communication plan is dealing directly you with recovery. with the greens’ staff at the club, letting -Stay calm and keep your emotions at bay. them know the situation, and what they can expect. Islington Golf Club, Summer 2013. Photos courtesy ofIan McQueen “You have staff that are suddenly going CONCLUSION to be turning 12-hour workdays into Weston’s Ackermann believes that you ATTENTION! 24 hour days,” Ackermann says. “You can’t wait until an emergency to start a crisis can let them know what’s going on in a communications plan. It should evolve out of variety of ways, and then once you’re into the superintendent’s weekly communication IPM Certified the situation, you can use social media strategy for both members and management, Agents to notify, motivate and tell them about whether that is through social media, or in successes." McQueen agrees.“You’re going e-blasts and club magazines. to be asking a lot of your staff, and they “If you’re starting your communications are important to fixing the problem,” he plan when an emergency happens you’re Get your says. “You know they are worried initially. already too late,” he says. “You need to recertification credits They don’t know if the course is going to establish a personal connection with your be closed for a long time or whether they board and members. If you wait until ON-LINE with even have a job. You need to communicate something happens to do that, you might find yourself out of a job.” to reassure them.” As McQueen says, every superintendent P.D. Solutions Ackermann says a component of recognizes that a crisis will occur—it just dealing with any situation is to have a close connection with the club’s pro. Golf isn’t clear when. ★ Now offering ★ “You know, something is going to pros are often the staff that will interact MORE Courses! with members and take the brunt of any happen,” he says. “And while you’re always pushback. You need the pros to be your trying to minimize problems, you always need to be looking forward. Being clear and spokesperson for what’s going on at the concise in your communication is a key part Visit: course. of that.” ■ “Our pro at the club is really closer to www.pdsolutions.ca the members than the greens staff,” says Veteran golfjournalist Robert Thompson is Ackermann. “You want the pro and all the or call Senior Writer at SCOREGolf a columnist 'with golf associates to be involved in getting an Global GolfPost, and television golf analystfor accurate message out to members.” Global News, from https://greatwithtalent.me 1-877-977-6774 Before They Go, Get the Know By Cam Shaw, Communications and Outreach to provide a testimonial which can be used troublesome employees who throw off the Coordinator, Guelph Turfgrass Institute, on the website (www.donaldaclub.com). data, but Steede says the anomalies are University of Guelph The process takes approximately one hour, easy to spot and disregard. SurveyMonkey and is performed on every single exiting is the tool Donalda uses for generating the here is a tendency amongst managers staff member, seasonal and fùll-time alike. input. The software collects information, T to look outward. Planning, delegating, “It is important to get representation from supervising, training and providing all our staff whether they are short-term or organizes it into useful statistics and returns it to HR for analysis. This comprehensive feedback are all part of the job at the top. long-term hires. Each employee has valuable format allows the HR team to gain valuable Yet, ask yourself, how do you get feedback information to give us, and if we do not tap insight into the property’s operations, but from staff regarding your effectiveness as into that resource, it becomes difficult for us also provides helpfùl feedback to their a leader? For the big boss, it can often be to keep our fingers on the pulse of the club’s management team. Each year, the feedback quite difficult to gauge the reality of the is shared with each manager during their staff’s culture. Employers are somewhat own annual performance evaluations. Yes removed from the employee experience and that’s right...at times managers, too, need a it can be tricky collecting honest, outspoken "Employees are much more helping hand to become better employees answers about your operation. In today’s themselves. According to Steede, “the forthright and outspoken challenging labour market, employers feedback is especially helpful for entry level should be doing everything in their power when they understand the managers who are new to their positions and to ensure their employees stay happy and the learning how to be effective in their roles.” information can't be operation is perceived as a desirable place of The exit interview data has been employment. Antoinette Steede, Manager traced back to them" instrumental in growing Donalda into a of Human Resources at the Donalda Club competitive employer. The program has in Toronto’s East end, claims the best way to allowed them to focus their resources on check the pulse of your operation is through what matters most to the demographics of a comprehensive exit interview strategy. operations.” says Steede. their target area. Transportation subsidies, Since 2007, when Donalda’s program was According to Donalda’s HR guru, the staff meals, benefits, golf privileges, annual initiated, Steede has performed every exit biggest hurdle in developing your program is bonus programs, increased parking, interview herself. In the early stages, the designing an atmosphere where the employee improved training packages and social interview was emailed out to team members will provide honest, useful feedback. Steede events are all initiatives that have been via an online survey, but poor return rates claims the key to accurate data collection forced Steede to re-evaluate the process. is the anonymous aspect of the process. Now, each employee takes the interview via “Employees are much more forthright survey on an on-site computer. The interview and outspoken when they understand the covers many bases beginning with an information can’t be traced back to them” anonymous performance evaluation on their says Steede. She goes on to explain that department as well as each of their managers. staff must also be made to feel the survey is Next, the employee fills out a questionnaire not about snitching, but rather helping the providing general feedback on their jobs. club become a better place of employment. Topics like wages, duties, communication, Steede suggests “When staff see we have staff meals, training, and safety issues are made changes based on their suggestions, covered here. At the end of the interview, it reinforces the success of the program.” there is an opportunity for the team member Admittedly, there can be disgruntled or JeffLockhart (R), Assistant Superintendent ofBurlington Golfand Country Club receivingfeedbackfromforeman Brad Babiarz during a routine informal discussion. implemented or improved based on is a good idea. pertinent feedback. “This all helps to create According to the GCSAA’s Capital a vibrant and warm environment that our "It is important to get Budget and Labour Survey as well as the staff want to be a part of year after year,” USGA Greens Section Record, 53% of representation from all our claims Steede. Donalda also goes the extra superintendents list labour to be their step during the exit interview process to staff whether they are top concern. Labour itself makes up 57% finalize all concluding details with the of an average golf course maintenance short-term or long-term hires. exiting employee. Upon completion of budget. With significant wage increases their survey, the HR department issues the Each employee has valuable on the horizon and tighter bottom lines, it individual’s final pay cheque and record of is becoming more important than ever for information to give us, and if employment. If the employee is in good golf course superintendents to focus their standing, they are asked to sign an offer we do not tap into that attention on the people on their teams and letter for the following season. The offer their culture. Exit interviews are a great resource, it becomes difficult letter is symbolic of Donalda’s commitment tool for determining the gross domestic to the staff, and in turn the staff’s loyalty to for us to keep our fingers happiness of one’s squad. Do you currently the club. on the pulse of the employ any methods of collecting feedback Steede is quick to recognize that amongst your team? Maybe exit interviews Donalda’s program may not work at club's operations." are worth a test run. After all, it could only other properties. She agrees the process take one small suggestion to make all the can be time consuming and not all clubs difference in the world. ■ are fortunate enough to have an HR department to carry them out. Discover what works best for your club or team and don’t be afraid to poke around to find out what others in your network are doing. Jeff Lockhart at Burlington Golf and Country Club suggests a great way to get feedback throughout the year is through frequent informal discussions. “I always make sure PARTNERS IN PREMIUM TURF PRODUCTS to take each employee, full-time or seasonal, Nutrition. Control Products. Amendments. aside to talk about their position and Seed. Surfactants. Hardware & Accessories. listen to what they have to say to me.” says Comprehensive Expertise. Lockhart. He also suggests giving staff an opportunity to voice their opinion openly nutrite.com oscturf.com during their annual performance evaluation 800.265.8865 519.886.0557 Mentorship in Motion By Kevin Kobzan, Assistant Superintendent, Donalda Club train a technician owe it to themselves and the industry to ensure that there are properly trained and knowledgeable technicians in hoosing a career is not always easy but once we decide which the business.” C path we want to take, we begin to work towards educating ourselves or start gaining practical field experience to build Wybenga was first introduced to turf management at the Oshawa Golf and Country Club as an apprentice, and has called Donalda our skills. Entering an industry or a role as a novice can be intimidating home since 1998. Here he assists in the guidance of others, most and as the demand for a top-notch product increases, more often recently Rob Abuszyniec, a former back shop employee with than not, we turn to those who came before us to help us develop no mechanical background, who accepted the assistant’s role. “I throughout our careers. had zero experience and I thought I was in over my head,” said Not only is becoming a mentee a key ingredient in the growth Abuszniec. “I have lived in an apartment building all of my life of an individual, but becoming a mentor offers an opportunity to and never even used a lawnmower prior to this.” pass on a lifetime of knowledge, leave behind a legacy, and help to Wybenga is looking forward to the opportunity to train a foster an industry that will produce the next generation of expert keen and green individual. During Abuszyniec’s first season he leaders. became familiar with maintining smaller pieces of equipment, the This especially holds true with equipment managers, a position operations of the fleet and, perhaps most importantly, reels. “If he that is a critical to the golf operation. Countless hours are spent wants people to take his advice as a mechanic he needs to know providing a fleet which is safe and performing in optimum what he is talking about,” quipped Wybenga. condition; and the demand for experienced people becomes more However, being a great mechanic doesn’t necessarily translate important to the success of the team and industry. into a successful career in a golf course setting; understanding the For Warren Wybenga, a highly regarded equipment manager at game of golf and club expectations are integral pieces to learn and Donalda Club, sharing his 27 years of wisdom is both satisfying accept. “You need to understand the turf stuff, how it relates and and rewarding. His goal is to spark interest in an occupation he what the purpose of it all is,” said Wybenga. loves. “What is the point of it all if I can’t pass on the knowledge Throughout the past two seasons, Abuszyniec’s confidence has I’ve acquired,” said Wybenga. “The clubs that have the ability to grown substantially, which has had a positive effect on the working LARGE TREE SALES AND RELOCATION Lucan Allin - ISA Certified Arborist ON-1926A Corrie Almack P.Ag. Operations Coordinator Cell: (519) 239-3247- Email: lallin@fastforest.ca Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 270 Shoemaker Street, Kitchener, ON N2E 3E1 Box 256, Carlisle, ON Cell: (416) 580-5152 www.fastforest.ca LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca Rob Abuszyniec (L) and Warren Wybenga posing around the toolbox they Wybenga (R) sharing some information with Abuszyniec on the operation frequent during the day. ofa Triflex mower. relationship between mentor and mentee. His progression with As Ernest Hemingway once wrote, “we are all apprentices in a handling staff and operating equipment has impressed the veteran craft where no one ever becomes a master.” In an ever-evolving turf equipment manager. Additionally the young apprentice stays industry, continuous learning will always be a part of professional busy in the shop and is aware of the department’s operations development and according to Wybenga, who knows firsthand allowing Wybenga to focus on other areas of his job. how rewarding mentorship can be, “we can thrive if we help each Wybenga’s expectations for Abuszyniec is to be confident in his other, nobody knows it all, nobody is that smart, and if they tell own abilities and have the tools necessary to run a fleet of his you that they are, then they’re lying.” ■ own. During his tutelage, no time line is set as all individuals have different learning curves. “My primary goal is to start and finish school, continue learning in the shop with Warren and then see what my options are,” said Abuszyniec. “At this point I am very interested in the equipment, but I would like to become a better welder and learn more of the electrical stuff.” And what’s Warren’s plan for Abuszyniec while he learns the theory behind the electrical, mechanical and hydraulic aspect of the profession? “We will take that knowledge and expand on it, and as his skill-set develops more and more, he’ll gain more independence,” said Wybenga. Warren continues to expose Abuszyniec to seminars and reinforce the importance of networking as a tool in his development. The two have attended several training and educational sessions together. “We found events like the OGSA lunch and learns very THERE AREN’T ANY helpful,” said Wybenga. “Even the time in a room with other technicians in the business is beneficial.” MULLIGANS IN BUSINESS CHOOSE GREENHORIZONS AND GET IT DONE RIGHT THE FIRST TIME. GRINDING Brush • Logs • Waste Wood 519-878-8918 HAMILTON: 905.389.1315 CAMBRIDGE: 519.653.7494 GreenhorizonsSod.com Van Roestel Contracting LTD 13227 Elginfield Rd., Lucan, ON N0M-210 OFF THE FAIRWAY material or garden centers where you could potentially negotiate a credit for your goods. BULBS They could be given or sold to members of your golf club to help supplement your flora and fauna budget or to just increase your members’ experience. In areas where you are typically planting annuals you could add summer bulbs such as dahlia, begonia or canna which instead of being thrown in the compost at the end of the season like typical annuals they get stored to be reused in the next season allowing to further your budget dollars for plant material. When planting bulbs one rule of thumb is that they don’t like wet feet, so don’t plant them where there is potential for standing water or in poorly drained soils. Prepare the planting bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 8 inches, which is typically the maximum depth for most bulb species, however, there are some species that only require a planting depth of 4 inches. A well drained, nutrient rich soil high in organic matter at a depth of at least 12 inches is the most suitable for growing most bulb species. And, add a fertilizer high in phosphorous to your planting holes. For spring flowering bulbs once the foliage dies back or matures in the late spring or early summer, the bulb is dormant. As the foliage dies back, the roots that nourish the bulbs also die back. With fall rains, the bulb comes out of summer dormancy and roots begin to grow again to provide the bulb nutrients and moisture. Once the flowers have completely faded you can trim the stem off, but it is imperative that you leave the foliage to die back naturally. The leaves create energy for the bulb to store for next year’s growth and bloom and cutting the leaves back too soon will result in poor he simplest way to enter the topic of are many, many amazing plants that grow growth and poor blooms the following year. T bulbs is to start with the basics. Spring from a bulb. Flowering bulbs, which are flowering bulbs are planted in the fall, grow planted individually and could be annuals, Once the spring bulbs enter dormancy, the time is right to dig up the bulbs if roots into winter, then sprout and bloom biennials, or perennials, produce a wide needed. Some bulbs benefit from digging to in the spring. These include favorites such variety of blooms and foliage. Bulbs work divide them as they reproduce underground as tulips, daffodils, hyacinth and many beautifully in flower beds or containers, and creating little bulblets which can take more. Summer flowering bulbs are also can be used to accent other plants or make energy away from the original bulb. If the known as tender bulbs, meaning they don't a stunning statement when used in mass choice is to dig bulbs, they should be stored typically survive cold or freezing ground plantings - meaning large groups of the in a well ventilated place and replanted temperatures; they're planted in the spring same variety. in the fall. Every five years daffodils and and flower throughout the summer. They One of the benefits of using spring crocus should be dug and replanted to include dahlias, gladiolas (depending on flowering bulbs is that they reproduce prevent overcrowding. The first sign of your climate), cannas, and calla lilies. underground, meaning you get more and overcrowding will be a decrease in the Spring flowering bulbs get the most more bulbs every year which can be used flower size, uneven bloom and uneven plant attention of all the bulbs, although there to trade with other gardeners for plant height. When this occurs, dig, spread bulbs out and replant immediately. bulb species and will all over-winter in the addition to existing beds. For the perennial Most summer flowering bulbs should ground. I have had success with all of these type summer blooming bulbs mentioned be dug and stored when the leaves on the in the Muskoka area, although we do get a above, let the foliage die back naturally plants turn yellow. Use a spading fork to healthy layer of insulating snow that helps before cutting them down, this usually lift the bulbs from the ground. Wash off to protect them; adding a layer of mulch occurs around the same time as the rest of any soil that clings to the bulbs, except your perennials when colder temperatures for bulbs that are stored in pots or with start to move in. Again, the bulbs need the the soil around them. Leave the soil on leaves to create and store energy in order begonia, canna, caladium and dahlia bulbs. to produce the growth and blooms for the Bulbs work beautifully in flower Store these bulbs in clumps on a slightly next season. A good practice, and one I use, moistened layer of peat moss or sawdust in beds or containers, and can be is to prune off any developing seed pods. a cool place. Wash and separate them just Allowing the plant to produce seeds takes used to accent other plants or before planting in the spring. Any bulbs that away much needed storable energy for are washed before winter storage should be make a stunning statement bloom and vegetative growth production spread out in a shaded place to dry. When for the following season. dry, store them away from sunlight in a I hope you start to consider the world of cool, dry basement, cellar, garage or shed bulbs and bulb species and the benefits and at 60° to 65°F. Avoid temperatures below over them in the fall in areas where you joys in gardening with them. ■ 50° or above 70°F. When preparing bulbs don’t get the snow load but get pretty cold for storage inspect them for disease and rot. temperatures will help. I was able to create Chris Cumming CLP, Not all summer flowering bulbs need to an entire cut flower garden from exactly the Horticulturist be pulled and stored for winter, there are species listed above and every few years if Email: many that will survive in the ground in you dig some up at the end of the season chriscumming@live.ca our climate. For example, Oriental Lilies, you will be amazed how many more have Cell: 705-644-3994 Asiatic Lilies, Crocosmia, Gladiola, Allium been produced underground ready to be (ornamental onion), and Iris, are all amazing transplanted to a new garden or used as an Braemar Building Systems CUSTOM DESIGN QUALITY BUILDINGS COMPETITIVE PRICES • Maintenance Buildings • Storage Facilities • Pump House • Half Way House • Washrooms For your FREE ESTIMATES call us at 1-800-215-1996 www.braemarbuildings.com LOOKING BACK Fifteen Years Ago Today Deborah Badger, OGSA staff. Dave Svab (R), 1st Gross Winner at the Alex McClumpha Memorial Tournament. Pelino Scenna, CGSA Superintendent of the Year. OGSA Secretary, Paul Scenna (L), presents host (L-R) Greg Seemann, Host GolfProfessional, Jeff Pro/Super Challenge Champions, Randy Booker Superintendent, Robert Ackermann (R), with a plaque. Alexander, OGSA Director and Scott Clay worth, (L) andJohn Kirkwood (R) with O.G.S.A. Host Superintendent of the Pro/Super Challenge. Director, JeffAlexander (centre). he Board of Directors in 2002 were as ON THE MOVE: TOURNAMENTS: T follows: Jim Flett, President, Muskoka Lakes G&CC, Mark Piccolo, Vice President, Jennifer Pendrith left Muskoka Lakes G&CC, as an Assistant, and became the The OGSA/GTI Spring Field Day was held at the Guelph Turfgrass Institute Galt CC, John Gravett, Past President, Superintendent at Kawartha G&CC. with Rob Witherspoon, Director of Granite GC, Rob Ackermann, Treasurer, Jeff Clark moved to GreyHawk GC, the GTI, welcoming everybody. In the Weston G&CC, Paul Scenna, Secretary, Sean Kelly moved to Banty’s Roost afternoon, a golf tournament was held at Donalda Club, Jeff Alexander, Parry Sound G&CC, Chris Altoff moved to Picton Victoria Park East GC, hosted by David G&CC, Randy Booker, Dundas Valley G&CC, Chris Anderson moved to DeCorso. The low gross superintendent G&CC, Bob Burrows, Rosedale GC, Bay of Quinte G&CC, Cory Janzen was Thom Charters, Bayview G&CC, and Mike Courneya, QTC Management, Sean moved to Westmount G&CC, low net superintendent was Jim Moore, DeSilva, Taboo Muskoka, Greg O’Heron, Sean Jessop moved to Espanola Puslinch Lake GC. Peterborough G&CC, and Jeff Stauffer, G&CC, and Peter Lucas moved to Editor, Credit Valley G&CC. The OGSA The Pro/Super Challenge was played Royal Oaks GC in Moncton, office staff of Dorothy Hills and Pat Thomas at Wooden Sticks GC hosted by Scott New Brunswick. welcomed Deb Badger as a new staff member. Clayworth. There was a 3 way tie for the AWARDS: Pelino Scenna, Burlington G&CC, was honoured by the CGSA as the Superintendent of the Year. MILESTONES: After 34 years of golf business, Dennis McCracken retired, and McCracken Golf Supplies was sold to Plant Products Inc. Dennis’s father, Bill, started the business in 1962 until his death in 1968 and then Dennis took over. Vince Gillis, Executive Director of the CGSA retired and was replaced by Chris Dew (L), accepts a chequefrom the OGSA on behalfofthe OTRFfrom OGSA President, Jim Flett. Ken Cousineau. EVENTS: The Annual Curling Day was held at the Club at North Halton, hosted by Dean Baker. The winning team consisted of Alex McLeod, Greig Barker, the Club at North Halton, Pat Greenman, Oakdale G&CC, and Jim Flett, Muskoka Lakes G&CC. Master’s Turf Supply held the 1st Annual 1st Low Net Winner at the Assistants Tournament, Ron Craig (L), of Turf Care Products presents Customer Appreciation Day fishing trip Jamie Goodrow (R), Hamilton G&CC. Bruce Burger, with the George Darou Trophy. at Lake Erie, and was hosted by Everett Nieuwkoop. Mike Creed, Wildewood GC, The 57th Alex McClumpha Memorial brought in the biggest fish, and close behind Tournament was held at Weston G&CC were Dave Tascone, Granite Ridge GC, in October, hosted by Robert Ackermann. and Charles Ashley, Norfolk G&CC. Ron Craig, of Turf Care Products, presented Bruce Burger with the George Darou Trophy for low superintendent over 50. The IN MEMORY: first low gross superintendent winner was George Garner, Superintendent at Dave Svab (79), Victoria Park West GC, Glendale G&CC, George Beck, a retired and the second low superintendent winner equipment salesman for F. Manely and Sons, was Bruce Burger (80), Lakeview GC. who sold Toro Equipment and Milorganite, Scott White (L), Donalda Club, congratulates 1st The first annual Assistants Tournament and Meryl (Curly) Endicott, previous Low Gross Winner at the Assistants Tournament, Owner/Superintendent of Richbrook GC was held in September at the Whirlpool Jamie Cooper, Prince Lee Acres. GC, in Niagara Falls. 1st low gross and Evergreen GC, passed away. ■ winner was Jason Cooper (77), Prince top spot and to break the tie there was a putt Lee Acres, and 1st low net winner was off at the 18th green. The winning teams Jamie Goodrow (65), Hamilton G&CC. Barry Endicott were: 1st, Randy Booker, Dundas Valley The Hugh Kirkpatrick Bursary was Retired Golf Course G&CC, 2nd, Gary Gravett, Saugeen GC, started by the OGSA in conjunction Superintendent and 3rd, Kelly Barnet, Fox Glen GC. with the Kirkpatrick family to Brampton, Ontario The Ontario Turf Research Foundation recognize the leadership, commitment Tel: 905-846-1440 golf tournament was held at the Royal barry.endicott@gmail.com and accomplishments of Assistant Woodbine GC, hosted by Robert Cowan. Superintendent Members of the OGSA. MEMBER MOMENTS 1: We gotta get these greens in shape Mum! I got the tools, you go get the staff. Leasha Schwab, Superintendent, Pheasant Run Golf Club. | 2: This is Crunchie. Mouser extraordinaire. Cat treat enthusiast. Professional daytime napper. Mark Prieur, Superintendent, Trafalgar Golf and Country Club. | 3: Large snapper on fairway. Jayson Griffiths, Superintendent, London Hunt Country Club | 4: Another reason to check for debris on greens before cutting. James Horvath, Assistant Superintendent, Richmond Hill Golf & Country Club | 5: What a little cutie. Leasha Schwab, Superintendent, Pheasant Run Golf Club. Our product offering is growing! Kevin Jensen Craig McCutcheon Stu Bradshaw Joey Losito South West/ N. Ontario Toronto West/Niagara Ottawa Valley Quebec South & East kevin.jensen@target-spedalty.com craig.mccutcheon@target-spedalty.com stu.bradshaw@target-specialty.com joseph.losito@target-specialty.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 chris.lecour@target-specialty.com perry.brazeau@target-specialty.com jason.macrae@target-specialty.com mark.scenna@target-specialty.com 705-444-9010 416-705-8006 514-712-8006 416-458-2396 TURF OR CONSEQUENCES Rounds Report By Doug Breen, Superintendent, GolfNorth Properties I was taken aback by the number of people, who operate golf courses for a living, who made snide remarks about how they “just played more golf this past summer than I have in 20 years. By couldn’t be away from work that much.” If we, who provide the I that I mean, I played more times than I had in the preceding 20 years combined. That’s not hyperbole - that’s a mathematical fact. platform for the game, don’t see it as a valuable pursuit and worth the time that it takes - is it any wonder that we’re having trouble There are a couple of completely unrelated factors, which conspired selling it to the public at large? to allow this happen. Years ago, I was interviewed by Hugh Kirkpatrick, a legendary First, I’m trying not to die. Partially out of spite, because everyone superintendent from Westmount GC in Kitchener. I didn’t get the assumes that my wife will outlive me and the thought of her retiring job, but he became a mentor to me for years to come nonetheless. on my insurance cheque, when I paid 100% of the premiums, sort During that interview he asked me what my handicap was. I lied. of irritates me. And partially because I’m over 50 and I think I I told him that it was higher than it was because I thought that it saw the Grim Reaper drive past would make me seem like I was a me on the 401 the other day - it harder worker if I said that I didn’t was a bony old dude in a 1981 have time to play very often. His Lincoln Town Car - is that him? reaction caught me off guard. He So, in a vain attempt to stave off said that to properly understand my impending mortality, I started the needs of their clientele, I was going to the gym last Christmas. obligated to play the course often. Not trying to get down to my Furthermore, I had to play with high school playing weight - just the members on men’s night. And hoping to get to a weight that lastly, that I would be expected to doesn’t make everything hurt take lessons (if necessary) to get when I walk upstairs. It was down to a 15 handicap (average going fairly well too - but I hate for Ontario at the time). going to the gym more than a On this point, like countless millennial hates a five-day work others through the years, Hughie week. So, when I heard at a golf was 100% correct - even if it took conference that 18 holes on a cart me over two decades to realize it. is an equal caloric burn to 1 1/2 Last summer, I played in league hours in the gym (just 9 holes if events and member tournaments you walk) - well, that was the last - late nights and early mornings. time I darkened the gym door. With staff, members, public, The second reason is that I have friends, relatives, family - even by now become utterly irrelevant to myself. I rode, I walked, I carried the rest of the members of my my bag (once -1 said I’m over 50) family. Walker is at university - whatever the folks I got paired studying football, Aniela is an 18 year-old girl so she often forgets with were doing. I played from the senior tees, I played from the that I even exist, and Krista never really cared when I came home tips, and I even occasionally played up on the forward tees. I played anyway as long as the kids weren’t bugging her for a ride and the all 31 courses and I learned more about our courses, our clubhouses, horses had hay. As a result, when I announced that I was going our staff, and our players than I would have learned in 100 to stop going to the gym and play golf for exercise instead, my summers otherwise. During four hours on the course, customers daughter said, “You go to the gym?” and employees alike will tell you things that would never come out I needed a goal and long ago I gave up on the dream of a single in a boardroom, survey, or letter of complaint. When it came to digit handicap (or factor, or whatever I’m supposed to call it now), the properties themselves, I saw things that thrilled me, pleased so I decided that my goal would be to play all 31 GolfNorth me, surprised me, annoyed me, even disgusted me - and priorities courses before the season ended. It was interesting to see how for training, maintenance, and capital improvements would often people reacted to my proclamation that I was going to try to play be shuffled between nines. 31 rounds of golf. My daughter said, “GolfNorth has 31 courses?”, I still haven’t ground myself back down to a 15, and perhaps I and went back to texting (that reaction wasn’t surprising). The never will, but I never dreamed that I could derive so much pleasure troubling one was the assumption that anyone who was playing from doing something that makes me more effective at work, has that much golf, was obviously a poor husband / father / employee. actually made me healthier, and drove home a 25 year old lesson Even other superintendents would roll their eyes and say things from a great superintendent. But now it’s winter, and I’m back in like, “Must be nice to be semi-employed.” the gym, dreaming of spring. ■ PROTECTION ON ALL FRONTS Experience Greens-Grade Performance with Fairway Affordability Benefits include: ■ Fast penetration into leaf tissues and rainfast within 15 minutes ■ Rapid foliar and root uptake with xylem and translaminar movement ■ Increase in root strength, length and number, demonstrated in university research ■ Broad spectrum protection against major turf diseases including Dollar Spot, Snow Mold, Brown Patch and more fmcprosolutions.com ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. FMC, FMC logo and Disarm are trademarks of FMC Corporation or an affiliate. ©2017 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. PERFORMANCE YOU EXPECT In a Size you Didn’t. “The Reelmaster 3555-D has made us TORO REELMASTER 3555-0 approach more efficient by eliminating a dedicated mower. Its lightweight, compact PRODUCTIVITY. EFFICIENCY. SIMPLICITY design provides both labour and fuel savings while increasing productivity.” Dave Caldwell, Club Manager, Vespra Hills G.C. Contact your Local Turf Care Commercial Equipment Sales Rep to Order or Book a Demo: Andy Sandilands, Eastern Ontario - 416-347-5056 Bill Martel, GTA Golf - 416-606-6509 Derek Therrien, Ottawa - 613-290-7403 Chris Emerton, Northern Ontario - 905-715-6285 Steve Connors, Southwestern Ontario - 519-319-0539 Jason Sewell, Southwestern Ontario - 519-476-6548 Aaron Campbell, Southwestern Ontario & Niagara - 519-899-3023 Mike Rossi, GTA Sport Turf & Municipal - 905-715-6797 TURF CARE Helping your business GROW. Products Canada Limited Exclusive TORO Distributor for Ontario and Quebec Join the conversation: twitter @Gr8estShowOnTRF Visit: turfcare.ca/commercial-equipment