JUNE 2020 ON COURSE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS' ASSOCIATION Navigating the New Norm ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Golf Practice Facilities - A Tale of Two Clubs Managing Problematic Earthworms CANADA POST PUBLICATIONS MAIL PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT No. 40027105 Postmaster: Please return undeliverable copies to The OCSA, 328 Victoria Rd. S., Guelph, ON NIL OH2 CHANGE NOTHING. CHANGE EVERYTHING. Same morning coffee. Same meeting. Same team. Same inputs. What if we told you: you could change nothing, but change everything? That’s what our Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance seed offers. It’s just as easy to grow as conventional seed, but its drought tolerance is unmatched. TWCA-qualified seed is third-party proven to require 30 per cent less water, meaning even water-starved grass maintains its green covering. Reduce your reliance on irrigating and leave the watering to the sky. TWCA-qualified seed saves you time and labour, and BrettYoung is your only Class A Canadian partner offering this leading product. Contact your local BrettYoung rep to change everything today 1-800-665-5015 I brettyoung.ca/turf PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE "Right now we aren't even concerned about performance, we're concerned about how we keep our clubs open ... right now its about how we survive. Shawn Rhodes These are unsettling times, with the COVID-19 outbreak Editor continuing to challenge all of us - changing the way that we live and Courtney White how we work. members@ogsa.ca The effects of this global pandemic have already taken a significant toll on our industry. Golf courses were included in the provinces Publisher mandatory closure of non-essential workplaces on March 17th, but By Tim Muys, essential property maintenance on the grounds has been allowed, Diane Davey OGSA President. albeit with strict limitations which include social distancing, hand diane@blenheim.ca washing, cleaning of equipment, etc. The pressure put on superintendents to maintain courses at a basic level of conditioning has Advertising & Administrative Manager been immense, as we all struggle to determine what is essential and how much we can afford Diane Davey to do with our limited budget and staffing. diane@blenheim.ca There is also the property security issue for some, as the public tries to use some golf Tel: 289-337-4305 courses for exercise or dog walking. Not to mention the extra stress of ensuring that enough precautions are in place for our scaled-down teams - worrying about what equipment will be used by which employees, putting up disinfecting stations, making sure washrooms and lunch Production & Design rooms in our maintenance buildings can be accessed with proper social distancing and kept Patrick Kilborn sanitized, etc. And of course we all have to think about what will happen if any of our staff patrick@blenheim.ca members (or ourselves) become sick. Shawn Rhodes has made it his life’s work to study teams who found ways to survive and thrive in the most challenging and dangerous environments on the planet. He is an international expert on how the best teams pivot when change enters their plans, Shawn is a ONCourse is published four times a year former war correspondent and author of the book “Pivot Point: Turn On A Dime Without (November / March / June / August) Sacrificing Results.” by Blenheim INK for: The OGSA invited Shawn Rhodes to address the effects of this current crisis on our industry. The free webinar for our members took place on the Zoom platform and was held on May 7,2020. Shawn told his OGSA audience that COVID-19 has shown us how unprepared many of our courses and clubs were for crisis and/or change. He pointed out that superintendents are now responsible not just for maintaining the grounds, but also for the lives of staff and members. He urged us all to think about what we can control in the midst of this pandemic, encouraging each of us to think about what is essential right now in order to figure out how to use our limited Ontario Golf Superintendents' resources in the best way to get (and keep) our courses open. Association I would urge all of you who did not get a chance to tune into the webinar with Shawn Rhodes, Sally Ross, Executive Manager to watch the video of the talk which has been posted on the OGSA website. You will also Guelph Turfgrass Institute find our website a great place to review some industry specific COVID-19 resources, including information from the government of Ontario and re-opening considerations. We know that it 328 Victoria Road South is more important than ever to stay informed during these extraordinary times as the situation Guelph, ON N1L0H2 around COVID-19 continues to develop at an increasingly fast pace, and we will continue to Tel: 519-767-3341 keep our website current. Toll Free: 877-824-6472 I would also recommend reading Shawn Rhodes' book, “Pivot Point: Turn On A Dime Without Fax:519-766-1704 Sacrificing Results.” I did, and I found it helpfill, especially in this time of crisis. In a nutshell, here are some of his recommendations: Avoid panicking. Make a plan (for contingency and continuity) Email: manager@ogsa.ca and execute it to survive. Map out your current team, define roles and assign jobs. Take the time www.ogsa.ca to communicate the objective you’re all trying to reach together to get your organization through this - to your staff, your owners and your members or customers. Getting everyone on the same page will keep the group together as you navigate the changes that are upon us. I hope that by the time you read this message, golf courses have been allowed to open. In the meantime, I also hope that despite the stress of being in uncharted territory, that you have Published by Blenheim INK enjoyed the once in a lifetime experience of being able to cut fairways in record time, work all day Administration Office: without trying to stay away from golfers, and turning on sprinklers whenever you like. 503-5340 Lakeshore Road I would like to end my message with some good news. The IPM Council of Canada has Burlington, ON L7L7A8 reduced fees, and online audits have been postponed for 2020. And the best news of all - the public meeting requirement pursuant to Ontario Regulation 63/09 has been removed. www.blenheim.ca Take care of yourselves and each other. ■ TURFCARE Your exclusive Helping your business grow. Ventrac Dealer With over 30 commercial-grade attachments, Ventrac is your ONE TRACTOR SOLUTION for year round productivity. -Turf maintenance -Operate safely on steep slopes -Debris and snow removal -Clear thick brush, weeds & tall grass -Soil and site preparation Easily - manage out of reach areas -Material loading and moving Call your local Turf Care Sales Representative to book your free demo. Call: 1-800-561-TURF (8873) Learn more at: turfcare.ca ventrac.com Join the conversation: @Gr8estShowOnTRF @TurfCareProdCA Inside this Issue INDEX OF ADVERTISERS ADVANCED EQUIPMENT 15,27 www.advancedequipmentsales.ca ALMACK AGRONOMIC 13 SERVICES INC. THE ANDERSONS 7 www.andersonspro.com AQUATROLS 6 www.can.aquatrols.com BANNERMAN 11,19 www.sportsturfmagic.com BAYER 31 www.es.bayer.ca BRAEMAR BUILDING SYSTEMS 23 Features www.braemarbuildings.com 9 GC Highlight & Member Profile BRETTYOUNG 2 Tom Newton, Superintendent, www.brettyoung.ca Legends on the Niagara ONTARIO SEED COMPANY 17 www.oscturf.com 12 Navigating the New Norm RD. SOLUTIONS 25 16 Golf Practice Facilities - www.pdsolutions.ca A Tale of Two Clubs TARGET SPECIALTY PRODUCTS 29 www.target-specialty.com 20 Managing Problematic Earthworms TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA 4,32 Regular Contributors www.turfcare.ca 24 Looking Back ZANDER SOD CO. LIMITED 8 www.zandersod.com 28 Off the Fairway 30 Turf or Consequences ONCOURSE 2020 Departments Although every effort is made to check material for publication, the association is 3 President's Message not responsible for material published on behalf of its contributors. 7 Editorial Message All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole or part without 8 What's New the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. 26 Member Moments Although some trade names may be mentioned in articles contained Life in the Netherlands in this publication, no endorsement is intended or implied by the Ontario Golf Superintendents' Association. ON THE COVER ONCOURSE EDITORIAL COMMITTEE May 16, 2020, opening day at Devil's Paint­ Chris Lecour, Steve Rabski, Ryan Marangoni, OGSA is committed to serving its members, advancing their profession, and enriching brush. "Couldn't be happier with my crew, Kendra Kiss, Al Schwemler, Ryan L. Scott, the quality of golf and its environment. getting this property ready for today." Mike Pellerin, Sally Ross, Courtney White. Photo taken by Rob Wright, Superintendent. WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY NEED AND BUDGET With a full line of soil surfactant products backed up by sound science and independent research, we offer solutions for every need and budget. Contact your local Aquatrols distributor today or visit can.aquatrols.com for more information. Walter Dea Territory Manager wdea@aquatrols.com (514) 602-8410 EDITORIAL MESSAGE 2020 OGCM CONFERENCE Milestone 25 Year pring is a will dominate conversations for months Membership Awards S time for to come, some things haven’t changed. For growth and thisexample, worms. Worms don’t care about We would like to acknowledge seems to really our current social distancing challenges. the following members for their resonate this Did you know that worm casts, essentially longstanding support of the OGSA 2020 golf season. the fecal matter left behind by earthworms who were also recognized at the Compiled in that is deposited on the surfaces of greens, OGCMC in January, 2020 but this issue, are their names were missed on the list tees and fairways, can have a devastating that was included in the previous personal accounts By Courtney White, effect on the management and playability ONCourse issue, we apologize for OGSA. from members of these surfaces? this oversight. about how this If you’re ready for a quick coffee break industry has pulled together to maintain • Terry Magee, Assistant from all things COVID-19, and dreaming and open Ontario courses through a global Superintendent, Magna Golf Club crisis, with limited staff and budget, while about building a practice facility, or maybe navigating social distancing protocol. If waiting for the day you can travel abroad • Brent Stainton, Superintendent, this isn’t professional growth, I don’t know again - we’ve included two great renovation Peel Village Golf Course what is! In this issue, we’ve captured some stories to help inspire you, and Sean Van • David Svab, Superintendent, of the strategies members have employed Beurden has shared his experience working Silver Styx Golf Course for the season. Thanks to everyone who in the Netherlands for a year. shared their experiences and ideas; you As always, thanks to our volunteers for • Bill Thornton, Superintendent, certainly help to inspire those around you. brainstorming, researching, writing articles. Wildwood Golf Club Although COVID-19 and its impacts Your contributions are appreciated! ■ PLANT HEALTH BEGINS WITH SOIL HEALTH Foltec SG Minors is a proprietary combination of dry, soluble granules that contains selected secondary and minor elements. This product can be tank mixed with any of the Foltec SG formulas and is compatible with many commonly-used control products. Gen 3 represents the latest evolution of the Nutri DG product range. Gen 3 granules are completely homogenous, allowing for a consistent spread pattern. These granules also stand out against turf, making it easy to see where product has been applied, decreasing the possibility of over-application. For more information visit AndersonsPro.com WHAT'S NEW By Sally Ross, Executive Director, OGSA. Your Association in Action The OGSA has been working diligently bottom left of our home page. is happening today raises questions, we to keep members informed, provide We have also prepared a summary of know that the superintendent, assistant and education and information, and exercise items to consider when courses re-open and technician members are adept at sharing strong fiscal responsibilities. We are ensuring staffing increases. information with their peers. There is no that we follow Health Canada and provincial We approached GCSAA about education doubt that this virus has caused everyone to guidelines by requiring our staff to work points for those of you who were short for rethink their business models, re-consider from home, and limiting visits to the GTI the year. We wish to thank GCSAA for staffing requirements and scrutinize financial only to pick up essential paperwork and mail. making all Ontario IPM accredited webinars resources, we look forward to everyone The Board has met online three times that they have in their learning hub available finding a tolerable and executable “new since the last in-person meeting, which was to our members. normal,” that will allow both profitability for held in late February, and while some projects Recently we partnered with Shawn Rhodes clubs and safety for staff. have been tabled due to the pandemic, it has who presented a webinar on Surviving Crisis, created some new projects. and delivered this presentation to OGSA Our NAGA- Ontario representatives have members. The webinar will be made available been meeting to send correspondence and information to our provincial government. online for members who couldn’t attend the live Zoom presentation. Our thanks to WELCOME to Our New Members The OGSA sent letters to the premiers Shawn. office directly, with a request to allow While we started negotiations for superintendents to perform essential Conference 2020 and have a venue on hold, Blue Jay Irrigation Class E maintenance on their courses. we have not signed any contracts for that Our directors collaborated on a document event. Whether the event will be allowed Stuart Bradshaw Class A outlining changes to ON Reg. 63/09, and to happen, whether it is included in staff Monthill Golf & Country Club we were all gratified to announce that the budgets, or whether people will want to requisite public meeting has been removed attend any group gatherings, all remains to Robert Raike Class C from the regulation. This is something that be seen. Oakville Golf Club many directors over the past years had spent The sharing of information from many Tyler Daigle Class B a great deal of time on. This document is of our partners in the industry has been Nottawasaga Inn & Resort posted under the “Announcement” tab at the phenomenal, and while so much of what OGSA Award for #1 Kentucky Bluegrass | Low Mow | Extreme Fescue | Premium Bentgrass | Custom Grow Program | Large or small rolls (UofG) Turf Managers DELIVERING SUPERIOR SODAND QUALITY SERVICE Short Course Congratulations go out to Robert Bruce from Rosedale Golf Course. Robert had the Natural highest mark from all Ontario golf course employees attending the program. Robert Grass is COOLER! received a cash award of $1,300.00 Membership Directory Our printed directory has arrived with this ONCourse issue. Information was gathered SAFER! from online profiles, and all suppliers were contacted for their updates. It has been a BETTER! little more challenging to get responses from everyone of late, and we have had a lot of movement within our membership so as always we remind you that doing a search on the websites online search fonction will result zandersod.com 17525 Jane St, Kettleby, Ontario L7B 0J6 in the most up-to-date information. ■ 877-727-2100 GC HIGHLIGHTS MEMBER PROFILE Legends on the Niagara 9561 Niagara River Park­ way, Niagara Falls, ON (905) 295-1940 Member since 2004 www.niagaraparks.com tnewton@niagaraparks.com Tom Newton Senior Superintendent, Legends on the Niagara By Ryan Scott, Golf Course Superintendent, Oakville Golf Club. About the Course Photos courtesy of Tom Newton. Legends on the Niagara is a 45-hole golf facility, owned and operated by the Niagara hen I think of Tom Newton, the first Parks Commission. The facility consists of two championship 18-hole golf courses, Battlefield W thing that comes to mind is: genuine, humble, calm and a family man. If you’ve (designed by Doug Carrick) and Ussher's never met Tom, he stands out amongst the Creek (designed by Thomas McBroom). The crowd and at 6’6” the chances are, he’s the two architects worked together to design the tallest person in the room. 9-hole executive course (Chippawa Course) and the award winning, 360° Driving Range. The Tom is currently the senior superintendent property is situated on 1000 acres along the for Niagara Parks Golf, a position he Niagara River, just above Niagara Falls. assumed in 2012. In this role, Tom provides leadership and direction to the Niagara Parks Private, semi-private, public, GolfTeam. This includes the superintendent municipal, resort? Public (Provincial) of Legends-on-the-Niagara, Hartley Architect: Doug Carrick and Thomas McBroom Gibb, his assistant Paul Peterson and the formal and structured.” I can attest to this, Number of holes: Legends on the Niagara: 45, superintendent at Whirlpool Golf Club, as I had the pleasure of working with Tom Whirlpool Golf Course: 18, Andrew McQuillan. With the Niagara for a season. The NPC is very structured, and Oak Hall Par 3 Golf Course: 9 Parks Commission (NPC) being an agency policy and procedure driven. of the Government of Ontario, there are As a kid, Tom played AAA hockey for the Number rounds annually: 50-55,000 several high level tasks that Tom manages, Niagara Falls Flyers, and played competitively Practice Facility: Award winning 360° (26 Acre) from preparing and ensuring adherence to at Willodell Golf Club of Niagara where driving range, six Vi acre bentgrass tees, chipping budgets (operating and capital) to acting he would become a perennial junior club green and taylor made academy fitting centre as a liaison between his front line staff and champion. While trying to qualify for the golf Number of staff year round, seasonal: corporate. “I’m sure it is very similar to what Junior Championship at Port Colborne Golf Year Round - 5, Seasonal - 55 many of my colleagues deal with, just more and Country Club, he managed to shoot a 70 In the Hot Seat Q: Favourite Major? Q: Ultimate foursome: You and Q: Favourite golf course? A: Masters which three? A: St. Andrew’s A: Myself, my old man, my grandfather and my son Q: Best piece of turf equipment? Q: Favourite course designer? A: Toro 648 Aerator Q: Favourite meal? A: JackNicklaus A: Steak Q: Lowest round ever and where? A: 70 - Port Colborne Golf and Q: Favourite movie? Q: Favourite Band? Country Club A: Pulp Fiction A: Fleetwood Mac which included a hole-in-one. This was not his first; that happened when he was just 11 years old at the par 3, Oak Hall Golf Course, a property owned and managed by the NPC to this day. With Tom’s stature, it’s not hard to believe that a sport like basketball would come natural to him too. While competing in high school, his talents naturally drew outside attention. Tom was recruited and offered scholarships by several U.S. schools including the University of Niagara in Lewiston, NY. The program at the time was coached by the OGSA’s recent keynote speaker, Jack Armstrong. Tom decided to pass on the U.S. scholarships and play ball a little closer to home at McMaster University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree (BA) in Kinesiology, in 1996. During his tenure, the team would become returning contenders at the CIAU (now CIS) final eight every year in Halifax, NS. “Unfortunately, we got a bit Tom Newton and hisfamily. of a stigma associated with us as we made it to the final eight so many years in a row, never to win it... .we were the Buffalo Bills of the 1990’s.” In his senior year, he overcame superintendent, Angelo Toto encouraged that moniker leading the Mauraders to the Tom to join his team on the golf course. Tom Ontario (OUAA) Championship. would spend a few summers working with What You Need to Know Long before being recruited by Jack Angelo honing his turf managing skills, but Armstrong and making it to the final eight he was considering a career in teaching. He Predominant grass type: Creeping Bentgrass for McMaster, Tom had a job working in the spent a couple of summers away from the Predominant soil type: Property was capped back shop at Willodell Golf Club cleaning golf course to work at summer sports camps in a sandy/silt clubs and picking the range. It was here when for kids. He quickly realized that his true Types of greens: 46 USGA greens, 1 California Style green Course length: Battlefield Golf Course - 7309, "I remember when Tom worked in the back shop at the club Ussher's Creek Golf Course - 7180 (Willodell) he was a nice kid and when he wanted to make the Size of greens: 10 Acres transition to turf, I remembered that the most about him. It Size of tees: 100 Acres turned out he was also a hard worker and did a great job as my Size of fairways: 100 Acres Assistant. In this industry you want to be with nice people and Major Challenges: Providing acceptable playing conditions while maintaining financial self- Tom is just that." sufficiency in a very competitive and saturated - Angelo Toto, (Retired) Superintendent, market on a property with an excess Willodell Golf Club of Niagara of maintainable acreage. passion lies on the golf course. He went back to work for Angelo and became his assistant until the late 1990’s. Angelo encouraged him to take the Horticulture program at University of Guelph. Later, Tom would go to work for Bill Glashan at the Whirlpool Golf Club where he would be exposed to more structure, projects and opportunities. In 1999, the Niagara Parks Commission was about to embark on a massive construction project. Tom was chosen to be one of two assistant superintendents to help lead the grow-in of Legends on the Niagara, Battlefield, Ussher’s Creek and the Chippawa Course. Five years later Tom would be promoted to Golf Course Superintendent and tasked with preparing for the Battlefield course to host the 2004 BMO Financial Canadian Women’s Open. Tom recalls that it was easy to get staff buy in due to the fact that the entire team were in the loop two years in advance of the event with regards to course requirements. Snapping turtles hatched, 2019. “This created a buzz and excitement for the able to turn this into a positive as they above, I just always found it an excellent way team.” The biggest challenge leading up to appreciate individual skill set and allocate to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday the event, was maintaining and managing the appropriate work. “We have a great team the other 27 holes that were still open for life.” I believe this is the recipe for a long and of dedicated seasonal staff that return year- play to the highest level. “This would not successful career. ■ after-year which makes things well-situated have occurred if not for the leadership roles for us as property managers” Tom has learned and dedicated staff.” Tom also mentions over the years to recognize his staff’s unique that Jason Whalen, lead mechanic who has individualism, and that it has to be respected. been by Tom’s side since day one at Legends, “I feel that if your team is not being listened has been instrumental with the everyday to, they will not respect and listen to you as a operations of the facility. leader.” Well said Tom, and spot on! Clean Green In 2014, Legends-on-the-Niagara Through all the years managing such achieved Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary a massive property along with overseeing for Golf status, lead by their Environmental the Whirlpool Golf Club and the par 3 Technician, Gillian Biggar. This was a critical course, Oak Hall, Tom has never lost sight facet to the operation as it aligns itself with of what matters most to him, his family. His the mission of the NPC, which is to protect wife, Mary, and his two kids, Mya (16) and the natural and cultural heritage along the L J (15) have been his biggest supporters Niagara River. throughout his career. He has managed to For those unfamiliar with the NPC, it’s keep a balanced lifestyle by being involved a large operation with many different facets in coaching his kid’s basketball teams, Multi-Ject Aerator including attractions, nature trails, road maintaining his own country property Bannerman BA-400-S/S-H departments, greenhouse operations, and and taking those much-needed summer 1. Eliminate surface disturbance even has its own law enforcement division. vacations. These efforts have kept the family and core residue The NPC is like a small city within Niagara healthy and together. Tom and Mary started 2. Clean cut entry and exit of time Falls. One of the challenges with working their family summer vacation tradition before 3. Aerify & putt immediately after in such a large outfit is the NPC is under they had kids, taking adventures through 4. Revitalizes and encourages the collective bargaining agreement with places like Algonquin Park. Tom and the kids roots to growth OPSEU (Ontario Public Service Employees still try and get to the park every summer for Union) which dictates call backs and layoffs new adventures and much needed solitude. Call Bannerman today: for seasonal employees based on seniority. “The sound of my paddle when out on the 1-800-325-4871 Tom and his superintendents were however water, the peacefulness, the wind in the pines Navigating the New Norm By Courtney White, Member Services, OGSA & ONCourse Editor. tee times and out of their cars 20 minutes prior to their tee times. In the event of bad weather, people will be directed to their cars.” Social distancing is key, and in some cases, there is limited n May 14,2020 Premier Doug Ford announced that golf courses maintenance building space and available equipment which makes O are allowed to open their courses for the upcoming season after implementing safety protocols challenging. Leading up to the May previously noting, “We are allowing certain businesses to reopen under14th announcement, superintendent, Chris Chapman from Camelot strict guidelines because we are confident they can operate safely and C&CC shared, “Presently we have held off on new staff as we are still adapt to the current environment.” trying to bring back all returning staff. Typically we would be running This encouraging news comes after an unnerving spring, where a crew of 12 up until May 1 and gradually get up to 20 full time and non-essential business closures and long-term speculation seemed 12 part time staff. Through the spring we were a team of seven and to foreshadow a nonexistent season for golfers and lonely one for brought back three staff on May 4th. We will probably get to full superintendents. With Ford’s announcement, the industry was eager to staff numbers in a month (June) but might not be able to provide the tee offjust in time for Victoria Day weekend, but for superintendents, hours normally given during the normal summer due to the shop size topnotch disinfecting protocol, social distancing and eliminating shared and vehicle restrictions.” equipment are still the name of the game. Many superintendents have already begun staggering start times, As we move into this best-case situation (under the circumstance), breaks and lunches for employees and implemented morning meetings the OGSA recently posted a number of suggestions for superintendents to consider while navigating this new normal’. The complete list can via Whatsapp or other online meeting tools. Staff rooms and lunch be found on the OGSAs website, and includes ways to help distance staff, sterilize and share equipment, and prepare the course to create a Many superintendents will also: contactless golf experience. • Schedule shorter work days to limit exposure Removing course furnishings like traffic stakes, rakes, pins and ball to staff. washers, pins, limiting player access to common areas are an excellent start to ensuring player and staff safety. Some courses are getting creative when • Provide individual spray bottles for disinfectant it comes to players avoiding the pin. Christian Pilon, the superintendent with refill station available. at GreyHawk G&CC, explains, “We will use a homemade device that • Staff will use their personal vehicles to store will allow golfers to lift the ball from the hole without touching the pin personal belongings (no locker room use). or put their hand in the hole.” Washroom facilities on the course are also a concern and he adds that, “the on course washrooms will be open but • Prohibit punch clock use and assistants are we will not add the six portable washrooms that we normally provide for responsible for logging start/finish times. golfers. People will be allowed on the property 30 minutes prior to their Photo courtesy ofJayson Griffiths, The London Hunt Club. rooms are limited to one person entry at a time, and some buildings or rooms are off limits to all but one designated staff member. Other considerations superintendents can Superintendent, Jayson Griffiths, from the London Hunt Club has look at implementing include: assigned washrooms to individuals, implemented extensive cleaning • Waivers to be signed by staff to ensure they protocols, has limited the number of people in a room with social understand all new policies and protocols distancing measures, and shared equipment is cleaned and sprayed after each use. “All current staff plus new staff members are provided as it relates to social distancing/disinfection a 10L personalized protective equipment (PPE) bucket with a lid. procedures/stay home when ill, etc. Each bucket (seed pails or box store pails) is named and contains one • Policies drafted to reflect instructions for staff that box of nitrile gloves, PPE glasses, hearing protection plus a small hand have been in possible contact with someone who pump 1/3 gal psi pump spray bottle for quick personal sanitation of surfaces (bleach solution or disinfectant). Brown paper towel rolls are is ill/is being tested. provided. A second bucket for personal litter is advised. In addition • COVID-19 safety protocol signage posted in to the PPE bucket, each staff member is assigned their own cart along common areas. • Sanitization stations readily available throughout building. • Develop policy regarding impending inclement weather (staff stay home/where can they shelter safely). • Staff questioned/monitored daily for symptoms Corrie Almack P.Ag. or possible exposure. Almack Agronomic Services Inc. Tel: (905) 689-6174 • Staff to wear clean clothing daily. Box 256, Carlisle, ON Cell: (416) 580-5152 LOR 1H0 Email: c.almack@sympatico.ca • Eliminate meeting with outside visitors. Whitevale GC, team meeting. Photo taken by Blair Rennie. with tagged and named backpack blower and rake.” practices, nutrient applications, and pest prevention treatments And for those looking for more ideas, Work Place Safety and will be performed. Labor reductions will be the most impacted, Prevention Services also make a number of recommendations for as we anticipate a 25-30% reduction in staff for 2020.” Many facilities maintenance employees during the superintendents and their clubs have taken 2020 season, which can be found on their an all hands on deck approach to the season website. and have taken to twitter to thank colleagues Limiting player activity and services offered from other departments for their help will have an impact on revenues this year but Limiting player activity and preparing the course for opening day. to what extent, remains to be seen. Clubs are Many associate members have implemented services offered will have an finding great ways to meet the player's needs similar safety protocol and are working through while on the course. Pilon explains that at impact on revenues this year but their own budget restrictions and trying to find GreyHawk, “People will be allowed to use new ways to connect to their clients. For sales to what extent, remains the clubhouse washrooms and go in the golf manager, Mark Scenna, and his team at Target shop to get limited items, take out sandwiches to be seen. Clubs are finding Specialty Products, their company has seen a and drinks. We will offer a take-out menu 15% staff downsize (across North America) as that people will be able to order prior to, or great ways to meet the player's a result of a two to three month projection of during their rounds to take home during their needs while on the course. estimated revenue loss, resulting in one sales rounds.” And, at Listowel Golf Club, their rep on their team. “While the most obvious club house is offering food delivery to the first challenge of operating under current golf tee as player begin their round. restrictions is the impact on our projected Despite these resourceful work-arounds, revenues, the inability to easily meet with our superintendents across the province have been asked to reduce customers, with whom we have many close relationships and who budgets to help mitigate this expected dip. Al Schwemler, The count on our input is also an obstacle we re working to overcome.” Toronto Golf Club notes, “Budget adjustments have not been Paul Grotier, Belchim Canada, Sales and Account Manager finalized, but reductions will be substantial since revenues will be Professional Turf Products, shares this sentiment and is also impacted due to clubhouse closures. All necessary maintenance trying to find ways to overcome social distancing during this time. Advanced Equipment Sales SWEEPER VACS For your toughest clean-up jobs. Foursome at Listowel GC, Aidan French, Steve Boehm, Bill Lang, Eric Boehm social distancing before theirfirst tee off. Photo taken by Brenden Parsons. “The biggest challenge we face is communicating with end users. Cell phones and web conference calls help but it’s not the same as meeting customers at their courses. Golf course personnel are also stretched thin and extremely busy this spring which leaves little time for managers to meet with vendors; there definitely is an element of guilt when you reach out to a superintendent to book some time to discuss product material.” For both superintendents and associates, the intense focus on personal safety, the restricted budgets, operating with reduced staff, and for some, job insecurity, has an enormous impact on the human psyche. Manager, Gavin Carnegie with DLF Pickseed shares, “The biggest challenge has been finding balance and achieving a healthy mindset during the crisis for all the employees.” Whether you’re behind a desk in a makeshift home office or alone on the course, this sentiment is echoed by all. Thankfully, golf is back, and a day on the course and bustling activity can do wonders for everyone’s wellbeing. It’s been an impressive effort by everyone to see Ontario’s golf ADVANCED EQUIPMENT SALES season come to fruition this year. Rob Wright, the superintendent P.O. Box 818,21 Birch Street at Devil’s Pulpit Golf Association, says it best, “I couldn't be Seaforth ON N0K1W0 happier with my crew getting this property ready for today. Members and guests please enjoy responsibly and help take care Phone:519-527-2929 of your course. Stay well, keep distance, and swing easy.” Despite Email: advancedequipment@tcc.on.ca the obstacles, superintendents, associates, and their staff are www.advancedequipmentsales.ca eager to make the best of the season - even if we’re standing two metres apart. ■ Golf Practice Facilities A Tale of Two Clubs By Owen Russell, Superintendent, Markland Markland Wood Golf Club was to take the Long Range Committee Wood GC and Al Schwemler, Superintendent, members to visit other properties that had The Toronto GC. Reconstruction Project In 2015 the members at Markland Wood created good practice facilities in limited Photos provided by Markland Wood GC, and Golf Club began to entertain the idea spaces. Architect, Cam Tyers, took the The Toronto GC. to improve their practice facility which committee to meet with Dean Baker at consisted of a 5,500 sq. ft. green and two Burlington Golf Club, who had erected an ecent trends have shown that golf bunkers that were used for practice. The impressive small net structure, and Jason R courses are placing priority on green was located in a small area that was approximately 38,500 sq. ft. improving their practice facilities. There Crawford at Eagles Nest, to look at the Titleist fitting centre which was also very are numerous reasons why practicing is The club’s marketing director was impressive. Once the committee had an becoming more popular. consistently faced with the challenge of idea of what elements should be included This article looks at how Markland impressing prospective members with in the new practice facility, Tyers placed Wood Golf Club and The Toronto Golf the golf course, but the limited ability to them in a drawing over-laid on the existing Club approached their practice facility practice sent people to other clubs. small space and the plan was presented to restructuring. The research strategy with this project the membership. There was a great deal of support but some resistance as some people could not visualize fitting a new green, Some reasons why practicing is becoming more popular: a practice bunker, 11 hitting bays and a training building with the Trackman system • It is the quickest way to improve your game which makes playing into the 11,000 sq. ft. space. The members more enjoyable. voted to proceed with the project. • The health benefits of exercise and being outdoors. Markland Wood is located in a City of Toronto flood plain which means that the • Time constraints. TRCA, Toronto Urban Forestry, Toronto • Practice can be fun and challenging. Building Department, Toronto Planning & Development and City of Toronto Parks • The social benefits - practicing with friends or family. and Recreation all had to approve the • Practicing can be very affordable. project before the construction could begin. This project also required the services of a • Provides a platform for expanded teaching opportunities. Geotechnical engineer, Structural Engineer and the Golf Course Architect to obtain the Markland Wood GC, originalpractice area. Markland Wood GC, renovated practice facility. Markland Wood GC, inside the teaching academy. required permits. Work began at the end and hold ladies and junior clinics. Dr. Martin Hawtree, to develop a master plan of March, 2016 and was completed by the One of the most enjoyable conversations for the 9-hole Watson course and practice middle of June, 2016. The permit related had after the project was complete was with facility. Safety issues between the Watson costs were $85,000 and the construction a member who said, “I wasn’t in favour of course, practice facility, and surrounding and materials were $700,000. the project when it was presented, but I love homes required immediate attention and The practice facility was a great investment it and I am glad we built it.” Now, instead ultimately were the driving force behind the and has been a key factor to the club's of talking about the tuna fish at the halfway proposed reconstruction. Additionally, both growing population. Although the practice house, he talks about his improving Smash entities had not had a facelift in numerous space is small, it’s very useful because even Factor on the Trackman. years and playability and functionality did though you don’t get to see your ball travel not meet the club’s standards 250 yards, it is deep enough that golfers can The Toronto Golf Club The issues that needed to be addressed watch their ball carry after they hit it so they included: Reconstruction Project can still assess whether they hit it well or After the success of the Colt course • Errant balls from the existing practice poorly. The Trackman is also of great value renovation works in 2009/2010, the facility landing on adjacent Watson because even though golfers can only hit the club requested their consulting architect, fairways and greens. ball 100 feet, it registers all of their statistics, and records a video of each swing. It is free for the members to use and they can email their videos to themselves and watch them at a later time. It’s also worth noting that it only takes the attendant three minutes to walk the collector around to pick up all the balls. Since the completion of this project, Markland Wood members and their guests rave about the facility, and have found their PARTNERS IN PREMIUM TURF PRODUCTS favorite uses for it. Some members take Nutrition. Control Products. Amendments. advantage of the space before work, and Seed. Surfactants. Hardware & Accessories. some bring their grandkids in the evening Comprehensive Expertise. and have a glass of wine while the kids hit balls. Golf club suppliers use it for fitting nutrite.com oscturf.com days and the golf professionals give lessons 800.265.8865 519.886.0557 The Toronto GC original short game area. The Toronto GC, new short game area with range tee. • Errant shots from the Watson course required upgrading: irrigation system, course, associated irrigation installation, landing in adjacent properties, member information technology, septic systems, buildings, infrastructure, and parking areas. parking areas, and onto the practice potable water supply. The total budget for the project was $4.5 putting green. million, inclusive of all approved works, designs, on-site supervision, and site plan • The practice green did not have similar The new practice facility administration and fees. slopes/contours to any of the Colt or Watson greens. This allowed additional lands for has been very popular with expanding the size of the practice range, • The pitching fairway and greenside range tee, teaching tee, parking area and practice bunkers shared a common members and guests. It has building construction, and the enhancement green. of a short game practice area. become the "hub" or "pre Construction began in early August • Limited practice opportunities and space - the practice range had a - event" meeting place prior of 2015 and continued into the spring of maximum of 13 hitting stations, the 2016. Most of the practice facility and short game area was not reminiscent of to large golf outings, a boon Watson course construction was completed any Colt course features (bunker style, and re-grassed by the middle of November. short cut surrounds), the practice tee for the teaching professionals, To expedite the design and construction was only 1800 m2, the teaching tee was approvals, Christine Fraser of Hawtree and another popular social and Associates Ltd remained onsite for the 450 m2, and tees were comprised of perennial ryegrass. gathering spot for a BBQ or duration of the project. The practice facility had a soft opening on June 1,2016. • Parking was limited to 26 vehicles - private function. overflow parking was often on the grass near the short game area. Practice Facility Facts: • 3860 m2 bentgrass practice tee which can • Buildings were not functional for any accommodate 23 hitting stations. After numerous committee and town social gatherings and storage space was hall meetings, design changes, and a limited. • 1355 m2 bentgrass teaching tee. membership vote (in 2014), the club • The infrastructure on the Watson course approved embarking on completely • Range consisting of a centralized fairway and practice facility was outdated and rebuilding the practice facility, Watson and four back to back target greens. • Short game area comprised of putting • Two bay heated teaching academy green, bunker complex/green, chipping building with various teaching green and surrounds, 82-meter (90 yard) equipment - Trackman for ball flight pitching fairway/green complex with and club data, Swing Catalyst for video a variety of lies, and a fairway practice and pressure, Bull 3D software and bunker. Polhemus G4 six sensor wireless 3D for Seeding is Believing motion capture, and SAM PuttLab for • The entire practice facility and parking measuring how the putter moves. area is 48,488 m2. • Tee house - remote clubhouse with food • Virtually all architectural features, found and beverage capabilities, indoor and on the Colt and Watson course, have outdoor seating. been portrayed throughout the practice facility. • Parking for 45 vehicles. • Green, tee, and fairway turf types are • Ability to have approximately 65 golfers consistent with those found on the practicing simultaneously throughout all Watson and Colt courses (short cut facets of the new facility. Simple Dimple Seeder turf was propagated by aeration cores Bannerman B-SDS-4-H • Teaching clinics have been very popular from the Colt course and seeded with and in high demand. 1. Accurately dispenses bent bentgrass). grass & blue grass seed • Greens mix was produced onsite by The new practice facility has been very 2. Easy to calibrate-variable blending a 50/50 mixture of native sandy popular with members and guests. It has seeding rates soils and topdressing sand to mimic the become the “hub” or “pre - event” meeting 3. Break up ice on Greens greens mix on the Colt greens. place prior to large golf outings, a boon 4. Tow with any turf vehicle for the teaching professionals, and another • Ability to practice shots from rough height turf. popular social gathering spot for a BBQ or Call Bannerman today: private function. The entire project was a • 23 station “turf hound” artificial mat great long-term investment for The Toronto 1-800-325-4871 complex. Golf Club. ■ Managing Problematic Earthworms r By Chris Lecour, Target Specialty Products Unfortunately, the positive effects of some the 18th century. Native species were wiped with special thanks to Ben McGrawfor his earthworms have on the soil ecosystem out during the movement of glaciers during contribution to this article. come at a cost to golfers and turf managers. the last glacial period in North America. Photos provided by Ben McGraw. Worm casts, essentially the fecal matter left Since the retreat of the ice, forest ecosystems behind by earthworms that is deposited on have evolved and managed to get along the surfaces of greens, tees and fairways, can just fine without earthworms. Ontario’s here are approximately 1800 described have a devastating effect on the management T species of earthworms found on Earth and playability of these surfaces. They (though very likely many more undescribed create uneven and messy playing surfaces Invading Species Awareness Program states that of the 19 species confirmed in Ontario, 17 originated in Europe and two species). and reduce turf density, leaving damaged from the US. Without competition from turf vulnerable to weed infestations. With worms that are native to the region, invasive All species of earthworms a reduction in turf density comes a drop in species of worms have been allowed to play a role in the soil the turf’s photosynthetic capacity which flourish, in particular Lumbricus terrestris ecosystem: will have a negative influence on plant and Apporectodea spp. In forests, invasive health and its recuperative ability. The casts earthworms can have a devastating effect • Some consume both living will also inevitably build up on the rollers on the ecosystem, devouring leaf litter and and dead organic material and of mowers which can severely impact their transforming what was a rich organic forest produce casts which are rich height of cut. floor into bare soil. The forest floor is now Recently Ben McGraw, Associate prone to erosion and the natural habitat for in humus and macronutrients. Professor of Turfgrass Science at Penn animals, insects and native plants is now By consuming this organic State, spoke to attendees of the Ontario gone and nutrients stored in the understory material, they may aid in Golf Course Management Conference in for decades quickly disappear. reducing thatch. Niagara Falls about the damage earthworms • By burrowing through the cause and what turf managers can do to minimize their impact. McGraw presented soil, channels created by several key takeaways about earthworms earthworms improve soil and their behavior in the soil: aeration and drainage and reduce compaction. Problem species • Microbial activity in the soil is The damage caused by worm castings stimulated by worm activity on golf courses in Canada and the U.S. and some plant nutrients can are caused by species not native to North be made more available. America. Several non-native species were Ben McGraw, Ph.D., Associate Professor of brought over by European settlers as early as Turfgrass Science at Penn State. Cast in topdressing. Behaviours of European Not all earthworms are created equal Anecics A combination of soil moisture and Earthworms can be categorized into three groups based upon their temperature will usually see an increase behavior in the soil: in worm activity. Most earthworms avoid • Epigeic earthworms help breakdown organic matter and leaf droughty conditions and temperature litter and reside near and at the soil surface. This type is most extremes and will find relief deep in their vertical burrows during these periods. problematic in forests ecosystems. However, the Green Stinkworm Conversely, regular irrigation or rain events (Amynthas hupiensis) may cast within the interior of sand-based on greens, tees and fairways combined root systems during the summers in Kentucky-Ohio River with an abundant organic food source and Valley region. favourable temperatures in spring and fall • Endogeic worms live in the top 30cm of the soil profile. Their will mean an increase in surface activity tunnels are horizontal, and they live, eat and cast within the soil. and damage. Juvenile anecics are especially They feed on soil and leave their casts within the tunnels beneath voracious eaters. All of these factors combine the surface. to ensure that the fall is typically the time of year that fosters the greatest increase • Deep burrowing or Anecic earthworms create deep vertical burrows in worm activity, leading to an increase in or tunnels from the surface into the soil. Anecic worms will emerge casting and ultimately, potentially severe from the burrow at night to feed on leaf tissue. They will deposit turf damage. their casts on the surface as well. Casting issues are a growing problem on highly maintained turf areas, more It is the Anecic earthworms that cause the playing surface disruption so than they were 20 and 30 years ago. that frustrates turf managers and golfers alike. Insecticides can have a significant effect on earthworm populations in the soil. Older chemistries tended to have a very long residual effects are temporary and may last such type of organic fertilizer available for lasting residual effect on worm populations. up to four or more weeks. use in Ontario. As governments began phasing out many In recent years the use of organic There are cultural controls available of these older chemistries, they were fertilizers made from tea seed has proven to to reduce worm activity and casting on replaced with pesticides that were more be very effective in curtailing worm activity the surface, but results are often mixed at quickly broken down in the soil. The new best. Fairway topdressing became popular chemistries also tended to be more selective on golf courses in the 1990’s as a way of and less harmful to non-target organisms. creating a firmer playing surface and by Chlordane, for example degrades very extension, providing a less hospitable slowly in the environment and can remain There are cultural controls environment for worms. In fact, short in the soil for as long as twenty years after term results have indicated that fairways an application. It’s widely known that available to reduce worm topdressed with sand have actually shown chlordane was harmful to many non-target an increase in worm casts. To reduce organisms, including earthworms. The use activity and casting on the worm casts effectively, a course needs to of chlordane was completely phased out be committed to a long term topdressing surface, but results are in the mid 1990’s in both Canada and the program with multiple applications per United States. often mixed at best. year, over multiple years, which can be It is important to note that currently there very expensive and labour intensive. are no products registered for the control of Unfortunately, this commitment is still no earthworms in Canada. Some turf managers guarantee that the casting problem will have reported seeing less worm activity and disappear. casting on turf treated with some fungicides and surface casting. Tea seed contains Attempting to reduce pH by applying in the fall for late season dollar spot and saponins which disrupt the worms’ mucous acidifying fertilizers is another option. Lower fusarium control. Thiophanate-methyl, coating, forcing them out of the soil where earthworm populations have been observed which is registered in Canada for dollar they desiccate on the surface. During his in soils with a low pH, ideally around 5.0. spot, brown patch and microdochium patch presentation, McGraw indicated that a Acidifying fertilizers such as ammonium can have a negative effect on earthworm 43-46% suppression in casting can occur sulphate, ferrous sulphate, and elemental activity when incorporated into a golf following an application of a tea seed based sulphur can lower the pH of the soil. This course disease management program. These organic fertilizer. Early Bird 3-0-1 is one method is also not without its challenges: the shift in pH from applying fertilizer is temporary and cannot be achieved with a single application; heavier soils will buffer pH more easily than loamy soils, so more fertilizer is often required; the risk of turf burn is possible, especially when using elemental sulfur at higher rates, rates that in some cases may need to be used to be effective. And soil pH adjustment can have varying effects among earthworm species. Lumbricus terrestris appears to be much more tolerant of the reduction in pH than other invasive species. By adjusting the pH of the soil to reduce earthworms, perhaps a simple shift in the population from one problem species to another will be the end result. Some studies have looked at reducing the amount of organic matter by removing clippings as a way to reduce earthworm activity. Unfortunately, even after several years of clipping removal, there was no change in worm activity and casting damage. While there are some options available to deal with the problem of worm casting on playing surfaces, a viable solution may remain elusive for many golf courses with smaller budgets and limited manpower. Researchers continue to look for answers to control this turf pest that won’t disappear any time soon. ■ 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 Ten Years Ago Today THE 2010 OGSA BOARD OF DIRECTORS (L-R) Front row: Rob Gatto (sec), Chedoke GC, Chris Andrejicka (vice), Essex G&CC, JeffAlexander Pro Super winners Jeff Thomas and golfpro, (pres), Parry Sound G&CC, Randy Booker (past), Gtter Creek GC, Doug Breen (treas), Brookfield GC. Warren Thomas. Back row: John McLinden, Toronto Ladies GC of Toronto, Phil Scully, Granite GC, Stuart Leachman, Diamond in the Rough GC, Jarrod Barakett, J. Barakett & Associates, Mark Prieur, Trafalgar GC, Chad Vibert, Mad River GC. Not availablefor photo, Jennifer Pendrith, Kawartha G&CC. ON THE MOVE Lakes GC,was named the Ontario Director December 16 in a Toronto-area hospital at for the Canadian Golf Superintendents the age of 76. Sean DeSilva left Coppinwood GC and Association. Born in the Netherlands, Gordon emigrated went to Cedar Brae GC, Brad Bell went from Markland Wood GC to Lakeview GC, Congratulations went to Claus Zander of to Canada in his early twenties and Ken Emory went to the Ambassador GC Zander Sod who was appointed President attended the Ontario Agricultural College and John Taylor was the superintendent at of Turfgrass Producers International (TPI). (now the University of Guelph). He was Oakville GC. the superintendent at London Highland Congratulations went to Aldo Bortolon, Plant Products appointed Jason Ireton to Country Club, Northwood GC and finally superintendent and his course dog, Bronson General Manager and Graeme Calder is The Toronto Board of Trade Country Club. at Lookout Point Country Club in Fonthill. the new Technical Sales Representative. The Lebanon Turf Dog Days of Golf He became active with the OGSA and later calendar committee has chosen Bronson to helped found the CGSA. Gordon initiated appear in their 2011 calendar voted on at the The Greenmaster magazine of the CGSA ACHIEVEMENTS GCSAA Orlando conference in February. and served as its editor for five years. He OGSA member Neil Acton, CGCS, Deer also served as a director of GCSAA. Creek Golf and Country Estates, Ajax, was one of 23 GCSAA members honoured in IN MEMORIAM San Diego for 25 years of certification. Keith Stevenson passed away on TOURNAMENTS Andrew Hardy and the Pheasant Run GC December 20 in his 80th year. Keith was the The OGSA Pro/Super Challenge was became the 43rd golf course in Ontario to superintendent at Haliburton Highlands held at Otter Creek GC hosted by earn Certified Audubon Sanctuary status. before retiring. superintendent, Randy Booker. The Jim Flett, superintendent at Muskoka Gordon Witteveen passed away on winning team was from Cobble Beach Golf (L-R) Randy Booker, Otter Creek GC, Host of the Pro Super President's Day, Orr Lake GC Champs, lead by Jason Harris. Challenge, and OGSA director, Phil Scully. Barry Endicott Retired Golf Course Superintendent Brampton, Ontario Tel: 905-846-1440 barry.endicott@gmail.com ATTENTION! IPM Certified (L-R) Back Row Alan Beeney, Jim Flett, Jim Wyllie, Paul Dermott, Simon George, John Arends, Bruce Berger, Thom Charters, Barry Endicott, Chris Andrejicka, Stu Leachman, Jennifer Pendrith, Agents Doug Breen, Keith Bartlett. Front Row: William (Bill) Hynd, Robert Moote, Rob Ackermann, Pelino Scenna, Randy Booker, Paul White, Jeff Stauffer, Paul Scenna, JeffAlexander. Get your Links consisting of assistant, Jeff Thomas The 4th Annual Seniors Golf Tournament and golf pro, Warren Thomas. was held at Mono Hills GC, with hosts recertification credits The Presidents’ Day was held at Brampton Doug Suter and Alan Beeney. ON-LINE with G & CC hosted by Martin Kopp. The The McClumpha Memorial Tournament winning team was from Orr Lake GC led by Jason Harris. was held at Black Bear Ridge GC in Belleville, hosted by Bill Fach. Low gross P.D. Solutions The OGSA Summer Scramble was held honours went to Bill Gilkes, Scarboro GC and the George Darou Trophy was ★ Now offering ★ at Springfield G& CC in Guelph, hosted by superintendent, Ray Dlugokecki. The presented to David Stevens, Beaverbrook MORE Courses! winning team consisted of Jamie Spencer, GC by Ron Craig of Turf Care. Westminster Trails GC, Mark Durand, Ontario Seed, Mark Trudell, Maple Ridge Visit: GC and Scott Gardner, Echo Valley GC. EVENTS The OGSA Assistants Tournament was Ontario Cosmetic Pesticide Ban Act, www.pdsolutions.ca held at BraeBen GC in Mississauga hosted 2008 regulated that all golf courses in or call by Dan Magrin, superintendent and Ontario using pesticides are required to be assistant, Blake Sicard. The winning player accredited by an I PM body approved by 1-877-977-6774 was Greg Brown, assistant at Essex G&GC. the Director. ■ MEMBER MOMENTS Leven in Nederland: een jaar in het buitenland (LIFE IN THE NETHERLANDS: A YEAR ABROAD) By Sean Van Bearden, Assistant Superintendent, National Golf Club of success of a golf course, particularly one that does not have the use Canada. Photos taken by Sean Van Beurden. of synthetic pesticides. We had to truly understand the importance of plant health and learn how the timing of fertility and aeration, ’ve always known that the turf industry is a small tight-knit group, water management, and mowing/rolling frequency affected the I but over the past few years I have learned how small it truly is. In 2018, I wrote an article summarizing my week down at Shinnecock amount of disease pressure we saw. With the coastal climate of the Netherlands and the cool and wet winters, it’s particularly difficult Hills for the U.S. Open. Little did I know that the contacts I made to manage the Microdochium patch. Matching the nitrogen rates and the conversations I had there would lead me to a year abroad, with growth potential, eliminating dew as early and frequently as working in the Netherlands. In the classic,“! know a guy, who knows possible, and a couple heavy iron applications were a few of the a guy” fashion, fellow volunteer Stu Sheridan was able to connect secrets to success. me with Paul O’Donahue (Head Greenkeeper at The Dutch) who For the past several seasons the course has been trying to push then connected me with Tom Maddison (Head Greenkeeper at The for as much bentgrass into the greens, as we know that poa annua International Golf Club). With the European Tour’s KLM Open is often more susceptible to diseases, but with their climate and no heading to the private club located between the Schiphol Airport control products available poa is impossible to keep away. and the lovely city of Amsterdam, there was a clear interest on my As we moved closer to the tournament, the Netherlands had a part to vie for an open Assistant Greenkeeper position. After a few record-breaking heat wave that pushed the turf (and the staff) to conversations, a little bit of research on what it would take to move the limits. Despite having a lot of water surrounding the country, abroad, my wife and I decided that this was an opportunity that I water usage is monitored quite strictly, which adds to the challenge could not turn down. of keeping bent/poa greens and ryegrass fairways alive through a From a turf perspective, this was a unique opportunity as the 40 c heat wave. Netherlands was on the cusp of a complete synthetic pesticide ban After surviving the heat wave, we had a moment of relief when (implemented April, 2020). Therefore making the challenge of we got a sprinkle of rain on the Wednesday right before the hosting a European Tour event, without the use of pesticides, even tournament. This gave us the opportunity to shift some of our focus bigger. With 30% of the country built on reclaimed land, and an from keeping grass alive to polishing up the last final details before extremely high water table, the Netherlands has taken the strictest the tournament began. Anyone who has been involved with a large approach to pesticide usage in the EU. As we have recently been tournament knows that the volunteers are the most valuable asset of evaluating our pesticide usage here in Ontario, I thought it would be the week. We had an incredible team of volunteers coming in from beneficial to learn from a country with world class agriculture, how across Europe who not only helped us put together a high caliber to truly grow some grass. product, but made sure that what could have been an extremely The development of a sound agronomic plan is paramount to the stressful week, fun and memorable. Although the KLM Open may not be the premier tournament on the European Tour, with names such as Patrick Reed, Lee Westwood and the tournament winner, Sergio Garcia, the event had record setting attendances on all 4 days of the tournament, and the 100th KLM Open was considered quite the success. As much as this past year has been a great learning opportunity from a turf standpoint, there are many exciting but challenging aspects to moving abroad. The Dutch language certainly isn’t the easiest to learn, with some words that sounds almost identical to the English version and others that seem like they came from another planet. Fortunately, the majority of people that live in Amsterdam speak fluent English, and are more than accommodating to someone who struggles to pronounce words such as gezellig or gemeente. (If you look it up, it’s not how you would think to say it!) Although many hours were put into work leading up to the VC60 VERTI-CUTTER tournament, my wife and I certainly made time to take advantage of The VC60 is designed for use on golf travelling around Europe. The ability to travel to different countries course fairways, tees and all types of all within a couple hours flight is something that we obviously sport fields. Unique swing hitch allows operator to turn while using. New cannot do here, but makes living in Europe so interesting and "optional" double roller gauge system appealing. There were even a few occasions that I would hop onto is now available, which allows for 1.5" my bicycle (which in true Dutch fashion, I rode to work every day), spacing. Skid shoes are still available and head straight to the airport from work for a quick weekend trip. As I reflect on my time in the Netherlands, I realize that the year was much more than just a great career learning opportunity. Not ADVANCED EQUIPMENT SALES only did I create a whole new network of friends and colleagues, I 519-527-2929 was able to see more of the world than I had ever thought I would advancedequipment@tcc.on.ca have. Traveling to places such as Lisbon, Krakow, Dubrovnik and www.advancedequipmentsales.ca Bordeaux, and being able to experience so many different cultures was something that I will truly cherish and will not soon forget. ■ OFF THE FAIRWAY have been used for that reason for years and was very popular for getting colour in shaded in Disease areas. I was planting somewhere in the realm of 700 individual plants. One year the entire the mass had just started to die with no hope of saving them. It had completely wiped the Plant World entire bed out in the matter of a week or two. Upon further research, I found out that the cause was Downy mildew. I also discovered that, one - there is no cure, and two - you can no longer plant Impatiens in an area where the disease had been. This species of Impatiens has been one of the most popular bedding plants on the planet for a long time. From the producers stand point to all the way up the supply chain, this was major financial loss; one of the top selling products was being wiped from shelves and greenhouse n the plant world there are a countless it appears as a thin black coating on leaves production across the globe. I number of diseases that can stunt, deform, which can interfere with photosynthesis discolour, cause growths, and or kill the resulting in a further weakened plant. The demand for the product is still really high, as a result breeders have been working host plant. In my experience, the biggest You can avoid a lot of disease battle time if on developing resistant varieties. contributor to the occurrence of disease you step back and really look at your situation. Ever since the pesticide ban in Ontario is plant health, or lack thereof. I always gardeners have had to become much more There are situations where you can install stress about getting the growing conditions diligent with plant selection, site analysis, something in the absolute perfect spot for correct for the plants I choose or selecting tool cleaning and disposal of infected tissue that plant and give the plant all it requires for the right plant for the growing conditions to avoid the spread of disease. We’ve also had I’m working with. to become more inventive and creative with Essentially, installing a plant that requires nonchemical remedies. A book that I refer to full sun in an area with inadequate light levels often is, “The Organic Gardeners Handbook wont be killed by the lack of sun. It will be Plant diseases are caused of Natural Insect and Disease Control.” because of a disease that overcomes the plant Some things you can do to minimize some as a result of its poor health due to the lack by fungi, viruses, bacteria disease pressure culturally are select disease of light. Some plants are more susceptible resistant varieties, prune shrubs to allow air to disease than others, but it’s typically not and nematodes. They can flow through them and around surrounding the plant’s fault. It is almost entirely a result plants, do some selective pruning on trees of location, environmental conditions, soil be waterborne, soil borne, around your area to allow air flow and quality, water, fertility, etc. water at the base of plants, amend soils The most common diseases we see in with organic matter (compost) to encourage transmitted through air or the ornamental horticulture world are beneficial microbial life, and keep the garden powdery mildew, anthracnose, blights, galls, tidy. You should also avoid overcrowding, and transmitted by insects. root rot, leaf curl, leaf spot, bacterial spot, prolonged moisture on foliage. black spot, downy mildew, rust, verticillium This spring hasn’t been an easy one, wilt, fusarium wilt, botrytis, cankers, and and everybody will know someone who is damping off. Plant diseases are caused by impacted by health or economic issues as a fungi, viruses, bacteria and nematodes. They optimum health and a disease can still come result of COVID-19. As we ease back into can be waterborne, soil borne, transmitted and wipe them out. I will give an example. our new normal this season, wash your hands, through air or transmitted by insects. An Downy mildew had never been seen wash your tools, and may the rest of our interesting example of insect transmission before on Impatiens (Impatiens Walleriana) gardening season be disease free. ■ is about Aphids. Aphids are one of the until 2004 in the U.S., and by 2011 it had most common garden and greenhouse pests. spread to almost every continent. I had no Not only do they cause damage by sucking Chris Cumming CLP, sap from plants causing weakness but they idea it was a thing until around 2012. For Horticulturist secrete what is called honeydew. This sticky a number of years I was planting a large Email: chriscumming@live.ca honeydew supports the growth of a fungus mass of Impatiens in the perfect spot; it was Cell: 705-644-3994 called sooty mold. The sooty mold itself a shaded spot in a high traffic area where I doesn’t directly injure the plant, however wanted a lot of colour all season. Impatiens SPRING TURF RECOVERY POWERED BY NUTRIFENSETM “The spring of 2019 was the most challenging of my career. Ice caused extensive damage on over an acre of greens. The Turf Fuel Recovery Program exceeded my expectations and helped me open my greens soon­ er than I anticipated. I am so glad I trusted Turf Fuel prod­ ucts with my fertility during my recovery, and I am excited to use their products in a standard program.” - Ian Daniels, Superintendent, Teugega Country Club target-specialty.ca Craig McCutcheon Colin Hindle Joey Losito Chris Lecour Toronto West/ Niagara Ottawa & Eastern Ontario Quebec South & East Georgian Bay craig.mccutcheon@target-specialty.com colin.hindle@target-specialty.com joseph.losito@target-specialty.com chris.lecour@target-specialty.com 905-351-6544 613-314-9711 819-571-1677 705-444-9010 Perry Brazeau Jason MacRae Mark Scenna Toronto/ East Quebec North & West Sales Manager, Eastern Canada perry.brazeau@target-specialty.com jason.macrae@target-specialty.com mark.scenna@target-specialty.com 416-705-8006 514-712-8006 416-458-2396 TURF OR CONSEQUENCES The Spring of COVID-19 By Doug Breen, Superintendent, went to Queen’s Park with GolfNorth Properties. a common message, “We have only talked about what ’ve never been more proud of businesses are essential vs. I Ontario golf superintendents, than I was this spring. Actually, non- essential; now it’s time to talk about businesses that I'm proud of our entire industry. are safe vs. unsafe. Golf can It obviously wasn't what any be played (with additional of us were expecting, when protocols) in a manner we returned from our much which supports social deserved Christmas break. What distancing and safety.” As looked like a typical off season an aside, I must tip my hat of reel grinding, equipment to the cannabis lobby. To go repair (boy have those carts from a felony to an essential turned out to be important), service in just over a year is seasonal preparation, hiring, quite an accomplishment. I and dropping the odd dead ash have a buddy whose mom tree - was thrown into absolute grounded him for a week chaos by COVID-19. and cried for three days Some courses were ready to when she found a rattyjoint open on the weekend after St. in his jeans on laundry day Patricks Day, and it appeared - now she takes it every day. as if we would have one of the I’d also like to point out best springs in years. Some the role of social media in actually did open for a few days, all of this. Not the part before the Provincial Order mothballed our was a fraction of the worst case scenarios - about how you should inject Lysol or that early start. Suddenly we were all learning the thank goodness. COVID-19 is caused by 5G towers - the intricacies of layoffs, El, CERB, and dozens When we got the green light to ‘maintain useful part of the internet. I have often said of other programs. Ontario superintendents the courses with skeleton crews, I saw some that Facebook is too sugary and sweet, and had to become emotional support, things that really warmed my heart. There that Twitter is an angry cesspool - but both employment councillors, statesmen, and were clubhouse GM's cutting fairways. financial advisors - on top of usual 25 jobs Event planners took orders for takeout food. platforms were a valuable resource to share that we do every day. Golf Pros were helping to cut down trees. ideas, experiences, and failures from around Then we started watching the Doug Ford As courses got the word that we could start the golfing planet. Take for example, the show at 1:00 every day, and reading endless getting ready to open - the tables turned, myriad of ideas that were used to keep the articles about virology and statistical analysis and superintendents were seen installing ball from dropping too far into the cup. every night. And we worried. I heard from plexiglass in pro shops. Everyone sat down There were dozens, and we got to see them owners who didn’t know how they were with the endless lists of Best Management all - for free - in real time. going to make payroll, and the emotional Practices from all over the world, to try to It gives me hope, that people have been so upheaval of laying off a 20 year employee for come up with a set of protocols which would willing to work together, locally and around the first time. I heard from superintendents allow each course to re-open, and to re­ the world. Let’s not lose that when this all who were immunocompromised or taking open safely. On opening day (with 36 hours ends. Now that Ontario courses are as busy care of elderly parents, and also knew that the notice) - all hands were on deck to make sure as 1985, it would be pretty easy for everyone course owner had been paying staff salaries things went smoothly and safely - and we did to go back to our old silos. A year from now, out of their own pocket for months. Many it together. I truly hope that we'll be better when we’re jammed with two years worth have spouses or other family members in partners going forward, now that we’ve taken of weddings, and every company wants to the medical field. We could all see that our a walk in each other's boots. run a golf tournament again - I hope the industry was in trouble, and yet Italy was on When it came time to lobby the Provincial superintendent will still want to help out the news every night. Government (to try to get the golf industry on a busy Saturday morning, that the Golf Then came the first glimmers of hope. going, to get our staff back to work, and Pro will still want to hop on a mower once Kids seemed to handle the disease pretty to give some physical and mental relief to in a while, and that we’ll all remember that well. The hospitals in Ontario stood up to the general public) again, we were all in it in the Spring of COVID-19, we all got the rush. The curve flattened. The real data together. We Are Golf (formerly NAGA) through it together. ■ We’ll meet you there with flexible, broad-spectrum insect control When you need simplified, flexible insect management for a wide range of application windows, Bayer is ready with proven pest control solutions. Tetrino has recently been registered for turf in Canada, and is the only insecticide in the Canadian marketplace that controls white grubs, ABW, chinch bugs, bluegrass billbugs, cutworms and turf caterpillars with one product. es.bayer.ca Twitter @BayerGolfCA 1-888-283-6847 Science for a better life ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW LABEL DIRECTIONS. Bayer, the Bayer Cross and Tetrino are trademarks of Bayer. 69600-04/20 Your Best Source for Premium Pre-Owned Equipment Guaranteed Backed by the most experienced service and support team in the business! 90 + On Day PAYMENT terms Turf Care has been supplying golf courses with quality new DAY With every Toro Certified & pre-owned turf equipment, irrigation systems, golf cars, Premium Pre-Owned Purchase and parts since 1975. As your essential partner, our dedicated Warranty sales and mobile service team is here to support you. Enquire about our extensive inventory of premium reconditioned, low-hour, warrantied equipment. Logan Myers | Pre-Owned Sales | 905-751-4891 Kevin Ottman | Southwestern ON | 519-899-3023 Mike Giblin | Niagara & Western ON | 519-476-6548 Steve Conners | 519 Sales Manager | 519-319-0539 Bill Martel | GTA | 416-606-6509 Chris Emerton | Northern ON | 905-715-6285 Rob Eberle | Eastern ON | 416-347-5056 Derek Therrien | Ottawa | 613-290-7403 1-800-561-8873 | preowned@turfcare.ca | turfcare.ca TURFCARE @Gr8estShowOnTRF Helping your business grow. @TurfCareProdCA