"Green is Beautiful” Ontario Golf Superintendents Association 312, ETOBICOKE, ONTARIO M9C 4V3 TELEPHONE: 233-8388 MARCH 1985 JACKIE DERMOTT O.G.S.A. SECRETARY January 1974 — November 1984 ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 1984 PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT PAST PRESIDENT Hugh Kirkpatrick Barry Endicott Al Draper Westmount Golf & Country Club Caledon Golf Club Greenhills Country Club P.O. Box 221 3 Sutter Ave. R.R. No. 3 Kitchener, Ontario N2G 3Y6 Brampton, Ontario L6Z 1G1 Lambeth, Ontario NOL 1S0 Phone: Bus. (519) 744-1041 Phone: Bus. (416) 457-2949 Phone: Bus. (519) 652-3142 Home (519) 893-2119 Home (416) 846-1440 Home (519) 472-3227 DIRECTORS Robert Kennedy Neil Acton Bill Fach Garden City Golf Club P.O. Box 1342 Essex Golf & Country Club 37 Lincoln Ave. Penetanguishene, 7555 Matchette Road St. Catharines, Ontario L2P 2C7 Ontario LOK 1P0 Windsor, Ontario N9J 2S4 Phone: Bus. (416) 685-9976 Phone: Bus. (705) 526-9872 Phone: Bus. (519) 734-1251 Home (416) 935-2019 Home (705) 549-2323 Home (519) 734-6710 Gordon Nimmo Scott Dodson Thom Charters Sarnia Golf and Curling Club Chedoke Golf Club Islington Golf Club 500 Errol Rd. W. 563 Aberdeen Ave. 45 Riverbank Dr. P.O. Box 131 Sarnia, Ontario N7V 1X7 Hamilton, Ontario L8P 2S8 Islington, Ontario M9A 4X1 Phone: Bus. (519) 336-0667 Phone: Bus. (416) 529-9931 Phone: Bus. (416) 231-0925 Home (519) 332-1521 Home (416) 957-7729 Home (416) 231-0925 Shorty Jenkins Gord Witteveen Tom Simpson Bay of Qinte Golf Club Board of Trade Country Club Newcastle Golf Club P.O. Box 65 200 Clarence Street R.R. No. 2 Belleville, Ontario K8N 4Z9 Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 1B1 Newcastle, Ontario LOA 1H0 Phone: Bus. (613) 968-7404 Phone: Bus. (416) 851-1968 Phone: Bus. (416) 987-4851 Home (613) 392-9510 Home (416) 851-1968 Home (416) 987-4395 NEWSLETTER EDITOR Barry Endicott ASSISTANT EDITORS Ron Heesen Neil Acton EDITOR'S COMMENT PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE NEW DIRECTOR I have enjoyed being the editor of I am very honored to be your president "Green is Beautiful" over the past 3 years. this year. I hope I can maintain the high I feel very strongly that the newsletter is standards of my predecessor. a very important tool in communicating Neil to our members and the public. Our This is the time of year when we can newsletter is also a history book. Ac­ relax and take our holidays, however, Acton tivities that have occured in our associa­ most of us also use this time to attend tion would be lost over the years if they seminars, conferences or other functions were not recorded. where we can learn a little more about our profession. We can also update our Neil started working on golf courses at Our newsletter won one of the top ten the age of 12 at Borden Golf Clubs per­ best newlsetters awards in Washington immediate and long range plans. forming all forms of labour both on the at the CGSAA Conference in February. This award is to everyone's credit. We Nature has given us quite a winter this course as well as the pro shop and club have a very active and healthy association year. I know my course is covered with house. After graduating from Niagara made up of individuals who are dedi­ 4 inches of ice and 2 or 3 feet of snow. College, Department of Horticulture, he cated to their jobs as turf managers. It is All of this on top of unfrozen ground. I was employed as an assistant superinten­ so important we forward information to don't think any of us can be sure how dent by Bernie MacDonald at his Green our new editor so we can continue to be things will come out this spring, but I Acres Golf Center. He spent 7 years at recognized internationally. have tried to prepare myself and my club Green Acres prior to moving to Brooklea Neil Acton comes to the board with for the worst by informing the directors Golf and Country Club in 1980. He at­ enthusiasm. As editor, Neil will be bring­ of the situation. I guess the message that tended the Winter Short Course at the ing with him new ideas to the newsletter. I am trying to get across is that we have University of Guelph in 1974 and attained I would like tothankall individuals who to keep looking for knowledge and im­ certification status in 1984. His wife, prove our communication skills. Janet, is an X-ray Technologist and two helped with the newsletter and I know sons, aged 4 and 1, are frequent visitors Neil is hoping that they continue feeding I wish all our members a successful to the course. him information which is so vital in the Neil is taking over as newsletter editor year for 1985. success of "Green is Beautiful". ? of our association's newsletter "Green Is Barry Endicott Hugh Kirkpatrick Beautiful". NEW MEMBERS WlND/BAROMETER TABLE Barometer Wind Brian McCann (Reduced to Sea Level) Direction Character of Weather Indicated — Allandale Golf Club Class A 30.00 to 30.20, and steady westerly Fair, with slight changes in David Lauterbach temperature, for one to two days. 30.00 to 30.20, and rising rapidly westerly Fair, followed within two days by — Jim Morrison Ltd. Class E warmer and rain. 30.00 to 30.20, and falling rapidly south to east Warmer, and rain within 24 hours. David Barnes 30.20, or above, and falling rapidly south to east Warmer, and rain within 36 hours. 30.20, or above, and falling rapidly west to north Cold and clear, quickly followed by — St. Clair Parkway Golf Course warmerand rain. Class B 30.20, or above, and steady variable No early change. 30.00, or below, and falling slowly south to east Rain within 18hours that will Mike Post continue a day or two. 30.00, or below, and falling rapidly southeast to Rain, with high wind, followed — Strathroy Golf Club Class B northeast within two days by clearing, colder. 30.00, or below, and rising south to west Clearing and colder within Wayne Studds 12 hours. 29.80, or below, and falling rapidly southeast to Severe storm of wind and rain — Llewellyn Security Class E northeast imminent. In winter, snowor cold wave within 24 hours. David Sshnelefski 29.80, or below, and falling rapidly east to north Severe northeast gales and heavy rain or snow, followed in winter by cold wave. — Merry Hill Golf Club Class F 29.80, or below, and rising rapidly going to west Clearing and colder. Don McFaul Note: A barometer should be adjusted to show equivalent sea level pressure tor the altitude at — Glen Abbey Golf Club Class A which it is to be used. A change of 100 feet in elevation will cause a decrease of 1/10th inch in the reading. WEATHER IN REVIEW empty table cell Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. Average Daily Low Temperature 5.8⁰C -1.3⁰⁰C -3.7⁰C -11.4°C Average Daily High Temperature 15.3°C 7.5°C 3.8°C -4.5°C Mean Temperature 10.6°C 3.1°C 0°C -8°C Normal Temperature 9.0°C 3.4°C -3.4° -6.9°C Precipitation Rain 30 mm 61 mm 13 mm empty table cell Snow empty tabkleempty cell table cell1.8 cm 34 cm Environment Canada Toronto International Airpor GEORGIAN BAY SUPERINTENDENTS ON THE MOVE ASSOCIATION Paul Scenna is the new superintendent at Burlington Golf 1985 SCHEDULE and Country, Club leaving the Galt Country Club. Bruce Burger is leaving Dalewood and replacing Paul as May 15 Deerhurst Inn and Country Club Superintendent at Galt C.C. Host: Ed Farnsworth Tim Sherlock has moved to Cornwall Golf and Country Club Tee-off: 11a.m. from Caledon G.C. (formerly Chinguacousy) where he was the Rooms: $50 (regular $110and up) any occupancy assistant. (single, couble, triple, etc.) Greg O'Heron has moved to Markland Wood Country Club Dinner Show: $43 per person ADVANCE REGISTRATION ONLY from Board of Trade Country Club where he was the assistant. *Bringyourwivesorgirldfriends * Steve Miller and Randy Price are starting new careers in their own landscaping business. June4 Borden Golf andCurlingClub Host: Ray Richards All the best, guys. Tee-off: 11a.m. Entry fee: $12.00, dinner included Guest Speaker: TBA July 9 Royal Downs Golf Club Host: Stewart Picken JACKIE DERMOTT Tee-off: 11a.m. At the end of November, Jackie retired as secretary of the Entry fee: $12.00, dinner included Ontario Golf Superintendents Association. When she accepted Guest Speaker: TBA this "hobby" the association was quite small and the work load July 23 Horseshoe Valley Resort was modest, which was good because she also had 4 children Host: John Hughes to raise. Now the Association is 3 or 4 times larger, the job has Tee-off: 11a.m. turned into nearly a full time job, her kids are growing up and Entry fee: $12.00, dinner included Jackie would like to have some time to herself. All members Guest Sspeaker: TBA of the OGSA are truly grateful for the services that you have Aug. 6 BarrieGolf and Country Club provided us with over the years and we hope you enjoy your Host: Ed Doda new lifestyle.? Tee-off: 11a.m. Entrefee: $12.00, dinner included Thanks Jackie Guest Speaker: Keith Nisbit Sept. 4 andGBSATwoDayer 5 — GBSA Wind-up Wednesday 4th - Brooklea Golf and CC -tee-off: 1p.m. CINDI CHARTERS -dinner: 6p.m. Thursday 5th - Midland Golf Club Cindi has been hired as secretary of the OSGA -tee-off: 9a.m. -dinner: 4p.m. which she has been doing since early December. Hosts: Neil Acton and Alex LaBelle Cindi brings with her experience in office and Guest Speakers: Al Draper CGCS (Brooklea) banking duties. Cindi is married to Thom Charters Bob Heron CGCS (Midland) of Islington C.C. and they have two children. Rooms: $34double Entry fee: $25,2 dinners included For additional information, contact Heil Acton at the following Welcome Cindy numbers: (705) 549-2323 (home) (705) 526-7532 or 526-9872 (business) Ab Reeve, a charter member of the CGSA, re­ tired in November 1982 after 20 years as superintendent at the Whitevale Golf Club, Al Draper presenting a plaque to Jackie Dermott at the Annual Meeting of the OGSA but continued to work on a golf course, con­ in December 1984 for the outstanding service that she has given the association over tinued working at the Seaton Golf Club, until the years. his unexpected passing on December 3, 1984. DISEASE IDENTIFICATION AND CONTROL Islington Golf Club - October 25 and 26, 1984 by Neil Acton The Disease Identification and Control Rob Abbot, CGCS Dan McNeil Seminar jointly sponsored by the OGSA Bogie Lake Golf Club (USA) Green Hills Golf&CC and the GCSAA was attended by 52 Neil Acton, CGCS Bernie Martin superintendents, assistants, sales repre­ sentatives and landscapers. The very cap­ Brooklea Golf & CC Hamilton Golf & CC able instructors were Dr. Couch from the Lamont Anderson Doug Meyer, CGCS Department of Plant Pathology and Erie Shores Golf & CC Cedarbrook Golf & CC Physiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute Alan Beeney Stuart G. Mills, CGCS and State Univ, and Dr. Philip Larsen North Halton Golf & CC Hamilton Golf & CC from Ohio State University. John Bennet Alan Mills London Hung& CC South MuskokaG.C. Thom Charters and Islington Golf Club were kind enough to offer their Steve Elevens Tom Murphy clubhouse for the seminar for October Rolling Hills CC Lambton Golf &CC 25 and 26. The weather was quite mild William Bowen Gordon Nimmo so golf privileges were extended to all Peterborough Golf & CC Sarnia Golf & Curling Club who wished to tackle the fine Stan James H. Boyce Colin Nisbet Thompson designed course following the session. Boyce Agro Consulting Ltd. Westview Golf Club Thom Charters D.R. Pellrene GCSAA Education Coordinator, Col­ Islington Golf Club ScarboroGolf & CC leen Pederson, was on hand from Kansas Robert Cherry Alan Pinsonneault to ensure smooth proceedings and Cherry Downs Country Club Al's Lawn Care proved equal to the task. There was some John Cowie Robert Pontius confusion with regard to the actual fee Franklin Hills CC (USA) Thames Valley Golf & CC (American-Canadian funds), but Colleen managed to straighten everything up. Scott Dodson Robert Reid Chedoke Golf Course Thunder Bay CC I took this same seminar two years Al Draper, CGCS j. Douglas Rothwell prior and still found the subject matter Green HillsCC Royal Ottawa Golf Club informative and very current. Of particu­ William R. Fach Kimmo Salonen lar value were the questions and answers EssexGolf & CC York Downs Golf & CC as well as the discussions which took place. All material covered pertained to Ed Farnsworth Frederick Serrao our region and concerned diseases we Deerhurst Inn & CC Glen Cedars Golf Club deal with now (or may at any time). The John Gall William E. Shea instructors were very expert, both in their SaultSte. Marie Golf Club Muskoka Lakes Golf & CC knowledge as well as the way they hand­ David W. Gourlay David C. Smith led the lessons. It was nice to see they had done advance work through Dr. Lee Ladies Golf Club of Toronto Muskoka Lakes Golf & CC Burpee to familiarize themselves with the David Gourlay, Jr. Al Stoyles chemicals licenced in Canada and the Thornhill Country Club Fanshawe Golf Club most prevalent diseases. Mark Hagen Roy Szyndlar Wyldewood Golf & CC Southgate Golf Club Dr. Couch's work with spray systems Lorna Austin Bill Thompson to ensure maximum efficiency is timely considering the expense of fungicides Westview Golf Club Ltd. Hamilton Golf & CC and vigor of present day diseases. Dr. Kim Hanley Rod Trainor Larsen is doing research involving the in­ Blue Mountain Golf Club St. Thomas Golf & CC jection of fungicides into irrigation sys­ Bob Heron, CGCS Warren Vout tems as well as the development of dis­ Mississauga Golf & CC Whitevale Golf Club ease predictors for turf using machines presently used in other crop produc­ Hugh Kirkpatrick Paul White tions. Westmount Golf Club Lambton Golf & CC Brian McCann Teri Yamada The response was so great to the semi AllandaleG.C. Nutrite, Inc. nar, both associations have agreed to co­ sponsor another seminar November 7 Dennis McCracken Gavin W. Kellogg and 8, 1985. The title is presently Golf McCracken Golf Supplies, Inc. Brian'sGolf&CC Course Design and Construction. Ken Siems John Hughes Those in attendance were as follows: Mississauga Golf & CC Horseshoe Valley Resort Thom Charters, Dr. Larsen, Dr. Couch, Colleen Pederson 3. Ascertain the wage scale in the PROFESSIONAL The ETHICS district inwhich you are seeking employment; then uphold that scale. Respirator by Neil Acton 4. Be sure the position of Golf Course Superintendent is open at aclub before makingapplication. The winter months traditionally re­ sult in a lot of job movement as pos­ 5. If possible, talk with the man who itions become available more fre­ last held or now holds the posi­ quently at this time of the year. At a tion of Golf Course Superintend­ time that we are striving to attain rec­ ent. ognition as a Professional Organiza­ tion, it is of the utmost importance I realize it may be awkward to ap­ to pursue any positions with the proach a superintendent who is vac­ highest degree of integrity and pro­ ating his position, yet it is offensive fessionalism. The correct procedures not to do so. Two superintendents to follow are spelled out in our code who recently moved on to self-em­ of ethics which can be found in our ployment informed me that they A blade of grass. It has OGSA Directory. Since some of you were contacted by fewer than 10-20% no moving parts. Yet in may hot have it handy, I'll take this of the applicants. They were both its growth process, it takes polluting gases opportunity to mention the ethics quite upset by the lack of correct from the air and returns you should follow when considering ethics displayed, not so much on a pure oxygen. The another position. personal level, but how this reflected stur- dier the plant the more the on our profession. So remember to purification. In fact, actively 1. Seek counsel of local associations conduct yourself in a manner which growing grass on a plot 25 when applying for a position in a is totally above reproach as your ac­ feet square releases enough new district. tions (or lack of action) affects not oxygen to sustain life day only your personal situation but the after day for a grown person. 2. Recommend only OGSA mem­ reputation of all Professional Golf bers. Course Superintendents.? Fifteen Years Ago Today The following were elected to the Board of Directors at the annual meeting: John Grightmire (president); John Arends (vice-president); Bill Hynde; Helmot Kopp; Bob Heron (treasurer); Ron Allen; Bob Lamb; Bernie MacDonald; Ross Haines; Jim Whillie; Frank Dunn; and Allen Jones (past president). Mr. Cornish, the eminent Golf Meetings were held at Tam O'Shanter, Carl Sellers and the IBM Course Architect in Canada and the Country Club, Reg Stannard. 60 people attended the Galf Field Day U.S. will conduct a seminar, together with Dr. Eggens and Dr. Switzer speaking on their projects at the turf with his colleague Bob Graves from plots. 40 golfers teed off with Bill Hynde, 74 gross, and Bill Bond; 75 California. The date is November 7 gross, leading the pack. The Greens Chairman-Superintendent Golf & 8 at Lambton Golf Club and the subject is "Fundamentals of Golf Day was held on July 23 at the Aurora Highlands with 100 participants. Course Architecture". Only 60 par­ Winners were: low gross, Doug and and Keith Nesbit; and low net, ticipants will be allowed to enroll so Dave Gourlay and Frank RusselL please reserve early by contacting the OGSA office. Gord Witteveen at­ New Members were M. Shymanski, W. Shea, T. Ralph, Clare Witton tended this seminar in Chicago in and Carl Bennet. late November and recommends it highly as being first class. Members on the move were John Grightmire to Rosedale from Beverley GC, Roy French from Lookout Point to Beverley. 25 turf managers completed the first winter short course in Turf Management at the University of Guelph. They were Paul Scenna, Waterloo Golf Club; Weston Kastes, Dundee; Courtney Abblett, assit., Pine Valley; Doug Suter, Credit Valley; Ed Charman, Toronto Ladies; David Stevens, Beaverbrook; John Arends, Hawthorne Valley; Paul Weidmark, assist., IBM; Dave Gourlay, Thornhill; Keith Brown, Glen Lawrence; Ian McBean, St. Clair Comm.; Al Beeney, North Halton; Charles Behm, Cherry Ridgeway; Barry McIntosh, Cederbra; Frank Watts, Case Van Wees; Gord Witteveen, Northwood; Wm. Lantz, Guelph; Stew Mills, Glendale; R. Parkinson and Ron Weir, Pine Valley. The 61st Canadian Open was held at the London Hunt and Morley Findlay was the Superintendent. Fire strikes twice at the maintenance building in a period of less than 1 week. It was suspected that a fire bug was responsible and At the William Sanson Day last ironically the members at York Downs were to vacate the premises November, Kimmo Salonen passed a by the end of October and move their new 27 hole course near hat around and collected $150.00 for Unionville. Norman MacDonald was the Superintendent. the Ethiopian Relief Fund. CGSAA International Golf Course Conference and Show February 5-13, Washington, D.C. The CGSAA 56th International Golf was judged one of the ten best in tendent's attendance will become a Course Conference and Show was in North America. Mr. Al Draper, part of any responsible golf course's many people's minds a great success. CGCS, chaired the session on Inter­ budget. I am sure that in the future The total attendance was in the national Golf Course Management. the number of Canadian badges will neighbourhood of eight thousand This session opened the eyes of speak of our determination to pro­ people and as usual the organizers many of us as to the practices fol­ duce better quality golf courses. had anticipated virtually every even­ lowed in foreign countries where the The wealth of information was not tuality. The seminar sessions were attitudes of the golfers and govern­ limited to the words and texts that enhanced this year at the request of ments are very different to our own. were available. The value of personal the membership. An enrollment of Blake McMaster, Vice President of contacts and exchanges of view eight hundred bore testament to the the CGSA, spoke on the outlook of points with men such as Dr. James hunger for knowledge that is charac­ golf in Canada touching on the his­ Beard, Dr. Paul Rieke and St. An­ teristic of the professionals in our in­ tory and the future in each of the drews Superintendent, Walter dustry. provinces. Apparently golf is alive Woods, to name just a few was im­ The exhibits covered the largest and flourishing north of the 49th measurable. square footage of floor space yet. parallel. Ron Heesen gave us an in­ I know that I gained much from Many new pieces of equipment were sight into some of the agony and this conference and it will stand as a introduced as well as innovative ecstasy of starting a new job and Neil measure for future conferences to changes on existing models. No Acton, CGCS, showed us how re­ meet. doubt after we've had a chance to sourceful superintendents can be Alex La Belle digest what we have seen in when they have to produce quality Washington, Winnipeg will offer us golf courses on what is far from an the opportunity to examine things ideal budget. The conference was at­ again, with fresh questions in our tended by no fewer than fifty of the minds. Ontario Golf Superintendents As­ Canada was well represented, par­ sociation. We can be proud of the ticularly by the OGSA. No less than fact that these people are dedicated five of our members were involved to the strengthening through knowl­ in the conference. During the open­ edge of our profession. Once golf ing ceremonies, Barry Endicott re­ courses realize the great benefits that ceived an award for producing the they can derive from these confer­ newsletter "Green is Beautiful". It ences, then financing the superin­ "ME" You had better take good care of me. Perhaps you don't think much of me at times, but if you were to waken some morning and realize that you did not have me, you would start the day with an uneasy feeling. From me you get food, clothing, shelter and such luxuries as you can enjoy. If you want me badly enough, I will get you a 12 cylinder automobile and a home on Park Avenue. But I am exacting . . . I am a jealous mistress; yet sometimes you hardly seem to notice me at all. In fact, you make slighting remarks about me at times and neglect me. Considering the fact that you need me, not only for the material things of life but the spiritual as well, I wonder that you neglect me as you do. Your happiness would flee, for a time at least, your friends would worry and your bank account would dwindle. So, after all, I'm pretty important to you. Cherish me, take good care of me, and I promise that I will take good care of you. I AM YOUR JOB. From A Patch of Green November, 1984. ONTARIO TURFGRASS RESEARCH FOUNDATION December 4, 1984 PRESIDENT'S REPORT To those people who contribute so their assistance this event would not be generously to our largest fund raising the great success it is. I think we should It seems like only a short while since event each yer, the golf tournament — show our appreciation to these people we had our last Annual Meeting at North Thank you. in the usual manner. Halton Golf Club. However, we must be And without supporters such as Gil A few of the things you should be look­ another year older and, hopefully, Bleckman and Ken Wright of the National ing for in the coming year are: another year wiser as another Annual who have generously provided their out­ 1. Tourmanent date at the National is Meeting is now in progress. standing golf course for this event, where scheduled for August12th. I would like to thank Mark Hagen, our would we be? 2. Production of a video to portray the host at Wildwood Golf Club, for the use The University of Guelph is to be con­ Foundation objectives and goals. of their facilities. Also, a special thanks gratulated again for their co-operation on 3. Increased liaison with O.M.A.F. and to the Ontario Golf Superintendents' As­ the turf research projects. I am sure you the possible appointment of an ex­ sociation who have allowed us to share have noticed an improvement in the tension specialist, etc. this day, who have given us moral and quality of the turf plots each year. 4. The formation of a Turfgrass Research financial support when needed, as well Our advisers have provided invaluable Institute at the University of Guelph. as providing the impetus and origin of advice and direction to our activities — 5. The initiation of a Turfgrass Field Day our very existence. Keith Nisbet, Rolley Barnsley, Steve Mil­ at the Turfgrass Research plots during And to you, the members and suppor­ ler, Des Rice, John Wright, Lee Burpee September. ters of O.T.R.F. activities, a wholehearted and Krys Vandermay, we are indebted to As we look forward to the future, I "Thank you". In fact, I think we owe a you and hope you will continue to serve know the industry will be much better round of applause. Your support contrib­ us. The O.G.A. have been a very positive for our efforts as we attempt to unite the utes to, and will ensure, a strong healthy force as their generous support is very industry behind the worthy cause of industry from which we as individuals de­ much appreciated. Turfgrass Research. rive our income, in addition to a great The Industry suppliers have shown Thank you. ? deal of enjoyment. Superior turf grass their commitment to our activities also awards must always be our objective as by their generous support and without Paul Dermott we strive to provide the best possible turf grass for those people who use and enjoy our product. In viewing the financial statements of the Foundation, you will have noticed that our administrative costs have been held to a minimum. The Board of Direc­ tors has maintained a strong commitment to direct the maximum amount of income possible to the worthy task of Turfgrass Research. In fact, the Board members are out of pocket each time they attend or host a director's meeting. I would be remiss, while mentioning the Board's thriftness, if I did not mention our Professional Advisers, namely, the firm of Price Waterhouse, our account­ ants, whose fee has been absorbed by G.C Duke Equipment Ltd., at no cost to the Foundation. Thank you, Richard Duke. Thanks also to our legal counsel, The 1984 Turf Care Slow Pitch Tournament winners from Toronto Ladies Golf Club. Roebuck & Walkinshaw, Barristers & Sol­ laid out wavey base lines, Dennis Pel- icitors. Mr. Don Walkinshaw has donated his services to the Foundation at not cost. Turf Care Slow Pitch Irene from Scarborough, who donated barbecues, hamburgers and hot dogs for Thanks Mr. Walkinshaw. Tournament all. Music was provided by the Whirl Pool I would like to thank Barry Britton, Art Club for all those within a mile to enjoy. Drysdale and Paul White who are retiring The Third Annual Turf Care Slow Pitch from our Board. Their efforts on our be­ Tournament in Thornhill climaxed a great It is unfortunate that such powerful half have been commendable. However, year of Baseball with over 25 teams com­ teams as Oakdale, Emeralds Hills, Turf these fine gentlemen have indicated their peting for the 12 tournament spots in the Care, Donalda, Summit, Scarborough, willingness to serve as advisers to the finals. Meadowbrook and others fell to the Foundation and assist where possible. By the time the dust and the suds had thundering bats of the victors. At this time, I would like to welcome cleared the Toronto Ladies team cap­ The enthusiasm for the 1985 season has the new members of the Board — Bob tained by John Stein with Dave Gourlay inspired many supers to add to their em­ Brewster, Al Draper and Des Rice — as Jr., as water boy, captured the top spot ployment applications "Have you played well as welcoming back the returning di­ with the Westview Club, managed by Pro Baseball?" rectors, G. Williams, Ron Heeson and Mike Nesbit and captained by Bill Ham­ Richard Duke. The Foundation will be mond, claimed the runner-up trophy. For those interested in fielding a team much the better for their efforts and in­ Many thanks to all who helped John for the 1985 season please contact Jack volvement. Cunningham from Meadow Brook, who Austin or Ron Craig at Turf Care. TURF RESEARCH MOWING FAIRWAYS WITH SUPERS GREENSMOWERS J.L. Eggens, C.P.M. Wright, H. Arsenault, and R. Creed Horticultural Science and PROFILE January 8th, 1984 Cutten Club Golf Course O.G.S.A. Symposium The improved playing conditions resulting from closer mowing, reduced compaction and reduced scalping injury found when maintaining green surrounds and approach areas has prompted many superintendents Mr. Chairman, Learned Guest Ladies and to extend these playing conditions out into the fairway. Some superintendnents are now mowing all fairways Gentlemen: with smaller, lighter greensmower units. Considerable information is available on the economic aspects of this program but little is known of turfgrass stress tolerance under these reduced mowing heights. This study Here we are 1985, Jan. 8th. Do you re­ was initiated to evaluate the stress tolerance of fairway turf under 1.1 cm mowing height with clippings member what you were doing January 9th, removed compared to standard fairway practices. RESEARCH PROCEDURE 1963, 22 years ago? I was in a barn sorting Research plots were located on #8 fairway at the Cutten Club Golf Course. Commencing 10 April, 1984, the out glass insualtors, strap iron, 4 and 10 plots were mowed every second day with a Toro pull-type gangmower with 9 blade reels at a 2 cm height inch bolts from Douglas Fur cross bars. of cut or a Toro Greensmaster III at a 1.1 cm height of cut. The baskets on the greensmower were removed This collection had come from the road­ so that both mowing units returned the clippings. Immediately after mowing clippings from half of all plots side where Bell Canada had taken down were removed with a power sweeper. Measurements over the growing season including healing potential, stress tolerance and resistance to ball roll. multiple long distance lines. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Now you may think I've gotten myself The higher height of cut had a greater healing potential (Table 1). At the 2.0 cm height of cut 77% of the divot out on a limb or I'm still dreaming; maybe injury was healed while at the 1.1 cm height of cut only 26% of the divot injury areas healed over the same I am in the wrong building. period of time. The improved healing may be related to the greater carbohydrate production and storage What does this have to do with living at the 2 cm height of cut, resulting in a more rapid regrowth into the injured areas. Stress injury related to trees, green grass, bugs, fungus, weeds fertility was evaluated over the growing season. There were no differences observed between the two heights or our job? Well, plenty if you're in a of cut. situation like mine, trying to run a Golf Table 1. Influence of mowing height on divot healing and turf stress injury. Course top to bottom. I was being resourceful although not Mowing Height Divot healing + Stress injury 5 July running the course then. I was making (cm) (&) (&) decisions on what to keep and what to 1.1 26 22 throwaway. If you've seen our work yard 2.0 77 27 now you no doubt would say I lost the ability to decide, but we are still using + The percent of the original divot which was healed during the period Aug. 16 to Sept. 19, 1984. the bolts and strap iron I sorted out 22 The color of the 1.1 cm mowed fairway did not have the deep dark green color normally associated with years ago. Unfortunately we are still cor­ vigorous turf. Fertility trials were initiated 22 June to evaluate turf quality related to clipping removal. Four recting errors we made in constructing evaluation dates (4 Aug., 16 Aug., 17 Aug., and 26 Sept.) indicated that higher rates of nitrogen may be the Golf Course. required on fairways mowed at 1.1 cm when clippings are removed (Table 2). 1963 was the start of building Newcas­ Table 2. The influence of higher fertility rates ofer the growing season on turf quality. tle Golf Course and these nuts and bolts were something to do in the winter time. Evaluation Dates Evaluation Dates I am still looking for something to keep a crew working through the winter. Fertility 4Evaluation Aug(ScaleDates 16 Aug 1-10 with 10 (Scale highest)1-10 with 17Aug 10 (Scale highest) 26 1-10 withSept Evaluation 10 (Scale highest) dates 1-10 with 10 highest) When Dad and I plus acouple of school kids made up the crew, winter wasn't Control 5.5 7.0 7.0 9.3 hard to figure out. Dad had other work Milorganite 8.3 7.5 8.8 9.8 in Toronto, the kids went back to school Unfortified sewage sludge 7.0 8.5 8.3 9.5 and I pumped furnace oil for a local com­ pany. This went on for about 10 years; Both June and Sept, measurements indicated that the lower height of cut resulted in smaller divots (Table 3). then I started staying at the course doing The lower height of cut had a higher shoot density allowing the golf ball to sit on the upper leaf blades and much needed repairs. This worked out not within the turf plants. In the higher cut turf the golf club bites deeper into the turf, resulting in a larger divot. okay until Dad and Mother retired. Table 3. Influence of mowing height on size of divots removed. At this point I needed at least one or two people that would be there year after Divot size year — winter work — and it has to be something that is sulf-supporting, not Mowing height (cm) 1984(cm Divot Size June, ) 2 Sept., 1984(cm ) 2 just repairs, somethings that brings money in. 2.0 56 31 My wife Helen and I tried cross-country 2.0 86 48 skiing, using the Pro Shop and selling hot chocolate and coffee and sandwiches. Under the 1.1 cm height of cut, the ball rolls almost twice as far as compared to the 2.0 cm height of cut We charged two dollars a head and re­ (Table 4). With appropriate cultural practices such as adequate fertility and irrigation, the lower height of cut does improve turf quality without significantly decreasing the stress tolerance of the turf during the nted equipment which we in turn had growing season. rented for the season. The first year was Table 4. Stimpmeter-measured ball roll. okay, good snow, it came early in November and stayed until mid-March. Mowing height Ball roll We paid expenses and had nothing left over, we drew no wages from this ven­ (cm) 1.1 111 ture. The next year we purchased the ski­ 2.0 68 ing equipment. The snow wasn't as good but we covered expenses, but not wages. have. In a family run course the wages it. Once we were without a greens mower The next year the snow covered the are low, and that is because of the com­ for 4 days; we managed to get a walk ground for about 10 days; the next year petition and the family members know behind Jack running Saturday night and was even worse. The following year we they are part of the business. This has to I cut 19 greens Sunday morning. I sold the equipment. Moral — effort does be or only half the owner/operator thought I was going to have a heart at­ not guarantee success, it does guarantee courses would now be operating. I work tack! experience and wariness. for $4.00 an hour six months of the year, Generally the same problems plague Here we are in the 1980's, the golf and about $8.00 an hour the other six. us all; also we enjoy the same highs from course is getting there, not by leaps and No one is going to fire me, but I could our work. That to my mind is the bounds, but getting there just the same. go hungry so it's the same thing. strongest selling point of this and other I can now identify about 10 trees, maybe How many of you over-paid, under­ associations like it, get together, kick the 5 types of grass, sometimes the odd fun­ worked rich people have finished a day problems around and don't forget to tell gus and even a few weeds. On top of all at the golf course, sent the crew home, about the solutions. that I almost know what to do once the and wandered up to the pro shop or club Here's a little tidbit about winter cover item in view is identified. house for a leisurely coffee. You sit down for greens. At present we are using "Re­ What is happening in the winter time, and then your conscience starts to re­ May" spun polyester made by Dupont. you might ask; well, I built a saw mill as mind you of all the work that needs to The 14th green gets wind blown or desi- much for our own use as for doing cus­ be done. cated so this year we covered it with Re­ tom milling. I tell you, if it is labour you If your conscience takes a holiday, may in late November; a week later we want there is plenty in this enterprise. I there is always someone willing to play covered part of the 3rd green, same prob­ suspect there is a little money in it too, the part. All golf courses are the same in lem plus this green was just rebuilt. The what with the price of lumber, but that that there is a never-ending demand on sod barely nitted down. remains to be seen. our time, energy and ingenuity. Well that's fine except the cover on the The problem of continuous employ­ It is nice to be in demand and the chal­ 3rd green blew out a few days before ment for the main body of workers is a lenge brings out the best in people; I just Christmas. The cover on the 14th is still big one. It illustrates a difference be­ wish there was more time to sit and think. fine. I have come to the conclusion that tween a superintendent at a large My day starts around 7:00 through the since the ground was frost free on the "member owned course" and a "small" week and about 6:00 on the weekends. 14th and there was about 1" of frost when owner-superintendent type course. Helen, my wife and I go down to the golf we put the cover on the 3rd, plus the Another difference in my case is I have course, put on the coffee, open up the sods may have been loose. That the wire never made up a budget. The allotment buildings and get the electric carts out. staples made holes bigger than usual of money is on a day to day basis and We have something for breakfast and when pushed through the frost and what is left over gets spent the next year. then the workers start coming in. I usu­ therefore were loose near the surface. Golf Courses like our run very close to ally spend the day out on the course un­ When the mild spell and high winds the line, if the weather was very bad some less we are short of workers in the pro came, the flapping cloth worked the summer we would all be out looking for shop. After supper I can usually get in a staples out. winter work. couple of hours doing oddball jobs or My conclusion is that staples put on I referred earlier to 'if you are in a situ­ working on ideas without having to keep 14" to 16" spacings work fine if put in ation like mine', well, you know, all of the crew busy. To me this is the best time tight in frost free ground. The sods may us whether we be a superintendent that of the day. Then it is back to the pro shop have contributed to the loose surface maintains the golf links and nothing else to put carts away and close up and chat after the melt — next year I will find out. right through to an owner/superinten- to some of the last players. That's all I have to say and as far as dent/manager. We are all faced with simi­ If I need to irrigate then I will have to playing with the whole ball of wax. In my lar problems, an owner/superintendent set up the manual system before dark. mind it comes down to the same thing, just carries them around with him more. Then I move the sprinklers every 2 to 21/2 keeping one step ahead of a payment, a In my case and indeed the majority of hours; it takes until the next light to do fungus or a creepy crawling critter, stay golf courses are the same, where to all the greens and tees. on top, use your ingenuity and imagina­ spend money and effort is a never-ending The same as on any low budget course, tion, and you can be sure of one thing: question. if there is a breakdown in the equipment, when you pick up your pay you'll know Do we spend it on the grounds, the you have to fix it right then and there, you're not cheating. buildings, the equipment, maybe hire simply because there are no back-up Thank you. more people or pay more to the ones we units; it is a nerve-wracking way of doing Tom Simpson CONGRATULATIONS POSITION AVAILABLE MIKE MAYNE of Ontario Turf Equipment, winner of the Sunningdale Golf Club Ltd. has an immediate open­ Jacobsen Distributorship Of The Year Award. Presented to ing for a qualified Assistant Superintendent. him at the G.C.S.A.A. Conference in Washington. Sunningdale is a thirty-six hole golf facility and is located one mile north of the City of London, Ontario. FOR SALE The successful applicant will have completed post­ 1 — 300 gal. John Bean Sprayer $800 secondary education in turf management, and a 6 — Westinghouse electric carts ea., $700 minimum of five years experience in areas of course 1 — 11/2 ton truck, metal ramp $175 maintenance, irrigation practices, and the uses of fer­ Call John Hutchinson, (705) 924-2569 tilizers, fungicides and herbicides. Please forward full resume including salary expected FOR SALE to: Ken E. Nelson, Superintendent, 10 — Harley Davidson Carts - Excellent Condition Sunningdale Golf Club Ltd., Contact Ken Nelson R.R. #5, Londont, Ont. N6A 4B9. COMING EVENTS OGSA/Border Cities Joint Meeting Dan Uzelac — Dominion Golf Club April 10 & OGSA/WOGSA Joint Meeting Bill Glashen — Whirlpool Golf Club May 16 "Green is Beautiful" Ontario Golf Superintendents Association