Green is Beautiful Ontario Golf Superintendents Association P.O. BOX 203, ISLINGTON, ONT. M9A 4X2 FEBRUARY '88 TELEPHONE: (416) 233-8388 ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 1988 PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT PAST PRESIDENT THOM CHARTERS NEIL ACTON CGCS ROBERT KENNEDY Weston Golf & Country Club Brooklea Golf & Country Club City of St. Catherines 50 St. Phillips Road P.O. Box 1342 Parks & Recreation Weston, Ontario M9P 2N6 Penetang, Ontario LOK IP0 St. Catherines, Ontario L2R 7C2 Phone: Bus. (416) 241-5551 Phone: Bus. (705) 526-4484 Phone: Bus. (416) 937-7210 Res. (416) 234-0425 Res. (705) 549-2323 Res. (416) 935-2019 DIRECTORS Editor Calendar Golf and Meetings ROD TRAINOR CGCS GREG O'HERON RON HEESEN St. Thomas Golf & C.C. Markland Wood C.C. Beachgrove Golf & C.C. P.O. Box 62 245 Markland Drive 14134 Riverside Drive East St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3T5 Etobicoke, Ontario M9C IRI Windsor, Ontario N8N 1B6 Phone; Bus. (519) 631 -2447 Phone: Bus. (416) 625-2062 Phone: Bus. (519) 979-8134 Res. (519) 631-4798 Res. (416)673-7687 Res. (519) 979-8134 Treasurer Roster Entertainment & By-Laws GORDON NIMMO CGCS JOHN TAYLOR SCOTT DODSON Sarnia Golf & Curling Club Twenty Valley G.C. Summit Golf & C.C. 500 Errol Rd. W. 107 Ontario St. P.O. Box 420 Sarnia, Ontario N7V 1X7 St. Catharines, Ontario Richmond Hill, Ontario L4C 4Y6 Phone. Bus. (519)336-0667 Phone: Bus. (416) 562-4333 Phone: Bus. (416) 884-5234 Res. (519) 332-1521 Res. (416) 682-3516 Res. (416) 544-6803 Membership Secretary & Symposium Chairman Public Relations ED FARNSWORTH MARK HAGEN DAVE W. GOURLAY ( Jr. ) Deerhurst Inn Golf & C.C. Wyldewood Golf Club Beacon Hall R.R. #4 R.R. #1 R.R. #2 Huntsville, Ontario P0A IK0 Hornby, Ontario LOP 1E0 Aurora, Ontario L4G 3G8 Phone: Bus. (705) 789-5543 Phone: Bus. (416) 878-4848 Phone: Bus. (416) 888-1606 Res. (705) 789-8282 Res. (416) 845-3183 Res. (416)731-9116 NEWSLETTER EDITOR ROD TRAINOR CGCS EDITOR EMERITUS — BARRY ENDICOTT OFFICE SECRETARY CINDI CHARTERS From the President... From the Editor. The game of golf is currently enjoying a signi­ In his final editorial, Neil Acton mentioned ficant increase in popularity. As a result, new that all good things come to an end. It surely courses are being built, older courses are being was a good thing for Neil, as he did an excellent renovated, private clubs have full memberships job as Editor of this publication, evidence being with substantial waiting lists and public courses that "Green is Beautiful" has, for the second are hard pressed to accommodate the remain­ time, won the GCSAA's award for best format ing, keen golfers. It stands to reason that all must and readability. be well for those who make their livelihood in As I begin the task of taking over as editor, I this field. am beginning to realize the amount of work Generally speaking, this is true. But there are a Neil had to do to put out such a fine publication. number of concerns that face golf course super­ One of the most important functions in keep­ intendents in particular. Increased golfer expec­ ing this magazine fresh is locating and getting a tations due to increased fees and considerable good variety of interesting articles. I hope to be improvements during the last ten years have put able to publish more articles on actual projects more pressure on today's superintendents. Fur­ and/or situations that have gone on at golf thermore, these expectations lead to dissatisfac­ courses right here in Ontario. tion when the desired results are not immediate. However, I am not a reporter and cannot hunt This fact, when coupled with the recent golf down all these interesting items, so if you course construction boom, explains in part why should receive a call from me requesting an ar­ there have been so many position changes in ticle or report on a particular topic or project at the past two years. This "shuffling of the deck" is your course or place of business, please take it likely a positive thing, at least in the short run; seriously and write it down (preferably typed) however, I believe some stability will be ap­ and send it off to me. preciated by the affected individuals and I am looking forward to putting out a publica­ courses. tion that the members will want to read and With this in mind, we hope that the informa­ hope that I can continue the good work where tion contained in this Special Edition of Green is Neil has left off. Beautiful is helpful to all those who are involved with golf course maintenance. Rod Trainor, We welcome your comments about this issue and take the opportunity to wish you the best in the fast approaching golf season. OGSA Board of Directors 1988 Thom Charters, Ooops! In the last issue of "Green is Beautiful" we for­ got to thank Dave Dick of O.M. Scotts for his Top row, L-R: Mark Hagen, Neil Acton, Thom Charters, support of the Spring Field Day held at Galt Ron Heesen, Gord Nimmo, John Taylor. Bottom row, L-R: David Gourlay, Rod Trainor, Greg O'Heron, Country Club. Sorry, Dave . . . and thanks! Ed Farnsworth, Scott Dodson. "Thanks" Superintendents "Green is Beautiful" and the directors of the Ontario golf Superintendents Association would On the Move like to say Thanks to the following Associate members for their support as advertisers: Barry Endicott begins his new duties as Superintendent of Nobleton Lakes Golf and Country Club in February. A great track. Dave Turf Care Nicol, former golf course superintendent and 105 Gibson Drive, Markham, Ont. most recently general manager at Nobleton May and Baker Canada Inc. Lakes is off to Hong Kong. 1274 Plains Rd. E., Burlington, Ont. Walt Dudnick leaves Dalewood Golf and Braemer Building Systems Country Club to assume the Superintendent's re­ R.R. #1, York, Ont. sponsibilities at Millcroft Golf and Country Club. Hinspergers Poly Industries Ltd. After moving that far west we hope Walt can 645 Needham Lane, Mississauga, Ont. still play hockey for the east squad in the annual Gordon Bannerman Ltd. EastAA/est Hockey Challenge in March. Scott 41 Kelfield St., Rexdale, Ont. Dodson may have something to say about that. Douglas Wood Large Tree Sales Meanwhile, Scott Dodson is familiarizing R.R. #2, Rockwood, Ont. himself with Summit Golf and Country Club. Nutrite Inc. The golf course construction boom continues P.O. Box 160, Elmira, Ont. with the latest new course position being filled W. Robert Hutcheson Sand & Gravel Ltd. by Barry Britton who leaves Glendale Golf and Box 937, Huntsville, Ont. Country Club to go to a new Kaneff Homes Chipman Inc. (CIL) course. 400 Jones Rd., Stoney Creek, Ont. Associate member Doug Colley goes from Oseco Inc. Duke Equipment to Marmac Hydraulics and Box 219, Brampton, Ont. helps Jim Tanner set up shop and to sell Lesco. The Greener Side, Irrigation We wish all these members good luck in their 251 Exeter Rd., Unit D, London, Ont. new positions. We look forward to their continued support, and encourage our members to patronize our associate members. Should any of our associate members wish any additional information on advertising, please call or write: ROD TRAINOR CGCS 288 FOREST AVE. ST. THOMAS, ONT. N5R 2K4 (519) 631-2447 Ontario Golf Superintendents Association You and Your Association lationship with the Golf Superintendents Association of America as a member chapter. Each fall the OGSA sponsors a GCSAA seminar on a popular topic rang­ Ed Farnsworth ing from insect problems to course construction. The Ontario Golf Superintendents Association was These seminars present industry-recognized instruc­ established in 1924 and has remained as one of the tors in small classroom-style meetings and are oldest golf associations in North America. It was ini­ awarded GCSAA certification points. The OGSA's in­ tiated by a group of Toronto area Superintendents for volvement with GCSAA has also been instrumental the purpose of discussing the turfgrass industry and in maintaining a Canadian representation on the its related problems. The first meetings were simple American board, from committee members to presi­ golf days followed by hearty conversations. Today, dents. the most important aspect of the association remains Three golf tournaments are sponsored by the OGSA the dissemination of information regarding industry annually: Spring Field Day, Pro-Superintendent and the to and between its members. This is accomplished in President-Green Chairman-Superintendent. various manners, from an informal discussion by sev­ These tournaments are very useful, not only for the eral superintendents during a golf day to the fall professional dialogue among superintendents, but seminars or the January symposium where the best also for the chance to view other superintendents' op­ speakers and researchers in the industry are present. erations and "tricks of the trade". Tournament play also You may learn of a new disease or insect problem affords a prime opportunity for other executives of a from the speakers but may also learn from fellow club to observe other superintendent's professionalism. superintendents the most practical and least expen­ Another example of the OGSA's commitment to sive solution. This friendly dialogue is one of the best informing its members is the periodical "Green is information sources for superintendents to continue Beautiful", published quarterly. This magazine con­ improving golf facilities in Ontario. tains numerous articles on research, professionalism, The annual Turfgrass Symposium in January news of fellow members, even the history of the as­ brings together some of the best researchers from sociation. With the addition of advertising, this Canada and abroad to relate their findings. Fellow magazine has also become profitable. The OGSA superintendents also discuss items of interest from also produces a yearly roster which provides names their operations to increase the variety of speakers. and addresses of all members and associate mem­ The symposium was expanded to a two-day event bers and a schedule of upcoming events for the year. in recent years to accommodate all of the interesting Looking back over the 64 years of the association's speakers available. Further expansion of the sym­ history, the initial objective of its founding members posium is presently being discussed by the directors has not been lost. The OGSA is still bringing together of the association. other avenues for the member to educate himself Another benefit of the OGSA membership is its re­ and improve his profession. ‘‘In this day and age, a golf course superintendent has be agronomist, an economist, and a good people manager. If you put all this together with a love for a piece of earth, then you’ve got a good golf course superintendent. ” Tom Watson Can it get any trol turf loss. If and when you do finally get someone to sit down and listen to all the reasons why we don't look like "perfection country club" down the worse? by Rod Trainor CGCS The season of 1987 for many Superintendents road, their answer is usually, "Say, I'm bringing some guests out next week —you're not topdressing, are you?" You pull out what remaining hair you have would be just as well forgotten. Weather proved to and wonder why you put up with it all. be the downfall of many turf maintenance programs. Then along comes fall with cooler temperatures "Extreme" was the key word last year — extreme and long awaited rain and that invisible "poa" starts heat, extreme moisture, extreme dryness — all led to to grow back and you have a golf course again. And other extremes such as disease and costs. the members forget (or do they?). With all the 1987 was just "one of those years" and it will be changes going on today, I think that maybe they a long time before we get conditions like that again aren't forgetting as much. WRONG! Perhaps one of the main reasons why so many of Scientists say mean global temperatures are on the us get under the gun with our clubs is because they rise — the greenhouse effect, some call it. really don't know what's going on. Communication Nevertheless, I think we can expect more summers is the number one issue in our jobs today. We can all like we just experienced. keep a golf course in good condition under ideal Whether you lost large amounts of grass or a little, conditions, but what about when those conditions I don't believe anybody escaped. A smart super­ aren't ideal? Do the people we work for know our intendent will use it to his advantage to finally con­ problems, and do they respect them and us? vince his superiors that maybe the irrigation system Yes, it can get worse if we don't learn some does need looking at; or maybe some cultural prac­ proper communication skills. In this issue of "Green tices such as aerating, verticutting and topdressing is Beautiful" a number of proven practices and ap­ are important. Regardless of what was learned, we proaches are presented. did learn something and hopefully we'll be better We hope you will take the time to read at least prepared the next time. some of these articles and maybe you will learn Do your members know what problems you were something that will prove useful at your own club. facing last year? Keeping a full membership in­ Golf is a booming business and golf courses are the formed is almost impossible and in most cases not showcases of the turf industry which makes the necessary. They're just not interested in hearing that superintendent's image more important than it has big long story about heat induced, thatch related ever been. You, as a superintendent, had better be fungus causing phenomena totally-out-of-your-con- ready to deal with it. The OGSA extends its best wishes to the Canadian Golf Course Superintendents Association for a successful Conference and Trade Show and welcomes all attendees with the hope that you have an educational and enjoyable week in Toronto. Bienvenu ACSG were passed over for consultants Pesticides Consultants- south of the border for use at the Glen Abbey Golf Course in Oak­ Do we really have any ville. by Dr. R,J. Cooper University of Massachusetts in Canada? Today there is quite a diversified group of consultants for use on golf by Dave Gourlay courses. The most commonly used Did you know . . . The origins of the turfgrass con­ consultants now come from either sultant in Canada are found with the United States Golf Association . ... . that contaminants are the golf course architects. Along Greens Section, Universities or Golf with the design and construction of Course Superintendents from es­ measured in parts per bil­ the golf course, the architects fre­ tablished golf courses. Certian spe­ lion (ppb) and that 1 ppb is cific problems are associated with quently were responsible for the equivalent to 1 second in 32 maintenance of the turfgrass for a each of the groups. Of these years. year or more. shortcomings the most evident is the lack of technical expertise utilized in . . . that 99% of all carcino­ backing up basic broad statements gens which humans injest concerning the turf problems. With­ out the technical and scientific facts are the result of products the consultants can hardly be consi­ other than man made pes­ dered objective. In order for Cana­ ticides. dian consultants to gain the credibil­ ity they rightly deserve, certain basic . . . that public opinion prerequisites must be in place. grossly exaggerates the ac­ First off, the qualifications of the tual risk posed by pesticides. consultant must be such that credi­ One U.S. poll had individuals bility is installed. The consultant must have a well-rounded education, rank 30 sources of risk, and being a graduate of a recognized their answers indicated that Hence the beginning of the golf turfgrass management course, pref­ pesticides were 9th — with course consultant. This contractual erably a degree in agronomy. He more related deaths than consultant provided a much-need­ must be able todraw upon his years ed service to the golf industry. As of practical experience in his analysis motor vehicle accidents, golf in Canada continued to evolve, of the situation. He must be able to surgery or electrical power. In so did the demands in turf man­ communicate effectively with golf fact, pesticides actually agement. As a result of the rapid course superintendents, for it is the ranked 28th and contri­ advancements in turf management, superintendent that must implement the golf course architect made way any ideas or suggestions the consul­ buted to less annual deaths to the Royal Canadian Golf Associ­ tant may offer. He must also be able than vaccinations, scholastic ation and Ontario Golf Association to provide a detailed technical report football and lawn mower appointed consultants. These con­ based on scientific information con­ accidents. sultants consisted of individual golf firming his appraisal of the situation. course superintendents who were Chemical testing of the turfgrass This is not intended to greatly respected by their peers. must become as routine as taking portray pesticides as harm­ This intermediate stage of de­ your temperature. It certainly is as im­ velopment in the history of the con­ portant in the overall analysis of the less materials. Rather, it is to sultants was relatively short-lived report. And finally, the consultant emphasize that the current and the R.C.G.A. stepped in. Being should be registered with a recog­ anti-pesticide furor is based the governing body of Golf in nized golf association, whether it be on emotional reaction and is Canada, the R.C.G.A. took the ap­ the R.C.G.A., C.G.S.A., O.G.A. or the propriate action in uniting a group O.G.S.A., etc. This way the consultant not supported by scientific of consultants across Canada. This is accountable to the above for ser­ fact. concept of regionalization in ap­ vices rendered. Pesticides must be used pointing qualified consultants to By using the guidelines mention­ responsibly and according to specific regions across the country ed above, I sincerely feel that the was indeed a good one. Unfortu­ Canadian consultant can gain the re- the label. nately the credibility of this worthy spectibility and degree of profes­ Golf course superinten­ group came to an abrupt end sionalism the golfing industry is in dents must guarantee it. when these Canadian consultants such dire need of. Reprinted from USGA Green Section Record May/June 1985 Complainin' and Explainin' The Member and Superintendent Relationship It's a cloudy spring morning Why can't the greens be suddenly begin about hard with a very light mist. A club slower, fairways longer and greens. We must all remember it member is driving past the course roughs shorter? Or, Why can't is the responsibility of the player on his way to work. He notices the greens be faster, fairways to put enough backspin on a ball the irrigation system is on and shorter and roughs higher? to cause it to stop; it is not the re­ wonders why a currently wet golf sponsibility of the green to hold course is being watered. Doesn't These are very frequent ques­ any shot. the superintendent know what tions asked by high and low In regard to rough height, it de­ he is doing? handicap players. Often, high pends primarily on the type of This Wednesday an important handicap players ask the former grass within the rough areas. A client is in town and you've in­ question while the low handicap 2 1/2-inch bentgrass, bermudagrass vited him to a round of golf. The player asks the latter. The impor­ or kikuyugrass rough will play course was in extraordinary con­ tant question for club officials to with much greater difficulty than dition last Saturday. You have ask is, "What type of golf course a 21/2-inch perennial ryegrass or lunch and tee off at 1 p.m.. You does the membership want?" Kentucky bluegrass rough. Again, reach the first green and find it As a general guideline, putting the membership must be taken (and all the others) aerified and green speed for normal member­ into account. Rough mowed at topdressed since last Monday! ship play in the 7-foot to 8-foot the 2- to 2 1/2-inch level for normal Why do they always have to tear range (depending on green con­ membership play will provide im­ up and ruin the greens Just when tours) should provide adequate proved fairway framing and an they're perfect? pace. If a special tournament or adequate challenge. As with The preceding are just two club championship requires slightly green speed, additional rough examples of questions the golf faster greens, this can be achieved height for special tournaments course superintendent must an­ easily on the short term. Excessive can be achieved for short periods. swer daily. If he is approached speed on the long term is becom­ To summarize, putting green with an inquisitive attitude and a ing an increasingly difficult prob­ speed from seven feet to eight desire for honest information, the lem. The player must understand feet, fairways mowed from 1/2- to superintendent can ususally ex­ the agronomic factors involved in 3/4-inch, and roughs mowed 2- to plain the situation. He can give excessively fast or slow greens, 2 1/2-inches may provide the least good reasons that, hopefully, will while the superintendent must amount of controversy from the not be perceived as excuses. The provide the best putting surfaces golfing membership. superintendent, on the other for his membership. I just played Perfection Coun­ hand, must strive to avoid as For fairway playing conditions, try Club last week. Why can't many controversies as possible. a height of 1/2-inch (bentgrass, our course be as good? When he sets his programs, he bermudagrass, zoysiagrass) to 3/4- must attempt to disturb the few­ inch (bluegrass) is desirable in Of all the complaints, this is the est number of playing members. most cases. A number of golfers most difficult to answer. In many The subject of communication want to know why fairways are cases the best answer is no an­ has been discussed and written cut so short. Raise the mowers swer at all. Those golfers who in­ about by experts, so I will not at­ and the ball will sit up higher, sist on comparisons should obtain tempt to discuss how to com­ right? Wrong. The players should as much information as possible municate; rather, I will try to ex­ understand that a higher height before they draw conclusions. As plain several often-repeated com­ of cut actually makes the ball sit more information is delivered, the plaints of golf course mainten­ down in the grass and results in clearer the picture becomes. ance practices and some practical more flyer lies. It becomes unfor­ Comparing golf courses is like methods to reduce or eliminate tunate when the height of a fair­ comparing snowflakes — no two these concerns. way cut is raised and complaints are the same. The continual little problems. peculiar problems in a golf course coming year's operation has been Why are the benches wet? maintenance operation. These used successfully at some clubs to Why is there no water in the methods include: disseminate information. You can ball washers? Why are the 1. Club newsletter — Every month, expect several of the preceding ball washer towels always the superintendent should have a questions to arise. This offers an dirty? Why is there no sand in short article describing his plan­ excellent method to provide need­ the bunkers? Why don't the ned operations or covering ques­ ed information to the membership. employees turn off their tions that are continually asked. Also, it allows all members an op­ equipment while I'm putting? 2. Monthly bill — When club portunity to state complaints or Etc. dues notices are sent out, a short comments concerning the golf paragraph or two about course course operation. While many of these questions may seem petty, they actually are small indicators of how the maintenance staff views the gol­ fers and their course. Instilling pride in the maintenance staff can eliminate many of these little problems. So often we take the little things for granted, and these small problems can become rather large. It is important to re­ mind every crew member that he is working for the golfers and pro­ viding a service. Even the smallest complaint must be listed to atten­ “Why must they always aerify on the day I play?” tively as it is important to that par­ operations can reach many 5. Occasional rounds of golf with ticular person. people who otherwise may not both men's and ladies groups re­ While the preceding questions read the newsletter or notice arti­ gardless of the superintendent's are some of the more frequently cles posted throughout the club. playing skill provides constructive heard, they are by no means the 3. Announcement boards — conversation opportunities. It is only questions a superintendent While a bulletin board can be ef­ important that the membership must handle. The predictable and fective, many times it becomes understands that the superinten­ unpredictable problems that arise cluttered. The superintendent's dent is a golfer and understands must be handled with tact and memos (aerification dates, top- the game. This alone often gives sincerity. dressing dates, fertilizer dates) can credibility to the superintendent's The effective turf manager become lost or forgotten. An eras- programs. Without it, golfers knows many of the questions in ible announcement board for the wonder (often mistakenly) if the advance, and he has carefully golf course only, displayed in a superintendent really does under­ prepared the proper answers. He prominent location, is more stand how to maintain a golf also takes advantage of every op­ noticeable. Daily, weekly or course. portunity to pass on information monthly programs can be shown about the golf course and the to forewarn players of mainte­ While we should all strive to maintenance programs that affect nance practices. While many understand and respect the play. maintenance practices can mildly golfer's point of view, it is the upset golfers, they can become superintendent's responsibility to Several methods of information very upset if these practices are a educate the golfer about his dispersal are available to the surprise and done without prior maintenance programs. Through superintendent and green com­ notice. mutual respect and understand­ mittee chairman. The more expla­ 4. Special meetings — The idea ing, complainin' and explainin' nations about the course opera­ of a special meeting in the spring can become a positive avenue to tions given to the membership, put on by the superintendent and answer questions and dissemi­ the more they are given an op­ green committee chairman for nate information for the member portunity to understand the the membership to outline the and superintendent. Oh where oh where have my Ethics gone by Ron Heesen It seems that there is never a year that passes consultants usually end up giving all their exper­ without a claim or claims of a breach in our ethics. tise to a Board of Directors. To me this method is I feel our ethical standards and codes of conduct equivalent to the teacher telling the students what are laid out quite clearly, but we still hear of these kind of teacher to look for and how he/she should breaches. Now, this article was and is intended to teach. How ridiculous! address public relations and the golf course Again, more scenarios, problems, etc. that no superintendent. But, if we look at our own public code of ethics may ever be able to solve no matter relations and standards at our respective work­ how detailed. There is nothing wrong with con­ places and place our code of ethics along side of sulting or visiting other clubs — the manner in it we can begin to form a picture of how the two which they are done is the problem. fit together. We can avoid this ethics problem by What are the solutions? I don't know, and I'm improving our public relations. We'll get to the not sure many others do either. Ethics are almost public relations later; first, let's discuss ethics. like morals — everyone has their own standards. First of all, most breaches of our code of ethics We all interpret them in our own fashion and can­ seem to crop up when another superintendent not expect all superintendents to behave like has been asked his/her opinion on certain prac­ clones. Look at other professions for comparison: tices and how they relate to the "other” or "inquir­ laywer Greenspan, Dr. Morgentaler, the Great ing" course. I suspect that the proper answer Gretzky. should be that if any information of this nature is To become better we need good competition required a meeting should be held between the and a lot of flexibility. You'll notice that until now two superintendents along with the green chair­ this story has sounded very negative. We all work man. I also suspect that this response isn't always in a very exciting and rewarding profession that, if possible, especially when a director from another respected, can provide a very attractive lifestyle. club shows up at your course management The only way out of this nasty ethical smethical centre, tells you how great you are and would mess and to prevent the aforementioned prob­ give anything for a tour of your facility. lems is through our now famous and overstated These possible scenarios are endless, and in an but underused public relations or personal prom­ industry that has shown great growth, the busi­ otion, or whatever you want to call it. ness of golf course superintending is also quite The way I see it, we should all: small and feelings are quite easily hurt. 1) Love ourselves; 2) Take care of our families; 3) Another sore spot seems to crop up with con­ Be neat, courteous, kind, always wear the club sulting — and I'm sure we've all been asked to logo — I'm sure your staff has T-shirts, why not consult in one form or another. But when consult­ you? 4) Communicate; 5) Take care of your staff; 6) ing on a golf course — this is a different story. Im­ Promote your colleagues. If your neighbouring mediately the consultant is perceived to be ahead club does something you don't or can't, it usually of the course superintendent. How many consul­ ends up in an easy sell for equipment or an irriga­ tants have explained to their customers that their tion system for your golf course; 7) Jacket and tie course budget is double the other course, or dared at all meetings, concise reports on conditions and to mention that their design and construction is so work completed presentations; 8) Today, we must superior that given optimum turf conditions the be more open. Don't be afraid of criticism — it will "other" course will never stack up against the con­ come whether you want it or not. Have meetings sultant's. at your shop — make it the course management I've often felt that a good parallel is the teaching centre. Even the Russians are trying it! 9) Respect profession. I have a friend who gives seminars to your employer — it's their golf course and you'll other teachers of other school boards on the never own it; 10) Eliminate the words "we can't weekends. This sounds great, doesn't it? But our do that" from your vocabulary; 11) Only you can save your job. Make sure all is correct on the er and rather than write about the searing heat homefront before you - dare I say it - do some that made it impossible to grow grass, let's write outside consulting; 12) Arrange visits of other golf about how magnificently we handled the stress course management centres with your committee. and the superiority of our course conditions; 19) Don't wait for them to do it; 13) Communicate! Be able to laugh at yourself; 20) Make your golf 14) Learn from every meeting and put that knowl­ course the trend setter! 21) Accept criticism as con­ edge to work in a fashion that benefits your course; structive suggestions, not as a defamation of 15) Be the happiest person on your management character; 22) Respect the wishes of the golfers. team and accept adversity as an enjoyable chal­ I hope this helps in our ethical dilemma. Who lenge; 16) Accept public relations as a daily ongoing knows, if we follow these tips we may lose that ritual that does not stop at shaving in the morning, consultant. I am sure they won't mind. I really do but must always continue to change and improve; feel that ethics and public relations go hand-in- 17) Take your days off on clubhouse closed days hand. Adhere to a strict program of good public whenever possible. On busy Saturdays and Sun­ relations, and you'd be amazed at the benefits. days it never hurts to be out inspecting conditions We work in an exciting arena and should all make in the afternoon; 18) As a group we should view the best of it, for we are a fortunate few!! ourselves as Oscar nominees. Promote one anoth­ The Golf Course Management Team by Scott Dodson Many successful golf clubs have clubs may seem to operate in a man­ a management team in place that ner of confusion, where board or works very well together. This is committee members, managers, golf very important in order for the golf pros and superintendents have "as­ club to run smoothly and efficiently. sumed" certain duties and respon­ The General Manager, Golf Course sibilities over a number of years and Superintendent and Golf Pro have not really followed an or­ should work together much like the ganized structure. The jobs of the top executives of a large corpora­ general manager, superintendent and tion. Each person is skilled in his golf pro can often be made easier own area of expertise and each can when they know which committee contribute to the knowledge of the meetings they have to attend and others and to the success of the club. the people they have to report to Communication is an important within the club. factor to consider in golf course man­ The general manager is usually re­ agement. Keeping people informed of sponsible to one member of the what is taking place out on the golf regarding the golf course can be executive committee which in most course is the key to communication. handled by the general manager or cases is the Club President, for inter­ The general manager and golf pro golf pro as long as they have been preting and applying club policies. usually see most of the members at a informed by the course superinten­ The club budgets from the various club on any given day before the dent and given some answers to departments come under the super­ superintendent does, and if there are questions that club members would vision of the general manager. any complaints regarding the golf usually ask. The operation of a golf club is a course often most members will go Another important factor to con­ very serious business that requires to the general manager or golf pro sider under communication would trained professionals like the ma­ because of their accessibility of work­ be the committee and management nagement team of the General Man­ ing out of one location. In most organization and the reporting re­ ager, Course Superintendent and cases small problems or complaints lationships within the club. Some Golf Pro. Employee Relations by Thom Charters What makes a golf course as good as it can be? of course, be rewarded both financially and psycholo­ Obviously there are many contributing factors: gically to become loyal, valued employees. Quite sim­ equipment, irrigation, fertilizer and chemicals, to ply, we must be good employers to extect the best em­ name but a few, and the importance of each will ployees, otherwise we will not compete in today's vary from one course to another. This is true, due to highly competitive job market. We require quality per­ the unique combination of soil characteristics, man­ sonnel to provide golfers with the quality product they agement history, player's desires and financial posi­ expect. You must have a strong nucleus of full-time tion of each course. For these reasons it is unfair, if and full-time seasonal staff who will set positive exam­ not impossible, for a lay person to compare mainte­ ples for the seasonals. nance programs. To do this we must nurture an atmosphere and at­ However, courses do share one crucial, common titude that tells an employee he is important to us and element — wage expenses that account for the ma­ that we are a conscientious employer. To be sure, there jority of their maintenance budgets. Whether it's a are costs involved, but the return on the investment three-man or thirty-man operation, people make de­ would be significant. cisions and perform tasks that ultimately determine How can this be achieved? I believe there are two how close to its potential a golf course can be main­ primary necessities. You must create a positive work tained. environment. This will be determined largely by the In the past, golf course employees have been personality of the Golf Course Superintendent and his viewed as seasonal, unskilled labourers. While these relationship with his staff. To support him in this en­ adjectives may have applied at one time, they are in­ deavour, a functional maintenance shop with appropriate for most positions in this age of golf adequate staff areas should be provided. Furthermore, course management. little perks such as uniforms, educational incentives, I believe the golf industry is at a critical stage. Playing written compliments and a staff social event could go conditions have been improved significantly during the a long way to developing that environment. last ten years and they cannot be maintained with mir­ Regarding wages, I don't presume to know what rors. The complexities of routine maintenance alone rates are adequate for different areas of the province, demand dependable, well-trained employees. Today's but I would suggest that you determine the wage greensmen and women must operate a myriad of ex­ levels of municipal or landscape company employees pensive equipment, recognize the slightest flaws in who perform similar tasks. While you're at it, don't performance, be safety conscious, aware of golf forget to consider medical benefits and bonuses that etiquette, show consideration for golfers and fellow may accompany those positions. staff members and above all, demonstrate a commit­ If these factors are considered and acted upon, they ment to excellence. will, when combined with consistent supervision, While it is rare to find anyone who exhibits all of develop better, more committed employees. In return, these abilities and qualities, most can be encouraged your golf course gets better value for its money. and/or trained to meet your expectations. They must, Get to know your Golf Course Superintendent. . . Your silent playing partner What Did You Successful Negotiations Really Mean? by Mark Hagen Although both approaches have had their place in the negotiation (an abbreviated list of frequently Whenever people exchange process, the collaborative approach used terms of appraisal and some ideas with the intent of changing is generally more successful since unlikely interpretations) relationships, or whenever they both parties have the opportunity to confer for agreement, they are ne­ satisfy their financial and psycholog­ gotiating. What makes for success­ ical needs and obligations. 1) "Exceptionally well qualified" ful negotiations is the ability of both Some basic Do's and Don'ts Meaning - has committed no blun­ parties to recognize the inherent should be kept in mind when work­ ders to date. needs of each other and work to­ ing together for a smooth, satisfac­ wards that end. The negotiating tory settlement. process, which is a two-way street, 2) "Quick Thinker" DO: Meaning - offers plausible excuses happens every day — at home, in - Prepare thoroughly for negotia­ for errors the workplace and the boardroom. tions. Know what you want and If you are personally applying for a how to achieve it. Put it in writing. salary increase or if you are justify­ - Make the negotiating issue clear 3) "Zealous Attitude" ing an employee's wage, human to both parties. Meaning - argumentative behavioral traits and their negotiat­ - Clarify any assumptions. ing skills become strongly apparent. - Work slowly and orderly through Understand and use them so that presentations. both sides are content with an 4) "Tactful in dealing with super­ - Bargain in good faith and play agreement once the negotiations iors" fair. Meaning - knows when to keep are completed. - Listen carefully to others. There are three basic types of mouth shut - Carry out your negotiations where Negotiators: The Novice, The Com­ both parties are comfortable and petent and The Complete. The relaxed. Novice will present his requests in a 5) "Approaches difficult problems - Solve problems together, sell the very one-sided manner. He may get with logic" benefits of long term benefits and what he is after through hard-drive Meaning - finds someone else to trust. techniques, but in the long run will do the job - Follow through on all agree­ lose trust and co-operation with the ments. other party. The Competent Negotiator rec­ DON'T 6) "Expresses himself well" - Rush negotiations and end up ognizes that there are at least two Meaning - likes to talk making a bad deal. Take a recess sides to a negotiation. This person is willing to "give a bit to get a bit", and reconvene when ready. a trade-off process. - Snowball people with information 7) "Demonstrates Leadership abi­ The most successful negotiators in your opening remarks and then lities" are the Complete Negotiators. These sit there. Stay involved in the Meaning - has a loud voice people recognize both sides of a discussion. problem situation and are willing to - Be intimidated by others' strange offer solutions. Their involvement behaviour or their dominance, or 8) "Shows exceptionally good and concern adds credibility to their position. judgment" negotiating requests. - Allow personal emotions to cloud Meaning - lucky Negotiations can progress along a your perception of the issue at competitive or a collaborative vein. In hand. the competitive mode negotiations Whether negotiating a detailed 9) "Good sense of humor" start with tough demands, they are contract, or a simple salary adjust­ Meaning - laughs at bad jokes very emotional and very few conces­ ment, remember that the interests of sions are given. Collaborative negoti­ your golf course are at stake. ations are based on trust, and the Through honest, bilateral negotiat­ 10) "A very fine employee of great understanding of the needs of the ing, both parties can win, and in the value to the company" individuals. They are not necessarily process, improve the atmosphere Meaning - gets to work on time. based on money or material objects that is conducive to improving alone. course conditions. The Grass isn't Always Greener by Neil Acton Professional turfgrass science and maintenance have ways to bentgrass, make sure you secure your bent­ done admirably well in keeping up with an ever-de­ grass seed prior to doing anything drastic. Turfgrass manding golf population. As our golfers travel more, seed shortages, particularly bentgrass, have plagued enjoying numerous golf courses in the process, they the industry the past few years. often return home with newfound expectations of Most every golfer expects his golf ball to stop dead what maintenance improvements they would like to once it hits the green surface. It doesn't seem to matter see implemented at their home clubs. how they hit the ball (probably a Surlyn cover), or how Financial factors aside, there are many reasons why deep the grass was where they hit the ball. What certain maintenance practices employed successfully at seems to matter to them the most is how much water the golf course down the street may well prove disas­ the green received last night. Should the ball fail to trous if implemented at your club. come to an abrupt stop, that blasted superintendent My first example is an obvious one, that being green didn't water the green enough. FALSEI! speed. Many golfers are under the assumption that the First, let's discuss the golfer. Fewer than 5% of golf­ superintendent simply lowers the height of cut on the ers strike the ball properly to create backspin. These greensmowers in the morning and presto! — Augusta same golfers also use Balata balls which spin faster, National greens. Oh, if it were only true, we superin­ thus creating more spin. This minority also hits the tendents might be able to spend a little more time with majority of their shots from short fairway turf where no our families. The truth of the matter is quite another grass will come between his clubface (utilizing those story. square grooves to the utmost) and the golfball. If these Fast, smooth greens are developed over time and people can't stop the ball, then let's look at problems kept that way with diligent expertise. To stress the other than insufficient water. turfgrass plant to that degree, all factors affecting turf­ grass growth and development must be suitable. Are the greens .constructed properly with the correct Turfgrass variety, root zone medium, irrigation capabil­ root zone medium? Are the greens angled to the gol­ ity, water quality, green size, microclimates, amount of fers or do they run away from them, quite a common play, as well as golfer acceptance are all factors which problem? (The transit will be required to ascertain this come quickly to mind. — you can't go by the eye.) Has play been kept off the Another consideration is the more frequent disrup­ greens at times of excessive moisture to avoid compac­ tions to play your golfers will experience. Fast greens tion? And last but not least, has the superintendent require more of everything — mowing coring, vertical been permitted to aerify the greens whenever he has mowing, topdressing, pesticides and syringing. Exces­ deemed it necessary or has there always been an "im­ sive green speeds witnessed on television or experi­ portant" tournament or competition to take priority? enced at 1 or 2 day Invitationals are usually only short­ The practice of hounding the superintendent to over­ term conditions. Such speeds maintained for any great water the greens to accept any shot, no matter how length of time may jeopardize long-term turfgrass poorly executed, just compounds the problem. Over­ health. watering not only weakens the turfgrass in general, it One of the more visually appealing as well as ag- also promotes further compaction. ronomically beneficial practices to appear in the past Golf courses are - living, growing environments few years has been the mowing of fairways with light which require constant monitoring and care. The Pro­ mowers and the subsequent removal of clippings. fessional Golf Course Superintendent is trained and This program is great if your turfgrass varieties are educated to act and react to subtleties and nuances correct and your fairways are smooth enough. How­ experienced on a daily basis on the golf course. His, or ever, this practice would not turn out very well if her, thoughts on any matter concerning the golf course adapted on predominantly Kentucky bluegrass fair­ should be sought and heeded. Their goals are the ways. Even the dwarf varieties of Kentucky bluegrass same as yours — that is, to provide the best possible cannot withstand sustained cutting heights below playing conditions and surroundings with available re­ inch. The bentgrasses have excelled in this area. Even sources. if your club is prepared to level and reseed your fair­ After all, he is your silent playing partner. REMEMBER April is the month when the green returns to the course . . . and to Revenue Canada. The Role of Education Today by Gord Nimmo CGCS 1 first became involved in golf States, graduates are entering the regular car and tractor engines and course maintenance in 1969, as a workplace trained in modern tech­ diesel engines. On top of this the summer student at a private Toronto nology to be technicians to superin­ bulk of the equipment has gone to golf club. The grounds crew con­ tendents. Feedback is also used to hydraulics. All this is in addition to sisted of a superintendent, one evaluate the research. keeping breakdown, parts and stock mechanic, four or five seasonal Golf courses can now hire, from records. It is not uncommon for a workers from New Brunswick community colleges, students train­ mechanic to have a helper or trainee. whose education ranged from grade ed for golf course operations. They Financial records must be kept on 2 to 8, three or four university stu­ come trained in the use of chain­ gas use, labour, equipment and dents and for the first time a Univer­ saws, tree pruners, push and riding supplies. A continual update on sity graduate hired to be a full time mowers as well as the proper main­ government assisted training prog­ assistant superintendent. tenance upkeep of that equipment. rams should be kept. Training was done by putting a Most imporant of all, though, is that Working budgets over $600,000 new fellow with an older, experi­ they usually have their own spraying are not uncommon, and when you enced fellow. Only the superinten­ licence. This is not a requirement, but add capital to that, three-quarters of dent had a spray license and all you they have better respect and under­ a million a year is easily reached. Re­ were told was to wash before you stand the need for safe use of chem­ sponsibility rests on the superinten­ ate. icals and safety equipment. When dent and his staff. But this is a turf The longer your years of service, operators know the dangers to their man — how does he handle it? the more you got to drive the equip­ own health, they are much more Education and designating responsi­ ment, not just the push the mowers cleaner and cautious. bility to well-trained employees are or hand rake the traps. Irrigation was Irrigation systems are now at the his means to accomplish this goal. a simple, quick coupler turf sprinkler computerized stage. Operators must No longer can the bulk of the work and maybe some pop ups around be familiar with programming it pro­ force be hired through Manpower the greens. A course mechanic was perly, and new training is required. and the golf course not be affected. a small engine handyman who had To some people this is very intimidat­ This point of this article is not to to learn to sharpen the mowers in ing, but once educated on how it put down the past, it is to show how the winter. Budgets at private clubs functions can save both money and the damands of today's courses have around Toronto were getting up to­ grass. increased the need for more educa­ ward the $200,000 range. The golf course mechanic is the tion, not just at the superintendents' Today in the 80's, superintendent's center of the maintenance depart­ or assistant level, but the whole staff. associations that were formed fifty ment. Before and even now on small The end result is a safer, cost-effi­ and sixty years ago have become budget clubs, superintendents are cient, well groomed golf course and, very aware of the need for education asked to do both jobs. Equipment hopefully, greater respect for the and work in close relationship with advances have caused the job to be­ people who are the backbone of Universities and Colleges. Through­ come more complex. The mechanic every golf club. out both Canada and the United is now asked to know small engines. Tom Mascaro, president of West Point Twenty Years Ago Today Products, was the guest speaker and George Darou was the host. OGSA dues were $15.00 for superin­ by Barry Endicott tendents and $25.00 for associates. In 1968, Dave Gourlay was the presi­ Tom Johnston repllaced John Steel as CGSA membership dues were $15.00 dent of the O.G.S.A. Keith Nesbit, Gord President of the C.G.S.A. and GCSAA dues were $150.00 Bill For­ Witteveen and Dave Moote were retir­ On January 8th there was a curling rester was made an Honourary member ing directors and Bob Moote was the meeting at Bayview Country Club with of the OGSA after retiring from 20-odd past president. Tom Unsworth moved Ed Ortlieb as host. The rink skipped by years at Weston Golf Club. Robbie from Clearstream C.C. in Oakville to St. Curly Endicott and comprising of John Robinson was also presented with an Thomas Golf Club and Bob Heron, assis­ Stoughton, Carl Wagner and Bernie Honourary membership on his retire­ tant at the Board of Trade Country Club Macdonald won the trophy defeating ment as Director of the Greens Section was appointed Superintendent at Bob Moote's rink. President Gourlay re­ of the RCGA. Brampton G.C. Dave Baker moved to ported on a possible Greens Chairman/ James Hickman, chartered member of Glen Cedar G.C. and Don Creed left Superintendent Day and a Pro/Superin- the OGSA recently passed away in Lon­ London for Orchard Hills Golf and tendent Day. On July 9 at Richmond Hill don. The CGSA held their first Turf Re­ Country Club in Michigan. Ian William­ Golf and Country Club the first Greens search Foundation meeting at the son moved to Castlegar Golf Club in B.C. Chairman/Superintendent Day was held. Skyline Hotel on March 19 in Toronto. COMING EVENTS March 6 - 10, 1988 Canadian Turfgrass Show Toronto, Ontario April 27, 1988 OGSA- Border Cities Beachgrove Golf and Country Club June 2, 1988 Spring Field Day, Galt Country Club Green is Beautiful Ontario Golf Superintendents Association