FALL 1991 GREEN An official publication of the Ontario Golf Superintendents Association is beautiful Protecting Groundwater QualityGuelph 60 large aerator has features proven to be ThemoreGAeffective than any competing tractor-pulled Keep your fairways in playing condition with the reciprocating fairway aerator on the market today. Cushman Core Destroyer attachment. Follow­ Features such as twin GATM30 aerating heads and a ing aeration, the Core Destroyer effectively pulver­ Cushman 327 liquid-cooled engine for its own source of izes cores at speeds up to 6 mph, leaving your power deliver greens-caliber aeration wherever it goes. fairways clean after aeration. The GA 60 is easy to hook up. One person can attach Fast, effective pulverization is achieved with a 5" or detach the ball hitch without bolts or tools. As with tined flail and a bedknife-type mulching bar which all of Cushman’s revolutionary 5th Wheel Implements, can be pivoted to change depth quickly—without tools. Full thatch separation and even dispersion its low 11 psi minimizes any ground compaction. helps return fairways to playable condition after Large enough to cover your fairways in record time, aeration. the GA 60 lets you aerate up to 1.3 acres per hour. Maximum Capable of handling up to 115,000 sq. ft. per coring depth is a deep 4", while you can vary the coring hour, the Cushman Core Destroyer is built to last pattern from 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" to 2 1/2" x 5". The Turf- with a heavy tubular steel frame and heavy gauge Truckster’s™ hydraulics allow the aeration unit to be processor heads. The full-floating heads are sup­ ported by front gauge wheels and full width roller. raised for easy transport and lowered for quick operation. Low ground pressure allows the Core Destroyer to be Quality large area aeration is a big order to fill, used on fine turf and greens. but the GA 60 delivers...and then some. in a Turf-Truckster" vehicle can pick Oneup,person load and dump aeration cores in the same time it takes three workers with shovels. In fact, with the Core Harvester attachment, you can pick up cores an average 7,000 sq. ft. green in about 15 minutes—two on to three times faster than you’ve ever done it before. G.C. DUKE EQUIPMENT LTD. 1184 Plains Road East Burlington, Ontario L7S 1W6 Burlington Area: (416) 637-5216 Toronto Area: (416) 827-7830 Ontario Golf PRESIDENT’S REPORT Superintendents This year's weather couldn't have been better for most golfers. All across the Association province the season seemed to start earlier than normal and it was rarely interrupted by summer storms. Even now BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 1991 as 1 write this report in October, golfers are still enjoying excellent fall golfing. Unfortunately for some Superintendents PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT PAST PRESIDENT this weather caused prolonged water MARK HAGEN RODTRAINORCGCS GORDON NIMMO CGCS shortages and extended disease West Haven Golf & C.C. Hamilton Golf and Sarnia Golf S Curling Club susceptibility. As the season draws to a Box 144, Hyde Park Country Club Limited 500 Errol Rd. W. conclusion I'm anxiously lookingforward London, Ontario 232 Golf Links Road Sarnia, Ontario to the upcoming seminars, conferences NOM 1Z0 Ancaster, Ontario N7V 1X7 and symposiums. Read on in this issue to Bus. (519) 641-2519 L9G2N5 Bus. (519) 336-0667 find out about the Ontario Turfgrass Res. (519)471-1188 Bus. (416) 648-1441 Res. (519) 332-1521 Symposium which our Association is co-sponsoring. Fax (416)648-4217 I would like to thank all the super­ Res. (519)631-4798 intendents and their clubs that generously hosted our OGSA tournaments. Thanks DIRECTORS again to Barry Britton, Ray Dlugokecki, the DeCorso’s, Barry Endicott and all whom hosted the many regional meetings. Let Editor Golf & Meetings Membership the Board of Directors know if your dub SIMON GEORGE BILL FACH ALEX LA BELLE would like to host a regional or provincial Oakville Golf Club Rosedale Golf Club Ltd. Carlton Golf & Yacht Club event. 1154 6th Line, Box 129 1901 Mt. Pleasant Road P.O. Box 162, R.R. #3 This will be my last report as OGSA Oakville, Ontario Toronto, Ontario Manotick, Ontario President for Green is Beautiful. 1 would L6T4Z5 M4N 2W3 K0A2N0 be hard pressed if 1 had to look back and Bus. (416)844-5796 Bus. (416)485-9742 Bus. (613)692-4054 pick the most memorable occassion while serving on the Board. The one thing that Res. (416)659-3160 Res. (416) 242-4534 Res. (613)826-3375 is quite clear to me is that the men and Fax (416)845-0096 women in this business are very dedicated Roster Public Relations & professionals willing to share their Secretary JOHN TAYLOR Communications expertise with their peers. BRUCE BURGER Twenty Valley G.C. MARK SCHNEIDER It has been a great privelege and Lakeview Golf Course 107 Ontario St. Beach Grove Golf & C.C. honour for me to have represented you as 1190 Dixie Road St. Catharines, Ontario 14134 Riverside Dr. E. President of this great Association. The Mississauga, Ontario Bus. (416) 562-4333 St. Clair Beach, Ontario term was quite enjoyable as 1 was blessed L5E2P4 Res. (416) 682-3516 N8N 1B6 with a very dedicated and talented Board Bus. (416) 278-1971 Bus. (519) 979-8134 of Directors. The support and cooperation Res. (519) 621-1138 Director Res. (519) 979-8134 of our membership was equally reward­ ing. Several longterm Board memberswill IAN BOWEN be stepping aside to persue other Treasurer Res. (416)476-6523 interests and to allow new Directors with DAVEW.GOURLAY fresh ideas and enthusiasm to take charge. (C.G.C.S.) Director To these individuals and friends I would Eagle Creek Golf Club RICK SERRAO like to state publicly how proud 1 am to P.O. Box931,R.R#2 Res. (416)935-0522 have been able to work with them. I Dunrobin, Ontario appreciate their efforts and confidence in K0A IT0 the administration of Association Bus. (613)832-0477 business. Res. (613)836-4197 Enjoy your down time and 1 hope Fax (613) 832-0476 everyone will take advantage of the available educational programs. See you there! Office Secretary Mark Hagen CINDI CHARTERS President, OGSA (416) 233-8388 EXPRESS DUAL CANADIAN world’s finest automatic spin-grinder IRRIGATION Walking greens and trimmer mowers. CONSULTANTS Average sharpening times 4 to 10 minutes floor-to-floor. JACK AUSTIN R.R.1, Gormley Ontario LOH 1G0 Tel: (416) 841-7866 Fax: (416) 841-7867 BEETON Fax 416-729-2751 TORONTO 416-729-2921 1-416-364-8466 35 YEARS 1956 - 1991 By using Express Dual you won’t be missing out! NURSERIES LTD. Quality Bluegrass & Bent Grass • Better Playing Surface Complete Landscaping Service • Healthier Turf BOX 70, BEETON, ONTARIO LOG 1A0 • Less Irrigation • Less Turf Disease • Consistent Quality Cut These are not wild claims but actual reports to us from Turf Managers around the world. Mounted triplex greens units. Average sharpening times 3 to 10 minutes floor-to-floor. Over 90 Years of Growing Service Everett Nieuwkoop 330 Phillip St., RO. Box 144, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada N2J 3Z9 Telephone: (519) 886-0557 Fax: (519) 886-0605 A DIVISION OF C.J. MCDONALD CO. LTD. 29 ADVANCE ROAD TORONTO, ONTARIO M8Z 2S6 STEINER TRACTORS • US BATTERIES Express Dual Saves Time & Money. BRUCE MCDONALD • Reduce Bedknife Expense • Reduce Reel Expense R&R TURF PRODUCTS • Fewer Engine & Hydraulic Repairs (416) 236-1001 MELEX • NO LAPPING • 10 Year Warranty • Money Back Guarantee We can prove it with a FREE COST ANALYSIS! • SALES-ARRANGE A Available from: DEMO IN YOUR SHOP • CUSTOM GRINDING AND SKYWAY REPAIRS LAWN EQUIPMENT LIMITED • NEW MOBILE REEL 1067 Beach Boulevard SHARPENING Hamilton, Ontario Corrie Almack, P.Ag. • NEW EXPRESS DUAL Canada L8H 6Z9 RENTAL PROGRAM 416-545-5363 • FOR MORE ALMACK & ASSOCIATES (Fax) 416-545-2647 INFORMATION CALL OR BOX 256, CARLISLE, ONTARIO LOR 1H0 416-689-6174 (Ont.) 800-263-8606 WRITE TODAY FROM THE EDITOR As another golf season winds down, we can all look back at our successes even in what was probably one of the hottest and driest in 31 years, dry enough in fact that many courses ran out of water. The preservation of both water quality and quantity are now being very real concerns for our industry as well as the current issue of green space management. Congratulations to the CG.S. A. on their 2 5th anniversary celebrations and to all those involved in preparation for the TUrf Conference in Toronto. Have a great winter, take time to attend some of the educational programs offered. Simon George Editor ECONOMICAL POLE FRAME BUILDINGS FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS . . . BUILDING SYSTEMS LTD. RURAL & COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS Call collect to Jack or Rick Brenzil for a FREE ESTIMATE . . . (416) 772-3551 (416) 388-6865 Over 30 Years Experience! The grass off ’92 with a degree in excellence From parks to playgrounds... football fields to golf courses ... land reclamation to sod production... home lawns to country estates, you can count on Oseco turfgrass cultivars for top performance. Need a specially blended mixture? Talk to the turfseed specialist from Oseco. OsecoTurf Seeds PO. Box 219. Brampton.Ontario L6V 2L2 Telephone 416 846 5080 • Fax 416 846 6909 Michael J. Kernaghan John W. Gravett Professional Turfgrass Educational 45 Walman Drive Consulting Services Guelph, Ontario N1G 4G8 (519) 767-1611 Fast In. Fast Out. We move trees—yours or ours. Tree spades: 60,84 and 94 inches. We can supply almost any size and species you require. ROD TRAINOR Call Phil Dickie Superintendent, Hamilton Golf and Country Club Limited FAST FOREST INC. Receiving Plague front Mark Hagen, OGSA President for appreciation in 270 Shoemaker Street hosting 1991 Ontario Amateur Golf Championships. Kitchener, Ontario N2E 3E1 Tel: (519) 748-610 FAX: (519) 748-6626 Little things do count. Ultimately, they add up to a big thing. proof electric cabinets. They cost more, For instance, take prefabricated pump but they’ll last longer and provide bet­ stations for golf course irrigation. All ter service. pump stations are alike, aren’t they? We fabricate our motor mounting They take water from a source and pump plates 5/8” thick. More than others to it to an irrigation system. Right? minimize vibration and deflection - so they’ll wear longer. Well, little things do count. Though other prefabricated pump We use only plated rust retardant bolts. A little thing, yes. But bolts hold stations may look like a Carroll Childers - because they do their best to copy the whole station together - and ours will last longer. Carroll Childers - we build our pump These little things that no one else but stations to last longer, to operate longer, Carroll Childers Co. do add up to a big with lower maintenance, And we do it thing - MONEY! by adding up the little things that count. When we build it better, your in­ Like: vestments lasts longer. And, you spend Each pump in a Carroll Childers less time and money on maintenance. prefabricated pump station discharges Before you choose a prefabricated pump separately and independently into the station, check out all the things that con­ surge control tank. tribute to a quality pump station. Then, Call us today for more information We design the shut-off valve between check out Carroll Childers Co. pumps and surge tanks so maintenance Carroll Childers Co. built the first or replacement is easier and quicker. prefabricated pump station 25 years ago 54 Hernshaw Crescent We build our station controls - we with simplicity, innovation and long- Toronto, Ontario M9C 3M4 don’t buy them. And we build them lasting quality in mind. We still build Telephone: (416) 621-1414 better. We use Allen Bradley moisture­ them that way today. 22 Spring Street REPART MANUFACTURING LTD. TURF Guelph, Ontario DRAIN N1E 1Z8 Guelph (519) 763-3130 BENCHES, GARBAGE CONTAINERS, MARKERS INC. Ottawa (613) 564-9706 EQUIPMENT & IRRIGATION PARTS RED-MAX DISTRIBUTOR GEOFFREY CORLETT DAVID DECORSO Supervisor, Renovation ROB DAVIS, SALES MANAGER MARK LUCKHARDT JIM SHERIDAN PAGER (416) 378-6584 Supervisor, Drainage Ottawa Region OFFICE (416) 823-2900 1110 WELWYN DRIVE FAX (416) 278-5384 MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO L5J 3J3 DRAINAGE • RENOVATION TRADE IN YOUR DEERE/EZE-GO OR ANY OTHER OLD BO BO FOR A CUSHMAN WORKHORSE. LO LO PRICES AND BIG TRADE-INS ARE AVAILABLE WHILE QUANTITIES LAST. BUY NOW - USE IT NOW - NO PAYMENTS TIL SPRING 1992 W/O TRADE W/TRADE $5,995.00 $4,995.00 Strong, Durable, Economical. Designed strictly for hard work, the GT-1 is no converted golf cart. Compare and The Cushman Runabout is a vehicle that you'll find that the GT-1 carries a heavier load with more power, greater reliability, nearly every turf-care operation could and superior comfort. Its design and feature make the GT-1 a perfect all-purpose benefit from. More than good basic vehicle for your general maintenance and frequent hauling duties. Proof that transportation, it’s productivity on Cushman gives you maximum value for your dollar. wheels! The special price above includes the pedal start and the manual dump bed Specify the Runabout with options. The GT-1 is powered by the 8 hp, reliable, 4 cycle, Kohler gas engine. Cushman's proven 22 h.p. gas engine, Have a Duke rep demonstrate to you why the Cushman GT-1 is truly the best and you’ll have a vehicle that can take a vehicle of its kind on the market today. crew of two out into the field with up to 1600 lbs. of tools, equipment, sand, sod or what-have-you. It’s the ideal way to move walk- behind maintenance equipment - aerators, mowers, sprayers and more - from spot to spot, quickly and efficiently. The Runabout has stay-cool seat cushionsand non-glare dashboard. It can be equipped with Rahn box blade or diamond leveler accessary for perfect grooming of ball diamonds or other similar grounds. W/O TRADE $7,895.00 W/TRADE $6,895.00 G.C Duke Equipment Ltd 1184 Plains Road East Burlington Area: (416)637-5216 Burlington, Ontario L7S IW6 Toronto Area: (416) 827-7830 Ontario Turfgrass Symposium The first annual Ontario Turfgrass symposium will be held January groups. All delegates have the opportunity and are free to switch 7-9, 1992, at the University of Guelph. The Symposium is the first between talks of the concurrent sessions. Of particular interest of its kind to address the collective needs of all sectors of to the Golf Course Sector will be the following speakers. Ontario's turfgrass industry, including lawn care, sports turf and Dr. Michael Villani will explain Insect Monitoring Techniques golf courses. The Symposium will consist of plenary and for Golf Courses. Dr. John Street will discuss methods of Poa concurrent sessions, a trade show, presentations by turf experts Annua Control. John Gall and Wayne Rath will follow this talk with from North America and England and industry specific halfday their experience undertaking such a project. Dr. Jack Eggens will seminars. update the audience on "Cultural Practices for golf courses.’’ The The first day of the Symposium will consist of concurrent GTL faculty and staff will be presenting numerous research morning and afternoon in depth seminars. Dr. John Street from updates throughout the morning. Ohio State University will speak on "The Agronomics and Dr. Tom Hsiang, from the University of Guelph will give a "Plant Economics of Fertilizers.'' A workshop in Grub Identification and Pathology Update.'' Terry Yamada from the RCGA, Greens Control will be conducted by Dr. Michael Villani from Cornell Section will talk about "A Positive Look at Environmental Issues University. "Pesticides In The Environment'' will be addressed on The Golf Course." "Pesticidesand Golf Course Development by Dr. Gerry Stephenson from the University of Guelph. Dr. Issues’’ will be presented by Mr. Ric Lindgreen, a staff lawyer with Lynda Pinnington, of Pinnington Training and Development will the Canadian Environmental Law Society. Mr. Charlie Passios, lead a seminar geared towards customer service and public Director with the GCSAA will talk about being "Pro Active relations entitled "What The Public Expects.'' James Creighton, Regarding Environmental Issues.’’ " Playing Quality of Golf Course from resource Health and Safety Services will review what Turf as Affected; by Construction, Irrigation and Nutrition." will employees and employers should know about labour laws, be discussed by Mike Conaway of the Sports Turf Institute, workers compensation, occupational health and safety, WHMIS, Bingley, England. Dr. Bob Shearman, University of Nebraska will and much more. Peter Simpson, Executive Vice-President and speak on the "Role of Potassium in Stress Tolerence.” Dr. Lee Director of Public Affairsand Research, Toronto Home Builders Burpee, former Director of the GTI. will return to talk about new Association will give some tips on "Dealing With Time Media.'' "Creeping Bentgrass Research." The day will conclude with the The Superintendent of Agricultural Operations, Riverside Annual OGSA meeting. California, Stephen Cockerham and several other key growers The turfgrass industry is always changing, so take advantage will talk about Sod Production. Dr. Lynda Pinnington will be of this excellent opportunity to acquire new information and leading a second seminar on "Managing and Motivating Your knowledge. If you require further information or a registration People.'' This will be a condensed talk from her successful week­ kit contact; Continuing Education Office, University of Guelph long seminar she has been presenting at the University of Guelph (519) 767-5000. for the past few years. The day will conclude with a plenary session, with short addresses from Paul Dermott, Dr. Brian Segal, The Hon. Elmer Buchanan, Dr. Chris Hall and Dr. Clay Switzer. The keynote speaker for the conference is Dr. Elliot Roberts PESTICIDE SAFETY from the Lawn Institute Pleasant Hills, Tennessee. His TRAINING SEMINARS presentation is "Turf Stands Tall Among The Trees an Environmental Perspective.'' The Lawn Institute has determined ....Introductory Land Class 1 & 3 through research conducted in recent years that turfgrasses Licence Preparation Courses..., indeed do "stand tall'' amongst the trees. Both the lawn grasses February 1 & 2/92 - London and trees are important in the creation and maintenance of February 22 & 23/92 - Toronto environmental quality. And, when attention is focussed on water March 28 & 29/92 - Guelph use, carbon dioxide assimilation and oxygen release to the April 25 & 26/92 - Ottawa atmosphere, both present major strengths and also some weaknesses. REGISTER EARLY! The Trade show opens on day two and day Three in the University’s 4O,OOOft.2 TWin Pad Arena. It will be a good LIMITED ENROLLMENT! opportunity for delegates to meet Ontario’s local suppliers of turf equipment and supplies. For more information contact: For the next Two days the speaker's program splits into three concurrent session; Golf Course, Lawn and Landscape and 45 Walman Drive, Sports TUrf. Speakers will be directing their talks towards that GUELPH, Ontario. N1G4G8 specific interest group. The speakers and topics being presented were suggested by the executive of each of the co-sponsoring (519) 767-1611 Water Restrictions in Ontario On October 21, 1991 the OGSA participated in the first of six Coupled with the relatively low amount of fresh water in the workshops to help draft a Water Efficiency Strategy for Ontario. populated areas is the extremely high usage rates in Ontario. On For a native Ontarian it is difficult to believe that we are average in Ontario each person uses approximately 300 liters per running short of water. Atthe initial workshop some startling facts day as compared to only 150 liters per person in Europe. This were drawn to my attention from the Ministry of Natural water use rate is projected to increase 2-3 % per year assuming Resources concerning the water situation here in Ontario. It is that current trends continue. We as Golf Course Superintendents important to give some of the reasons why the Ministry of Natural can appreciate the additional water usage rates as a result of the Resources along with the other 12 ministries and government global warming. Is it merely a coincidence that the summer agencies are implementing a Water Efficiency Strategy for months notably in 1988 and to a degree in 1991 were the hottest Ontario. We have all heard of the global state of available water and driest on record? through the media. In Eastern Europe for example the water is Realizing this dilemma what can be expected of the Ontario so polluted in some areas that even industry can not use it. Golf Course Superintendent once this Water Efficiency Strategy Worldwide, there is a growing concern over the degradation in is adopted through the Province of Ontario. First off you can the health of the environment. Examples include the poor tree expect that this policy will recommend a user fee structure for growth in the Black Forest, loss of the rain forests and destruction all golf courses. Course monitoring will definitely come into effect of soils in the Amazon Basin, and here at home, the pollution in as withdrawals will be scrutinized. You will not be allowed to take the Great Lakes. It is a rarity in Southern Ontario that swimming more water than you need. You will have to return the water from is allowed during the summer months as beaches continue to be where you took it and in the same condition. Water restriction closed for health reasons. devices will be installed on faucets and washroom facilities in The global pressures are mounting. The world population, your workshop, clubhouses and homes. As we are currently using currently at five billion, is expected to double sometime in the an unsustainable water rate in Ontario it is currently proposed next century. The population of Ontario is currently at nine that water users in Ontario decrease their consumption by up to million and will rise to twelve million by the year 2011. Meanwhile, 50% by the year 2020. In order to abide by these restrictions the the limits of our resource base and the capacity of our physical water efficiency use rates on golf courses will be reduced environment to absorb wastes has become increasingly dramatically. Future golf course designs will have to allow for apparent. Concerns now arise regarding the earth's limits to better water usage by implementing a more target orientated environmental sustainability. The Love Canal, Chernobyl, concept, use more drought tolerant turfgrasses, water collection Bhopal, Kuwait, and the Exxon Valdez are all part of the modern systems, water efficient irrigation systems, low precipitation environmental disasters that we will be leaving for future heads etc. in order to comply with the reduction of water as generations to clean up or live with. Perhaps the time has arrived proposed by the Water Efficiency Policy For Ontario. As more to begin shaping the future with decisions and actions that will information is provided to us through the workshops I will support a strong economy and protect the environment. disseminate this information to you the Golf Course The worlds quantity of fresh water is comparatively scarce. Superintendent. The worlds water supply consists of the following: 97.2% is salt water, 2.1 % is polar ice and glaciers, 0.6% underground and 0.1 % in lakes, rivers, soil and the atmosphere. Canada has 20% of the world 's surface freshwater stocks, most of which are shared with the U.S. (i.e. the Great Lakes). Ontario contains about one half of the basin of the great lakes which by themselves constitute 18% of the world's freshwater resources. This fact alone would lead one to assume that we here in Ontario are water rich. Unfortunately this is not the case in point. Almost all of the water AQUAMASTER in the Great Lakes was deposited from the last ice age and only ONE STOP SHOP FOR GOLF 1 % of the volume is replaced by annual run-off. This means that IRRIGATION SUPPLIES only 1 % of the volume of this system can be used on a sustainable basis. Also much of the water in Ontario's smaller lakes and rivers are not located near the large populated areas. Hunter Ontario's extensive water system of rivers drains the IRRIGATION EQUIPMENT province primarily north to Hudson’s Bay and east through the HEAD OFFICE LONDON BRANCH Great Lakes system to the St. Lawrence River. This distribution 1 Guardsman Road 1200 Wonderland Rd. S., of renewable water supplies is in contrast with the distribution Thornhill, Ontario Bldg.2, Unit 10, of population in Ontario. L3T6L2 London, Ontario N6L1A8 416-881-4794 519-652-0327 Fax 416-881-7922 Fax 519-652-0327 1-800-268-6826 The costs of groundwater contamination By William B. O’Niel and Robert S. Raucher William B. O'Neil is senior economist with the U.S. areal extent of the pollution, and its expected supplies for about half of the U.S. population Environmental Protection Agency, 401 M Street, S.W., path of movement. This information tells and about 90 percent of the rural population. Washington D.C. 20460. Roberts. Rancher is a principal policymakers what can be done to respond to In addition, it provides 40 percent of irrigation with RCG/Hagler, Inc., Bailly, Inc., P.O. Drawer O, the incident. The basic alternatives include water and 26 percent of industrial demand, Boulder, Colorado 80306-1906. This paper represents some combination of the following: excluding cooling water. Moreover, as a major the views of the authors alone and should not be interpreted ► Contain the original source. surface water development alternatives as a statement by the U.S. Environmental Protection ► Treat the contaminated water before use. become fully developed, ground water be­ Agency or RCG/Hagler, Bailly, Inc. comes the major source for development of ► Remediate the water in the aquifer before new supplies of potable water. use. Municipal use value. Although municipali­ ► Provide an alternative dean water supply. RESOURCES are valued primarily for the ties account for only 10 percent of water with­ services they provide. For example, water can be ► Continue use of the contaminated water and drawn in the United States, such uses are used to irrigate cropland, to wash clothes, and suffer the health, welfare, or ecological generally thought to be the most important to drink. The amount people are willing to pay effects. and highly valued. Municipal supplies provided for clean water depends upon the nature of ► Forego use of the water and lose the valuable for residential use as well as for firefighting and these uses and the availability of substitute services it once provided. other outdoor uses. In most systems, water resources that could provide the same services. The next step is to assess how the water rates are not set in competitive markets; often Also, resources not being used currently may had been used and how it could be used after rates are not designed to cover the costs of have value to people who expect to use them in taking one of the response strategies listed. For development, treatment, and delivery. As a the future or who wish to ensure that they are example, even after treatment, some residual result, it has been difficult to conduct statistical available for others to use. Finally, there may be health risk may exist, compared with the studies of the willingness to pay for potable those willing to pay for preservation of rare "no-contamination” baseline. In this case, the supplies of municipal water. resources merely to ensure their continued extra cost of treatment should be added to the A survey of literature on water demand existence, regardless of plans for actual use. value of the residual health effects to determine reveals that the value of water, at the margin, Using this reasoning, economists refer to the the cost of the contamination incident. varies widely across different regions (3). In a sources of value for a resource as use, option, From an efficiency standpoint, the best survey of how much consumers would be and existence or bequest values. strategy, or combination of strategies, is the one willing to pay to avoid a 10 percent reduction If a valuable resource is damaged or lost, with the lowest overall extra cost. The extra cost in water use, the answers (in 1988 dollars) then the cost of that event can be determined of this chosen "cost-effective" strategy ranged from about $28 per acre-foot in by examining the change in the services represents the cost of the contamination Toronto, Canada, to about $142 per acre-foot available from the resource. In response to the incident. That is the opportunity cost borne by in Raleigh, North Carolina. The upper end of loss or damage, the services can be restored by society in the event of contamination. this range is equivalentto about $5 per year per the least expensive alternative methods or the With this conceptual framwork in mind, it household. For larger reductions, however, services can be foregone. The extra cost of the is clear that two general factors together willingness to pay to avoid the reduction is least expensive response option represents the determine the cost of ground water contamina­ much greater. tion: (1) the ways in which water was being used Looking at the actual amounts paid, 90 cost of the adverse event. or was expected to be used in the future and (2) percent of households in the United States pay In this context, the words "use" and the physical characteristics of the setting that less than $110 per year for water service. We "service” include indirect effects as well as direct constrain the responses available to regain lost can draw two lessons from this data. First, services provided by the affected resource. For uses or to present related damages to human households can conserve a small amount of example, groundwater may serve as a drinking health and the environoment. water without too much loss in welfare. Second, water supply and as a recharge source for a wetland. Because the wetland provides The use value of groundwater large, permanent reductions in water use could services, such as recreation, wildlife habitat, fish We begin by reviewing the uses of ground­ be very disruptive for the typical household. As spawning grounds, and lower-level food chain water because it is the actual or expected use of a result, in cases where contamination affects functions, it has other values as well as its value the resource that primarily gives it value. In some a large part of the water supply, reduction in as drinking water. The additional cost of cases, there may be no acceptable way to re­ quantity supplied would not be feasible and restoring these functions or the loss of those store the lost services of ground water. In these remediation or replacement of the resource functions is part of the "cost” of groundwater cases, the cost of the incident is equal to the net would probably be the preferred strategy. contamination. benefits of the aquifer when it was clean. There Industrial use value. Industrial use accounts In theory these principles can be applied are a number of use values that may be lost due for about 10 percent of water withdrawals in in a straightforward manner. For any ground­ to contamination. In most cases, however, cost the United States, with the dominant use being watercontamination incident, the first step is to effective remedies are available, and the added for cooling. Because many industrial processes gather information on the physical character­ cost of these remedies represents the cost of the are not sensitive to the quality of the water, istics of the event, including the type of cont­ incident rather than the use value itself. contamination may not preclude such uses. aminant, its concentration in the aquifer, the Groundwater is the source of domestic But, in the event that water use must be curtailed, recycling and reuse costs range from Massachusetts, suggests that 40 years of natural rough but practical approach is to use the cost- about $ 10 to $ 100 per acre-foot. In special uses, cleansing still would not result in water that of-illness approach for valuing non-lethal recycling and extra quality treatments may push meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency effects. Costs include direct medical treatment the cost up to $400 per acre-foot (3). (EPA) drinking water standards (8). costs, whether covered by insurance or not; the Irrigation use value. Some of the most The second aspect of ground water that in­ value of lost work; and the value of lost leisure productive farmland in the country is irrigated fluences the cost of contamination is the fact that time. These costs vary according to the nature land in the West. Many researchers have it’s underground. Although the science of of the illness and its severity, duration, assessed the value of extra crop yield hydrogeology has advanced greatly in recent possibility of recurrence, and other factors. attributable to irrigation. These "marginal value years. It still is very difficult and costly to identify Pain and suffering represent additional costs products" for water vary widely in value from the exact area and expected path of a con­ that are difficult to place monetary figures on. near zero to more than $100 per acre-foot, tamination plume. In such cases, choosing a Containment and remediation costs. Source depending upon the crop and the geography of cost-effective and protective response strategy control can mean stopping an activity like the area. The wide range of values clearly shows is a serious dilemma. In a case where agricultural chemical use; removing a source, that water is not marketed and transported contamination is not detected, the cost will be such as an underground storage tank; injecting easily to the point of its highest valued use. in the form of adverse human health effects and barrier walls underground around a source; Rather, it is used in activities of very different ecological damages. sealing the surface area above a source to productivity, and these "inefficient" uses are A third consideration is that groundwater reduce water infiltration and leaching; or protected by legal and institutional barriers. is no different than any other water. Therefore, controlling water pumping and reinjection to As water markets mature, however, we can treatment or replacement of contaminated prevent groundwater from flowing out of the expect to see only higher valued water uses. water often may represent the cost-effective area. Costs for containment action can vary Also, we can expect the price to reflect a more strategy for managing the event. widely depending upon site characteristics, uniform marginal value. For example, in some Cost of contamination type of contaminant, and extent of the plume. parts of the West, farmers and ranchers are If contamination of groundwater is not For example, analysis of containment paying about $30 per acre-foot for irrigation detected, then adverse health and ecological options at a hypothetical 10-acre landfill water. As water rights become more effects may result. For example, contamination included $4 million for sealing the bottom. $1.4 transferable, municipal users will bid up the of surface water by groundwater recharge can million for installing a grout curtain, and price, and less water will be used in irrigation. damage spawning grounds, upset food chains, $200,000 for an injection/extraction barrier (9). and affect habitat in many ways that affect The average cost of remedial action at Option value and existence value biodiversity and other measures of ecosystem Superfund sites has been estimated to be $8 Besides actual use value, water supplies health. These costs are difficult to quantify, million (9). In many cases, the cost of providing also may be valued for potential future use. although they can be severe. alternative water supplies until remediation is There is much public interest in protecting When contamination of a drinking water complete must be added to other costs to groundwater for the future. A study by Edwards supply is detected, a response strategy can be determine the total cost of the contamination (1) assessed residential willingness in Cape Cod fashioned from available options. Detection incident. to pay to protect potable groundwater from itself can be costly because of the need for Treatment. Effective removal of many possible nitrate contamination. The study monitoring wells and laboratory analysis. For contaminants can occur through central focused on several scenarios representing example, if a private well is threatened with treatment technologies in municipal systems or different levels of risk of future contamination. possible contamination from agricultural by point-of-entry/point-of-use technologies in The present value of protecting the aquifer chemicals, biannual testing would cost $ 100 to rural residences with private wells. The EPA ranged from $5 million to $2 5 million per 1,000 $300 per year. If larger areas are threatened, the Office of Drinking Water has gathered households. This represents a willingness to pay drilling of new monitoring wells may cost several information on costs of various treatment ranging from $500 to $2,500 per year per thousand dollars each, and more elaborate technologies in different-sized systems. Due to household for groundwater protection. sampling protocols may be necessary. economies of scale, unit costs generally are In summary, use and option values can be Adverse health effects. Although health lower in larger systems and highest in single­ viewed as an approximation of the cost of effects are a principal concern in cases of household point-of-use systems. contamination. Most contamination incidents undetected water contamination, there is Central treatment often is the least- can be managed at a low enough cost that uses significant uncertainty in any attempt to quantify expensive response to a contamination will not be foreclosed. and value such damages. Economic researchers incident. Such treatment can add several Finally, society may desire to protect have identified methods for measuring hundred dollars per year to the household cost groundwater as a resource with intrinsic value willingness to pay for reduced risk of adverse of water supply in very small systems and from separate from any desire to avoid the direct health effects across large populations. For $2 to almost $50 per year to the annual costs associated with contamination. Because example, observation of wage premiums paid to household bill in large systems. this existence value also is lost when workers in risky jobs has allowed inference of the Replacement. For large public water groundwater is contaminated, it may motivate money-risk trade-off. In addition, a variety of suppliers facing contamination of a small part even greater protection efforts. survey methods have been used to assess the of the total source supply, replacement of the Physical aspects of contamination subjective value of changes in such risks. A contaminated supply is often fairly inexpensive Three physical characteristics of ground survey of recent literature on the valuation of response strategy. Construction of new wells water are of particular importance when small changes in the risk of death due to such can provide water ranging in cost from a few considering cost. First, groundwater usually accidental causes as pollution suggests that the cents per 1,000 gallons in very large systems to moves very slowly through an aquifer. As a value of a "statistical life" saved ranges from $3 per 1,000 gallons in the smallest systems. A result, natural cleansing of an aquifer through $1 million to $7 million (2). new well for a single household can cost $ 5,000 recharge and dilution can take many years. A There is less empirical evidence on the to $7,000, depending upon diameter, depth, simulation study of a Superfund site in Woburn, value of avoiding nonlethal health effects. A and other site characteristics. Hookup of a Average treatment costs for groundwater systems System Size (no. households served) 25-100 5k-50k 25K-0 2 50 K-1M500k-1M Treatment Cost/1000 gal* Cost/household/yr^ Cost/1000 gal Cost/household/yr Cost/1000 gal Cost/household/yr 25-100 Disinfection $1.38 $175.00 $0.036 $ 4.00 $0.014 $ 2.00 GAC $1.71 $217.00 $0.17 $21.00 $0.085 $11.00 Multiple§ $5.70 $723.00 $0.70 $89.00 $0.44 $56.00 Note: Preliminary estimates provided by the Office of Drinking Water are subject to revision. * Costs are expressed in 1988 dollars. fAssumes use of 140 gallons/day/capita for all uses and 2.5 people/household. ¿GAC—granular-activated carbon. Multiple—disinfection, corrosion control, ion exchange, and GAC. household to a public system can cost $ 12,000 In comparing the costs and benefits of 2. Fisher, Ann, et al. 1989. The value of reducing risks or more, depending upon distance to the water prevention programs with those of remediation, of death: A note on new evidence. J. Policy Analysis and main and water payments (5). replacement, or treatment, it is essential to Manage. 8(1): 88-100. 3. Gibbons, Diana C. 1986. The economic value of water. adjust the cost/benefit analysis always should National cost estimates Resources for the Future, Washington, D.C. occur within an expected value framework. In 4. Hoehn, John P„ and David Walker. 1987 Measuring EPA prepared an assessment of the water addition, because costs and benefits likely occur the economic damages of groundwater contamination : The supply replacement cost due to groundwater at very different points in time, all values should case of nitrates. Staff paper. Dept. Agr. Econ., Mich. contamination potentially resulting from nine be discounted to the same point in time to make State Univ., East Lansing. types of major point sources (11). The total them comparable. 5. Nielson, Elizabeth G., and Linda K. Lee. 1987. The present value of resource damage from these magnitude and costs of groundwater contamination from While groundwater contamination occurs sources was estimated to exceed $28 billion. agricutural chemicals.Econ. Res. Serv., U.S. Dept. nationwide, each incident typically affects only This figure does not include costs for monitoring Agr., Washington, D.C. a small part of the relevant groundwater system. or management of groundwater contaminated 6. Raucher, Robert S. 1986. The benefits and costs of Because of the wide dispersion of many small policies related to groundwater contamination. Land by such nonpoint sources as agricultural events, the cost of each incident seems small. Econ. 62(1): 33-45. chemicals or urban runoff. Estimated national But as demand for potable water increases and 7. Sobotka and Co., Inc. 1983. The benefits of avoiding damages range from no cost for combustion of if at the same time contamination becomes groundwater contamination at two sites in the Biscayne hazardous waste to $8 billion for Superfund sites more widespread, the opportunities for finding Aquifer. Office Policy Analysis, U.S. Environ. and more than $15 billion for underground Protection Agency, Washington, D.C. storage tanks. On average, the study estimated alternative sources will decline and the extra 8. Spofford, Walter O., et al. 1989. Uncertainties in resource damages at $9.7 million for individual cost of contamination incidents will rise quickly. estimates of the costs and benefits of groundwater Superfund sites; $300,000to $400,000 each for State and regional authorities need to develop remediation: Results of a cost-benefit analysis Paper land disposal sites of various kinds; and $l 1,000 water supply plans for a reasonable long Qe89-15. Resources for the Future, Washington, each for underground storage tanks. The great planning horizon, as well as strategies to protect D.C. number of underground storage tanks accounts both current and future supply sources. 9. The Conservation Foundation. 1987. Ground water protection. Washington, D.C. for their large contribution to the National Research needs 10. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1987. problem. Recognizing that the cost of contamination Case studies of proposed groundwater classification Implications for policy depends upon the availability of substitutes and guidelines. Office Groundwater Protection and treatment technology, two lines of research that Office Policy Analysis, Washington, D.C. A primary reason for developing estimates require further pursuit. First, better forecasts of 11. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1988. of the costs of groundwater contamination to OSWER comparative risk project: Groundwater valuation enlighten decision-makers about the import­ water demand are needed to predict more task force report. Office Underground Storage ance of preventive measures for groundwater accurately the scarcity of new supply and the Tanks, Washington. D.C. protection. Because of the difficulty ofcleaning associated cost of replacement. This research up contaminated aquifers, it is argued that pre­ should include estimates of the price elasticity vention is better than remediation. In carrying of water demand and the possible effect on out an analysis comparing prevention with demand of more rational cost-based pricing remediation, it is tempting to focus on the costs structures. of contamination and compare them with the Second, research and development of costs of a prevention program. This approach, techniques for insitu remediation should be however, can lead to serious errors. encouraged. Pump-and-treat strategies result in No prevention program is perfect, so there very slow remediation of aquifers. Biological or is always the possibility of groundwater chemical methods of purifying water in the contamination despite protective measures. ground could reduce greatly the cost of Conversely, contamination of ground water does cleansing contaminated groundwater sources. not occur around every potential point source. REFERENCES CITES Therefore, damages from contaminatioin only I. Edwards, Steven F. 1987. Option prices for groundwater occur sometimes, with a probability between protection. J. Environ. Econ, and Manager. 15: zero and one. 475-487 NEWS FLASH Congratulations to the Canadian Golf Team of Thom Charters, Bob Heron, Doug Meyer and Robbie Robinson on their one point victory over the United States in the Ransomes International Golf Tournament, England. The tournament was played over 36 holes with Stableford scoring, a birdie on the last hole by Bob Heron was the deciding factor. Teams from Austria, Belgium, Denmark, UPCOMING Finland, Germany, Holland, Northern Ireland the Republic of EVENTS Ireland, Norway, Scotland, Sweden and Wales also competed. Congratulations are also in order for Mr. Paul Dermoit who December 8 - II, 1991 has been selected the 1991 Canadian Superintendent of the C.G.S.A. Conference & Show, Toronto, Ontario year. He will be recognized atthe conference annual meetingand January 8-11, 1992 awarded a trophy at the score awards banquet in Toronto University of Guelph, Ontario Turfgrass Symposium January 13 - 17, 1992 Ohio State University, Golf Course Short Course I have recently accepted a 10 month developmental Turfels Pesticide Licence Preparation Course assignment with OMAF Plant Industry Branch as Program January 25 & 26, 1991, London, Ont. February 22 & 23, 1992, Scarborough, Ont. Manager, Greenhouse & Provincial Specialists. I will be relocating March 28 & 29, 1992, Guelph, Ont. to the Guelph Agriculture Centre during this period. April 25 & 26, 1992, Ottawa Ont. Ms. Pam Charbonneau will be assuming the duties of Turfgrass Extension Specialist November 12, 1991 - August 1, 1992. Pam has an extensive background in horticulture in particular in plant breeding and will be a valuable asset to the GTI team. I would like to thank you for your support and cooperation over the past 5 years. Being turf extension specialist has been both challenging and rewarding. I look forward to continuing to work with the turf industry in the future. Pumping stations aren’t our sideline, They ’re our whole line. We concentrate on one Skilled people provide A Power-filled package. thing and do it very well. knowledgeable service. Product. Installation. Service. At Unlike any other Canadian company, Our staff are committed to ensuring Commercial Pump Service we have we manufacture, install and service you get the product and service you the pumping station you want and the our own pumping stations. We offer deserve. Before and during service you need. the full package because we believe installation, we work with you to the service shouldn’t end after design a system that fits your installation. specifics. And after installation, our specifically trained service Commercial Pump technicians are available for regular Service maintenance checks. Mt. Brydges, Ontario 1-800-265-9786 (519)264-1214 Golf Shemin Nurseries Superintendents HORTICULTURAL DISTRIBUTION CENTERS Our Standard Is Excellence Meet at SPECIALIZING IN GOLF COURSE IRRIGATION Saugeen G.C Master Turf Distributor A combined "work and play’’ seminar for golf course superintendents of Georgian Bay District was held at Saugeen Golf Club, a 67-year-old facility located three miles east of Southampton, Ontario in Bruce County. Seventy-eight "supers ”, equipment representatives and guests entered for the YOUR IRRIGATION SOURCE tournament and golf course equipment demonstrations. The programme started with a golf tournament in which 74 FROM START TO FINISH men and six ladies teed off. During this period an impressive display of maintenance equipment was being shown from ♦ Professional consultation ♦ Product companies ofthe industry including, G.C. Duke Lawn, RMS Turf ♦ Design ♦ Service Care, Ontario Turf and Multitines. Demonstrations were naturally directed at the greenskeepers, but were also viewed by many Milton: 416-875-4545 1-800-263-4111 interested golfers gathered around the site. Toronto: 416-798-4745 Fax: 416-878-4501 Other firms associated with golf maintenance included R.R. #4, Milton, Ontario L9T 2X8 Scott's Pro Turf, Arborists Tree Care, Hunter Irrigation, C-I-L (Fifth Line, South of Steeles) Industries, Aqua Tec, Par Ex and Kaboto Equipment. In the golf competition, Robert Greer, superintendent of Listowel Golf and Country Club, fired a two-over par 74 to win the championship ofthe day, while Rod Champman of Kabota was 80 for the best score of the "B” entries. Low net of "A” division was won by Dave Brooke of Bradford while Tom MacLean was best net for "B” flight. Special awards went to Saugeen's assistant superintendent, Steve Connors for longest drive; closest to pin awards were won by Rod Chapman of Kaboto and Bob Brewster of Toronto. Some • We are proud to be supplying ofthe 24 golf clubs represented included Goderich, Wingham, the Ontario and Quebec Golf Course Exeter, Parry Sound, Port Carling, Barrie, Midland, Creemore, Industry with: Toronto Ladies Golf Club, Toronto Golf, Tobermory, Kincardine, Southport G.C. and Holiday Golf Club, Port Elgin. Non calcareous, low PH An added attraction to the day's events was the "fly-past’’ Hutcheson Silica: ofthe course by Exeter superintendent, Gib Dow, who piloted Topdressing Sand and Mixes his Cessna in for the day, landing at an area strip owned by a Port Construction Sand and Mixes Elgin developer. High Organic Humus and Spagnum Peat Host superintendent and club general manager, Gary Bunker Sands Gravett, welcomed the group and acted as master of ceremonies at the awards dinner following the days play. The equipment • Our products comply with demonstrations drew such interest that they carried on into Industry specifications and have been met with overwhelming darkness. approval by agronomists, architects and superintendents. TRY US! 8 West Street South, Box 910 Huntsville, Ontario POA 1K0 Office: 705-789-4457 Mobile: 705-722-2141 Watts: 1-800-461-5521 Fax: 705-789-1049 MARMAC Marmac Limited Turf Equipment Division 8048 Kipling Avenue, Woodbridge, Ontario L4L 2A1 Telephone: (416) 850-5591-2 Fax: (416) 850-5599 The QB-880 from Billy Goat Industries is a revolutionary new blower, engineered to make it the leader in the industry. This 8 HP (Briggs & Stratton engine) blower features a 14-blade fan and a larger diameter housing for increased volume and velocity of air delivery. And the QB-880 is quieter than any other 8 HP blower, thanks to the new fan construction. This construction also decreases the "gyro effect" Now there's an even more powerful truck loader from Billy Goal Industries — the 11 typically associated with heavier HP TR-1100. It's ideal tor the heavy-duty cleanup of wet and damp debris, such as impellers. Il can be used for industrial, freshly-cut grass and wet leaves. Like the other Billy Goat truck loaders, the TR-1100 commercial or residential applications. features a 4-blade steel impeller that pulverizes debris before discharging The QB-880 — it has the power to get the it into the truck. That means the bulk of the load is reduced, and the job done, and it’s the quietest 8 HP blower hauling capacity is increased. Billy Goat truck loaders are also available you can find. with 5 and 8 HP engines. Come in for a demonstration today! BiLLY SALE PRICED FROM TR-800 (8 H.R) - $1,799.00 GOAT BiLLY GOAT TR-1100 (11 H.P.) -$1,999.00 INDUSTRIES.INC. GET A GOAT INDUSTRIES.INC. $ 625.00 Both Ways it's just GOOD COMMON SENSE The fast, easy The most economical, efficient way way to mow around sand traps, to gather leaves and all other debris bunkers and other awkward and dump it where you want it. slopes. Gordon Bannerman Limited 41 Kelfield Street. Rexdale,Ontario M9W 5A3-Telephone 416-247-7875 • Fax 416-247-6540 Most Revolutions Start Underground. ...a technological breakthrough from Toro...designed to be used anytime, anyplace to relieve turf stress (and yours!) The HydroJect™ 3000 Aerator A revolutionary turf cultivation tool that deeply aerates compacted soils without causing surface disturbance using high velocity water. TURF CARE 200 PONY DR.NEWMARKET,ONTARIO L3Y 7B6 * PHONE (416) 836-0988 * FAX (416) 836-6442