Green is Beautiful OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION Winter Edition 1994 Ransomes 250 LIGHTWEIGHT FAIRWAY MOWER ■ DESIGNED TO PERFORM ■ SERVICEABLE ■ DESIGNED FOR COMFORT • Floating heads with variable weight • Backlap through reel control lever • Deluxe, fully adjustable high- transfer hug ground contours • Easy accessibility of hydraulics and back seat • 22” x 6.5" reels or 22" x 5" reels power unit • Power steering • 7-, 9- or 11-blade reels, precision • Diagnosis of hydraulics through • Tilt steering wheel ground and dynamically balanced test ports • All controls within easy reach • Crosscut capability standard • Interchangeable cutting heads of operator • Front or rear discharge ■ EASY TO OPERATE ■ BUILT TO LAST • Large 26.5 x 14.00-12 front tires • Cutting height adjustment from • Rugged hydrostatic drive system coupled with 20 x 10.00-8 rear tires 0.25" to 1.5" • Blades and bedknives are of the provide increased traction and • Reel adjustment is through hand highest quality and hardness reduced compaction • Sturdy chassis constructed of heavy- microadjusters on 6.5" reels or • 2-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive opposed set screw adjustment on duty plate steel models to meet specific needs 5" reels • Heavy-duty hydraulic pumps ■ PRODUCTIVE • Operator positioned up front for • Proven Kubota engines meet 1995 • 98" cutting swath increased visibility of cutting units CARB specifications • 7- to 7.5-mph mowing speed • Single foot pedal speed control • 10- to 15-mph transport speed • Optional Turf Protector™ hydraulic • 23- or 28-hp Kubota, liquid-cooled oil leak detection system diesel engine • Direct hydraulic drive to cutting units • Hydrostatic drive 1184 Plains Road East, Burlington, Ontario L7S 1W6 TORONTO: BURLINGTON: (905)338-2404 (905)637-5216 Winter Edition 1994 PRESIDENT S MESSAGE Green is the official publication of the Ontario Golf Superintendents Association and is published by the Association six times As I sit at my desk on November 23, there is snow on annually. It is distributed as an educational the ground, my course is closed and the Manager has just document (without charge) to its members, advertisers and other selected parties. informed me that Lakeview Golf Club has had just under 51,000 Although every effort is made to check rounds of golf this year. material for publication, the Association is not responsible for material published on behalf of its contributors. IT HAS BEEN INTERESTING. It has been a busy year for all Manuscripts, photographs and superintendents and for me, as President of the O.G.S.A.. information for consideration may be provided directly to the editor, or to the Association Office. This material will be returned only upon request. Dealing with key issues, notably the G.C.S.A.A. All rights are reserved by the publisher and any reproduction in whole or part without elections, the magazine and our golf and meetings have been the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. time consuming but I feel everything has been dealt with Advertising rates and schedules are professionally and fairly by the O.G.S.A. Board of Directors. available through the Association Office. 1994 OGSA This is my last message as President and I would like to take this Board of Directors opportunity to express some gratitude. First, to all the Board members who President volunteered personal time and extra time at our lengthy and more frequent meetings Bruce Burger and to Cindi Charters who I called upon to do extra work on my behalf. All your Lakeview Golf Club efforts are appreciated and do not go unnoticed. Vice-President John Taylor Twenty Valley Golf Club On a personal note, I must say thank you to Dave W. Gourlay for all his support and for volunteering many years of service on behalf of the Ontario Golf Past-President David W. Gourlay Superintendents’ Association. I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Culb Summerlea incoming President, John Taylor. John’s many years of experience as a Director and Secretary a member of the Executive will again provide the O.G.S.A. with strong leadership. Simon George Oakville Golf Club To everyone - enjoy the winter months, relax a little and learn a little before Treasurer the busy season again arrives. Alex Labelle Maryhill Golf Course Bruce Burger Newsletter Doug Suter President Credit Valley Golf Club Ontario Golf Superintendents’ Association Roster Editor Rick Serrao Golf and Meetings Ken Nelson Ian Bowen Oshawa Golf Club Whats Inside: Paul Dodson Aurora Highlands Golf Club O.V.T.A. Report Page 4 Jerry Richard Golf Course Hockey Challenge Page 4 Craigowen Club Sam Dipinto Retires Page 5 Membership and Scholarships Ontario Turf Symposium 1995 Preview Page 5 Mark Schneider Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep Page 6 Owen Sound Golf Club From Super To Super Salesman Page 7 Office Manager Bulletin Board Page 7 Cindi Charters The O.S.A./Nutrite Turf Seminar Page 8 Guelph Turfgrass Instutite Ontario Golf Superintendents Assoc. Workplace Safety Committee Report Page 10 328 Victoria Road, South Guelph, Ontario N1H 6H8 Panel Predicts Most Influential Superintendent of 1995 Page 12 Message from President of the Golf Equipment Technicians Association Page 14 Tel: (519) 824-OGSA W.O.G.S.A. Report Page 16 Fax: (519) 766-1704 What’s Been Going On at the Galt Country Club Page 17 Printing: City Graphics Design & Print Inc. Cover: A View at the Galt Country Club O.V.T.A. REPORT GOLF COURSE HOCKEY CHALLENGE The O.V.T.A. held its’ Annual Education Seminar on March 16 and 17 As I write this article with the trees bare, the last year. It was again held at the Talisman Hotel with day two being split green grass starting to brown and what’s this - between Talisman and Rivermeade Golf Club. Attendance was very good and snow?!! My thoughts are turning from snow the supplier info centre had 10 booths and 7 tables. mold, aeration and leaf pickup to what every The Executive Day Tournament was held at the Dome Golf Club in Hull. red- blooded Canadian thinks of in the winter The turn out was great with 81 golfers taking on the hills of the “Dome”. It was a months - HOCKEY!!!. Because the NHL is on great day for golf, dry and warm, very different from the tornado that hit the strike and there isn’t a hockey fix available we Aylmer area a few days before. are forced to consider alternative methods to The Ottawa valley Turf Research Foundation tournament was held at satisfy our thirst for puck action. the Emerald Links Golf and Country Club. The day started sunny and hot with Announcing the FIRST ANNUAL GOLF thunderstorms in the afternoon. Thankfully, we could have the b.b.q. outside due COURSE HOCKEY CHALLENGE to be held to the design of the outdoor pavilion - it was very nice. Thanks to everyone who Wednesday, February 1, 1995 at the Jordan participated in this years’ tournament and thank you to all who donated gifts for Arena in Jordan, Ontario (near St. Catherines, our prizes. Congratulations to all who won prizes. Ont.). The challenge will consist of games between four teams from the Toronto area, Kitchener area, Niagara area and Western New York culminating in a consolation and championship final. Teams are to consist of Business Card and Advertising Rates Superintendents, Assistant Superintendents and Suppliers from each area. Plenty of pizza, are available throughthe OGSA office chicken wings and of course, cold beverages will be served. Call for Information Spectators are welcome and volunteers are needed. For more information contact John (519) 824-OGSA Taylor at (905) 562- 4181 or Scott Dodson (716) 632-2949 On Site with Hunter Golf Gear-Drives That Go The Distance Planning a new course or upgrading your existing system? Hunter now has a complete line of reliable golf rotors that are fully compatible with all irrigation systems, and ready to perform in the toughest conditions. Hunter’s exclusive Pure Flow filtration valve handles the dirtiest water, and our proven gear-drives deliver years of quiet, trouble-free operation. All Models Feature: ■ 3" pop-up ■ Easy, through-the-top servicing ■ Built-in recess for yardage markers ■ Adjustable arc and full-circle ■ Check-O-Matic, Hydraulic and Electric Valve-In-Head Authorized Hunter Golf Distributor Ontario Thornhill, 1 Guardsman Rd., 905-881-4794 For all Century locations call: 800-347-4272 Hunter Dedicated to the Irrigation Professional 1940 Diamond St. □ San Marcos, CA 92069 □ U.S.A. □ 1-619-744-5240 □ FAX: 1-619-744-7461 SAM DIPINTO have. This business has been very good to my wife and me.” he says RETIRED honestly, “But I will miss the people.” BY RICK SERRAO When asked what the future holds Sam had this to say, “The business has been good to me and I would like After 34 years in the golf industry, to continue participating without the Sam Dipinto is retiring. It has been a responsibility of being at the top. I’d long and satisfying career. like to help anywhere I can.” Born and raised in the west end Sam Dipinto has had a long and of Toronto, Sam was 1 of 9 children. wonderful career. His dedication, There were 3 sisters and 5 brothers perseverance and honesty are assets in his family. Sam completed his high we should all strive to nurture in school career at Harbord Collegiate ourselves. I have known Sam for only and started work on a farm run by 4 years, but I have learned from priests. This was where he went to watching him and listening to him. complete his theological studies. improve irrigation, drainage, bunkers Best wishes are extended to Sam Sam’s career in turf management and tees. Much of the work has been and Ada - Enjoy your retirement began in 1960 under the watchful and done in house, and we all know how Sam, may it be as long and enjoyable steady guidance of David S. Gourlay demanding that can be. as your career in turf has been. at Summit Golf and Country Club. In Through all of this hard work, 1961, David made Sam his Assistant long hours and countless weekends Business Card Superintendent. Sam was fired after without time off, Sam has found the and Advertising rates are available through one year as the Assistant because, time to raise a family. He and his the OGSA office he says, “I didn’t like to work in the lovely wife, Ada, have just celebrated call for information rain.” their 45th wedding anniversary. Sam and Ada have raised 5 children, all (519) 824-OGSA In 1962 Sam began working at the Richmond Hill Golf Club. He grown, who remain very close to worked for Dick Kirkpatrick during their parents. ONTARIO TURF construction of the course. He Ada Dipinto has worked with SYMPOSIUM 1995 worked two years longer at Richmond Sam on the golf course staff for about Hill as George Darou’s Assistant. the past 15 years. In the earlier days, PREVIEW From Richmond Hill Sam went on to along with raising their children, she by Simon George work for the late and renowned C.E. mowed fairways, cut greens and January 4, 5, 6 mark the dates Robinson. Together they built the first raked traps. Even now she and Sam for O.T.S. ‘95, the third year of the nine holes of the Upper Canada Golf work together because Ada keeps current format co- sponsored by Club (now Morrisburg). After those the books at the golf club. I asked the six allied associations and in nine holes, Sam decided he’d had Sam if he was a good boss to work cooperation with the University of enough and in September 1965, he for - he replied he had to be or he Guelph. became Golf Course Superintendent didn’t get any supper. This year’s event promises to at Oakville Golf and Country Club. Sam joined the Ontario Golf be one of the best Turfgrass In 1967 he moved on to Lido Golf Superintendents’ Association in 1965 Conferences in North America due in Burlington and remained there until and received his 25- year plaque in to an excellent speaker program 1973. Sam calls his years at these 1990. Sam is also a member of the and a well planned, large exhibition two clubs the “most gratifying.” In C.G.S.A., the W.O.G.S.A. and the area. It provides an ideal 1973 Sam began working at the G.C.S.A.A. He always makes time to opportunity to rub shoulders with Beverly Golf and Country Club in attend as many meetings as he can. and to see old and new friends. Copetown, Ontario and has been a Sam feels it is very important to keep Tune into C.T.V. ‘s W5 for a mainstay for them ever since. For 21 up with the changes in technology. preview of our keynote speaker, years he has nurtured fairways, Over his almost 35 years in the Mr. Eric Mailing. As host of the greens and tees diligently, providing business the changes have been most watched television show in the members with a course they can enormous. Canada, Mailing has covered be proud of. Many changes have “ I feel very lucky to have served stories in every corner of the occurred over the years and Sam the industry for this long. I have no country and has reported on considers that his biggest success. regrets and am thankful to have met scandal and corruption, revolution He and his staff have worked hard to the people and done the things I continued on page 9 NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP... by Alex La Belle removal process? Did the course receive greater leaf surface area to enhance a late fall fertilization, a dormant photosynthesis and build carbohydrate application, neither or both? Were all (CHO) reserves. We keep the fairways areas of the course fertilized? When it and tees at about the same height as the comes to fungicides, were granulars or regular season but drop the rough to sprays used and when and where were about 1.25 inches from 2 inches to make they applied? And finally, was the grass leaf clean up easier. The leaves are allowed to grow in all areas or were some easier to blow, not being caught up in spots kept short while others were long grass. We have to rope off some allowed to grow? greens and tees to keep skiers away. I When was the turf last aerated and have some excellent pictures of turf what was done with the cores and holes? damage resulting from the build up of ice A lot of questions to be considered and associated with the compaction of snow As we meet and greet over the I’m sure there could have been more but on the ski runs. winter at the various educational events, I’ll ask those another time, perhaps. Georgian Bay: We don’t use covers. the conversations revolve around how Anyway here are the answers and some With three feet of snow each year we our families are, what the year was like, of the theory behind the decisions. haven’t had a problem with ice. what we are doing for the winter andwhat Kitchener: We are concerned with the We irrigate from a lagoon associated our plans are for next year. Somewhere ice build up that occurs on the turf over with a stream that runs through the in the conversation we might broach the the winter so we cover all of our greens property, past several farm fields. I am topic of how we wintered last year, what with solid covers, as well as the tees that concerned that the nitrate level in this we did differently this time around and have drainage problems. In the spring we stream may be adequate to sustain what we expect next spring. You know; get out, as soon as possible when the ice growth after September and so we stop the crystal ball stuff! has melted, and remove the covers to fertilizing around the middle of Well, I was asked to write an article prevent the greens from green housing or September. In late October (this year, on course winterizing so I made a few getting too lush. If this happens, then the early November) we apply a methylene calls to pick the brains of some of our plants are too tender to adapt to the urea (21-3-12) at a rate of one pound colleagues in various parts of the harsh conditions of early spring and they per thousand to the greens. Because of province. The responses were suffer a setback. the late flush of growth, associated with refreshingly varied and quite interesting. Before we place the covers in the our last rainfall, we had to mow once The practices were well thought out and winter we apply quintozene as a spray to more and I estimate that we picked up based on the keen observations of the prevent snow mold. We purchase 55 lb. about one quarter of the fertilizer resident superintendents. I chose courses bags with 75% active ingredient and application. We don’t bother fertilizing the in Kitchener, Oshawa, Windsor, Ottawa apply at the rate of 6% active per 1000 fairways after the summer ends. and Georgian Bay. You can judge for square feet in late October and again just We spray the greens with calo-chlor yourselves as to what aspects of these before covering. This has reduced our and use PMA-10 on the tees and practices suit your course or philosophy. previous spray costs by a couple of fairways. Last year we tried some One major difference that will have to be thousand dollars. One bag will cover quintozene (12-2-12) granular on some factored in is the unusually warm fall we 120,000 square feet at the normal rate tees and aprons and I was quite happy have encountered. I will attempt to follow (12%). with the results. We may have to consider up this report early next year to help you We do apply a dormant fertilizer. this for the future if Calo-chlor is see whether your analyses of the We combine ammonium sulphate with removed from the market. I don’t know, potential successes were correct. potassium sulphate to achieve an yet, what we’ll use if PMA-10 isn’t re­ Some of the questions that went analysis of 15-0-15. This is applied at a registered. through my mind while I was setting up rate of one pound per thousand square We let the greens come up to 0.185 this article were covers, fertilization, feet and watered in with a half an hour of from 0.156 to facilitate CHO build up and fungicides and cultural practices. Were irrigation to prevent burning. We leave provide a cushion for the crown of the covers used or not? If so, were they the irrigation blow out until we have put plant over the winter. We drop the rough perforated, solid or both? Was straw used down this treatment. cut to about 1.25 inches to assist in leaf under covers, between them or not at all? Once the playing schedule is over blowing and stop cutting the tees and If straw was used did it make a mess and we allow the greens to come up to 0.2 fairways around the last week of October. how was it cleaned up? When did the inches from our seasonal height of 0.12 continued on page 15 greens get covered and what was the inches. This provides the plant with a Dave; I like meeting different superintendents in different areas FROM SUPER TO SUPER on a more regular basis and not just at golf meetings or conferences or when trouble pops up. I get more opportunity to SALESMAN see other courses rather than being chained to one place all by Alex La Belle year. continued on page 13 Every year, it seems, we see a list of superintendents flipping around BULLETIN BOARD from course to course like a parade of dominoes. In most cases its a change of courses but in some instances its a complete change in occupation. This little interview is a short profile of one David B. Dick Jeff McMaster individual who has stepped across The O.M. Scott & Sons Company The O.M. Scott & Sons Company the welcome mat to see golf 39 Monte Vista Trail 1864 Bowler Drive courses from the other side. His Brampton, Ontario L6Z 2J7 Pickering, Ontario L1V 3E4 name is David Schemlefske, or Fax + Telephone: (905)846-3319 Telephone:(905)839-6526 Schemer, to those who know him 1-800-543-0006 well. David made the transition earlier this year and at the end of it consented to give us a look back NU-GRO CORPORATION Highway 59 South, P.O. Box 1148 at why he decided to change professions and how it worked out. Woodstock, Ontario N4S 8P6 David was born in Lindsay, Ontario but moved to the Kitchener area Telephone (519) 456-2021 when he was very young. He went to high school in Kitchener and in Fax: (519) 456-5002 1980 attended Humber College where he received his Diploma in ROB FIELD Horticulture. In 1985 David supplemented this with a Certificate of Technical Sales Representative Turfgrass Management from the University of Guelph. After eight years Professional Turf Products Res: (905) 681-3949 as a grounds person, and later assistant, he became the superintendent Car: (905)541-8872 of the Pike Lake Golf Course for two years. David moved back to the Kitchener area to become the superintendent of the Merry-Hill Golf Club where he stayed for five years until this past winter. G.I.B. What was your reason for changing jobs?' Fast In. Fast Out. Dave; I wanted something with a little more security and a different We move trees—yours or ours. challenge. My contract came up for renewal each year and I Tree spades: 60,84 and 94 inches. heard about the position with O.S.C. so I applied. It was an We can supply almost any size and species you require opportunity to keep in touch with the same crowd and put my Can Phil Dickie knowledge of the industry to good use. FAST FOREST INC. G.I.B. What aspects of the job did you like as superintendent. 270 Shoemaker Street Dave; I had a good rapport with most of the members and we had a Kitchener, Ontario N2E 3E1 great staff. I likedbeing out there early in the morning to see the Tel: (519)7486610 sun shining across the freshly cut greens. I liked to see the rain FAX: (519) 748-6626 bows through the mist of the sprinklers; listening to the impact of the sprinkler arms and the sounds of the birds. Its like the whole world is yours.Its quite an uplifting experience.. G.I.B. What were your dislikes? Dave; It was frustrating, wanting to do more with the course, but being limited by time, weather and money as most superintendents will tell you. My contracts were only one year long so each winter came the uncertainty and worry about the next year. I wanted a Corrie Almack, P.Ag. more secure environment and I was getting tired of not having and weekends to spend with my family in the summer. Almack & Associates G.I.B. What do you find appealing in sales? Box 256, Carlisle, Ontario LOR 1H0 905-689*6174 THE O.S.C./NUTRITE TURF SEMINAR BY Alex La Belle I had the opportunity to attend the O.S.C./Nutrite Turf Seminar on Tuesday, November 29 and I’m glad I did. I can’t remember when I’ve enjoyed myself so much at a one day educational event. It seems that time is always compressed to the point where, if you can remember all that is said, there’s no time to discuss things with the speakers or the other participants. This was not the case at the Dundee Golf Club where the talks were held. The speakers were very interesting and the topics fit very well with one another. Ms. Cheryl Craft, Dr. Tom Hsiang, Gary Watschke and Angelo Capanelli blended well (pun intended) the TOP L TO R: DR. TOM HSIANG, GARY WATSCHKE, TIM SILVER aspects of soil structure from a physical and microbiological BOTTOM L TO R: CHERYL CRAFT, MARY BETH KELLY, ANGELO CAPANELLI standpoint with their effects on disease and nutrient availability.. areas, if it ever was at all. By the time we see the symptoms it is Ms. Craft, from Cornell University, presented some too late. The disease begins its destruction of the root system encouraging data on biocontrol of turf grass disease. It seems that early in the year under cool, moist conditions. It seems to be a bacterial and fungal isolates from various composted materials bigger problem on high sand content mediums with young turf have shown a marked effect on the reduction of such diseases as growing in soil pH’s > 6.5. Some things that we can do are to Pythium Blight. Bacteria, most notably frombrewery waste, avoid alkaline top dressing and irrigation sources, avoid the use of showed an ability to actively suppress the pythium pathogen. fine grade limes if we have to use lime, and use higher It appears that exudates from turf grass roots stimulate the concentrations of phosphorus in the spring along with ammonium pythium fungus to attack the plant under ideal soil conditions. sulphate. The ammonium sulphate choice may not sit well with Entobacter, apparently, consumes quantities of the exudate some who feel that sulfates are linked to black layer conditions. A reducing this triggering mechanism. Actinomycetes seem to good text for the lay person, regarding turf grass diseases is “A actively suppress the pythium fungus itself. Trachyderma fungus, Compendium of Turf grass Diseases” by APS Press also produced by compost wastes, show promise along the same publications. lines but are adversely affected by the fungicides we use for Gary Watschke’s talk on the role of organic amendments disease control. The Trachyderma fungus is close to registration touched on the industry’s preoccupation with physical properties for use on turf grass in the western United States. of growing mediums at the expense of the mediums biochemistry. Dr. Tom Hsiang’s update on Take All Patch, formerly Frog A good quality soil consists of 3-5% organic matter, yet we are eye or Fusarium Blight, brought home the point that cultural producing greens mixes with less that 2% organic matter and management, in many cases, may be all that we are left with as attempting to adjust the imbalance later through amendments. more and more pesticide registrations lapse and expenses mount Perhaps we would be better off incorporating the amendment in to have them re-registered. Although benomyl had been the original mixes. More and more supers are introducing some recommended in the past, it may be that it is not effective in all continued on page 13 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... (905) 772-3551 (905) 388-6865 Over 30 Years Experience! ONTARIO TURF SYMPOSIUM Day two is rounded out with a panel make a presentation. 1995 PREVIEW discussion on “Occupational Health and Speaking earlier of Dr. Jack Eggens - continued form page 5 Safety in the Workplace” moderated by As many of you know Dr. Jack will be and insurrection in more than 40 nations Thom Charters. retiring this year. There will be a reception around the world. On or off the air, Friday morning is all set with a for him Wednesday, January 4 between Mailing rarely minces his words. Interview choice of seminars ranging from 6:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M. at Peter Clark subjects suspected of wrongdoing Turfgrass Species Identification and Use Hall. All of us who have had the pleasure routinely feel the sting of his questioning. with the ever popular Dr. Eggens, Peter of Jack’s input into our turf careers should He can be equally tough on his own Barrow of Barrow Communications on plan to attend. profession. A serious student of the how to develop a Hazard Communication Many thanks to Continuing media, Mailing voices deep concern Program and finally one of the most Education’s Kelly Wilson, Ursula about how television journalists use and popular sessions by Dr.Lynda Pinnington Rodriguez and Mira Soni for all their abuse their power and are often used and on Management and Motivation. efforts behind the scenes, and to the abused in turn by special interest groups The program winds down on Friday O.T.S. Committee and its’ Chairman, with their own agendas. afternoon highlighted by no less than four Rhod Trainor for a job well done in putting Other speaker highlights include of our own Superintendents speaking on together a great program for this year. Guelph’s own Dr. Jack Eggens, Dr. Tom topics including “Gadgets and Gizmos” Education, equipment displays, Hsiang, Dr. Ken Carey and Dr. Chris Hall. and “Working with a Master Plan”. The receptions and of course our O.G.S.A. The well known Dr. Norm Hummel from speakers include Mark Hagen, Rob Annual Meeting will make the O.T.S. ‘95 Cornell University speaks to us on Ackerman and Paul Scenna. They will be one of the most interesting and exciting fertilization and organic amendments for helped by Ian Andrew of Carrick and events of the year. turf. Associates. Bruce Summers will also MAPLE FARM SUPPLY LIMITED The Turf Professionals Serving The Greater Toronto Area Quality You Can Count On One Stop Shopping Fertilizers Control Products Complimentary Golf Course Blends Insecticides Turf Seeds Granulated Blends Herbicides Micronutrients Liquids Fungicides Safety Supplies Water Soluble Spreader/Stickers Tank Cleaners Organic Spray Drift Control Spreaders 1 (800) 268-4425 Maple Farm Supply Limited, BOX 370, BOLTON, ON L7E 5T3 ONTARIO GOLF SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIAT 16/10/94 number of issues. The following should be considered regarding A committee was formed in early spring to try and piece your employees’ safety, and in particular helmet use: together a common goal for safety compliance with governing bodies and our individual golf courses. In this regard we sent out a 1) Whenever possible work should be scheduled to avoid questionnaire to all Class A and B members of the association, and potentially hazardous situations. When this cannot be effectively began a dialogue with the Ministry of Labour and the Workman’s accomplished, a barrier should be placed between the employee Compensation Board. and potential hazards; as well as offering PPE, to minimize We will address the questionnaire and its findings later in this exposure to hazards. report, but first some insight into the discussions with the Ministry of Labour’s Provincial Co- ordinator for Health and Safety Education. 2) It is crucial, in the interest of creating a safe work- place, that golfers be educated about THEIR responsibilities. The intent being A number of interesting points for all parties was revealed: that, on the issue of golf balls and staff, that players become more aware of the employees’ presence and do their part in creating a 1) Ministry of Labour inspectors, for the most part, concern safe atmosphere to work in. This includes being recognized by staff themselves with shop conditions, pesticide storage and handling that golfers are ready to play, and permitting staff to remove and equipment maintenance and safe handling. themselves to safe areas to avoid being struck by golf balls, even if PPE is being worn (i.e., helmets). 2) Ministry of Labour would work with us to clarify areas of uncertainty in the Occupational Health and Safety Act that pertains It is clear that both sides need to be both educated and to or affects our sector. responsible in creating a safer environment for the player and employee alike. 3) Compliance in Safety Certification is mandatory for all employment situations. Golf courses are not immune, and must The following results from the survey indicate that we generally have Certified individuals as well as Safety Committees in place. are safety minded. These results should be considered cautiously The target date for this completion is 1995; however, if a poor and put to use to improve the weak areas in our operation. This in response to training is perceived, the date will be pushed forward to turn will make our industry as a whole even safer for both our 1994 and compliance legislated. employees and golfers. 4) There was an acknowledgment that the use of personal empty table cell % Yes %No protective equipment (PPE) was generally considered for the Health and Safety of employees using equipment and supplies, and not as 1. Is a safety committee in place? 53 47 specific protection against golf balls. 2. Is workplace covered by WCB? 89 11 5) The committee was also made aware of the Work Well 3. Are steel- toed shoes mandatory? 66 22 Program. This is an extension of the Workman’s Compensation Board, and dialogue was initiated with them at that time. 4. Are hard- hats provided? 95 3 55% empty table Subsequent meetings are still to be arranged and information 5. Are they - Bump Caps -Are theyApproved CSA 45% empty table brought forth in the future. 6. Are hard- hats mandatory? 56 44 In the meantime, through the Golf Equipment Technicians Association of Ontario, we became aware of the existence of a 7. Is policy on hard- hats dictated by group called TOURISM and HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY HEALTH owners / board 60 40 and SAFETY PROGRAM (THIHSEP). They are a sister of the IAPA 8. Do employees feel safer with helmets? 43 57 and FARM SAFETY ASSOCIATION, and have been in existence for five (5) years. The funding for these programs is derived from 9. Do you provide hearing protection? 98 2 WCN premiums paid by employers. 10. Do you provide pesticide safety THIHSEP has become our main source of information and equipment? 98 2 assistance, they should be yours as well. Contact numbers and an 11. Is protective clothing for pesticide address will be listed at the end of this report. mandatory? 85 15 Meetings with consultants from THIHSEP have helped to clarify a 12. Have protective devices / switches been removed from equipment? 29 71 Number of certified chain- saw operators: 166% 13. Have you installed protective screens 2-3 17% on your equipment? 39 61 >3 17% 14. Do you have staff meetings specifically for safety purposes? 55 45 Accidents reported in1993 <176% 15. Do you have an employee manual? 66 34 4- 8 22% 8- 10 2% 16. Does it specify safety procedures? 75 25 >10 0% 17. Have you implemented WHMIS? 56 44 Types of injuries reported: Strains 24% 18. Are emergency numbers posted? 74 26 Sprains 17% Cuts 37% 19. Does the employer have environmental Broken bones 4% accidents insurance? 41 59 Bruises 17% Burns -- 20. Are you familiar with the details and relevance Poisoning 1% of the coverage? 29 71 Parts of body affected: 21. Are golfers made aware of their respon- Eyes 6% sibility regarding staff safety (i.e., hitting Head 6% golf balls within range of staff)? 18 82 Torso 4% Back 19% 22. Do you offer First Aid or CPR to staff? 54 46 Arms 7% Hands 9% empty table cell 23. Do you have the following Acts on file and/ or Fingers 26% available to staff?: Legs 16% - Pesticide Act 93% Ankles 5% available Do you -23. have to staff?: Employment Standards the following Acts Act on file and/ or 75% empty table cell Feet 2% available Do you -23. have to staff?: the following Occupational & Safety HealthActs and/ or 77% on file Act? empty table cell In summation, as can clearly be seen, each workplace is Do you 23. -available have to staff?: Protection the following Environmental Acts onAct? file and/ or 31% empty table cell unique unto itself even in an industry such as ours. If you never Do you 23. Ontario -available have to staff?: the following Gas Handling Act? Acts on file and/ or 24% empty table cell experience a serious accident, and your claims are remain below WHMIS Do you 23. -availablehave to staff?: the following Acts on file and/ or 74% empty table cell industry standards, you will likely never see a Ministry of Labour inspector. This should not diminish the importance of maintaining a 24. Have you ever used IAPA or FARM safe work environment. SAFETY ASSOCIATION services? 16 84 Compliance is a function of budget, but first you must establish what must be done, and which matters must be a priority. It may Number of employees handling pesticides: take years to comply fully. The sooner you start the less likely you 1 16% are to have a serious accident and face severe penalties. Now you 2-3 63% know. >3 21% For further information and assistance with your program, contact: THIHSEP Number of licensed applicators of pesticide: 5805 Whittle Road, Suite 8 1 36% Mississauga, OntarioL4Z 2J1 2- 3 52% >3 12% Phone: (905)507-1880 Toll free: 1 800- 263- 2884 Number of employees operating chain saws: Fax: (905)507-1886 CALL TODAY TO GET THE INFORMATION YOU NEED 1 66% 2- 3 56% Respectfully submitted, >3 33% Thom Charters and Rick Serrao PANEL PREDICTS MOST INFLUENTIAL SUPERINTENDENT OF 1995 TAYLOR POSITIONS HIMSELF TO TAKE THE WHEEL !!! SUPERINTENDENT ODDS COMMENTS 1. John Taylor 5- 1 Incoming President O.G.S.A., best positioned to influence Association, aggressive 2. Bruce Burger 8- 1 Most experienced O.G.S.A. board member, could lie low after a hectic ‘94 3. Paul Dermott CGCS 10- 1 Will depend on G.C.S.S.A. election, tough race to predict, Past President of the O.G.S.A. 4. David W. Gourlay 10- 1 10 year O.G.S.A. term now complete, had the wheel in ‘93, G.C.S.A.A. election critical to have impact 5. Thom Charters 12-1 Highly seasoned and respected superintendent, speciality in environmental issues, a contender every year 6. Randy Scott 15- 1 Has greatest impact outside of province, Past President C.G.S.A. 7. Bill Glashan 16- 1 Has the Niagara Region locked up, longevity a definite asset, W.O.G.S.A. support 8. Gord Witteveen 20- 1 Potential for greatest impact, controversial, influence limited to Toronto area 9. Paul White 25- 1 Could have a great impact, dependent on O.G.S.A. election in January, Past President of the O.G.S.A. 10. Scott Dodson CGCS 30- 1 Strong impact south of the border, surprisingly big ‘94 golf win, voting delegate for ‘95 11. Pelino Scenna 30- 1 C.G.S.A. representative, Ottawa show will determine degree of influence, Past President of the O.G.S.A. 12. Rhod Trainor CGCS 40- 1 Past President of the O.G.S.A., still has ability to shake up the industry, alternate voting delegate for ‘95 13. Bob Heron, CGCS 40- 1 Past President O.G.S.A., an election win could see influence soar 14. Alex LaBelle 50- 1 One year away from being in position of most influence 15. Neil Acton CGCS 50- 1 A dark horse this year, great influence and involvement in the past FOOTNOTE: Predictions were comprised by an independent panel and do not necessarily reflect the views of the O.G.S.A. Only O.G.S.A. Superintendents in good standing were used. THE O.S.C./NUTRITE TURF SEMINAR continued from page 8 FROM SUPER TO SUPER SALEMAN continued from page 7 topsoil into the mixes to enhance the microbial populations of the medium and increase the buffering and cation exchange capacity. It G.I.B. What do you find difficult in sales? may be that we are also giving the pathogenic fungi a dose of some Dave; Being my first year, I can’t say that there is much that friendly microorganisms. I don’t like. I get disappointed from time to time when Again we find a correlation between topics with Gary and Angelo I miss out on a sale but the competition is friendly and Campanelli’s subjects. Angelo, from Hutcheson Sand & Mixes, took you generally make it up somewhere else. us on a guided tour of their intricate blending process whereby G.I.B. How many courses would you see in a year or in one computers, water and specific gravities of sands are used to separate day? and recombine different particle sizes. They have been receiving Dave; I get around to about seventy-five courses in a year. requests for mixes as delicate as 17.5% peat with 7.5% soil and 75% In a day I can see about twelve customers, depending sand. Now that the U.S.G.A. has redefined its parameters for upon the area that I’m in. Sometimes the super is in construction mixes we may see even more particular ratios. This is and we could end up in a nice long chat or if their out something that just cannot be achieved with any sense of I’ll just drop off the order and my card. consistency using traditional methods. G.I.B. What is your typical day like? These topics tied in well with Zeke Hurd’s presentation of Dave; I get up. Bonus! My van is well stocked so I’ll usually infrared remote sensing. Zeke is the president and founder of call into the office to see if there have been any spe­ Pegasus Environmental Limited. Zeke pilots his own plane which cial requests before I head out on the road. If I sell uses infrared imaging to measure photosynthetic rates of plants. quite a bit out of the van I’ll try to get back to the office Through digital analysis of the photos, or VCR film, he can pinpoint that day to restock and write up any orders that I’ve stress areas well in advance of the symptoms we wait to see. This received in my travels. I don’t like to let things build method gives us 10 times the information available to the naked eye. up to the point where I have a mountain of paper to Imagine 250 shades of gray. We could easily distinguish sort out. I’ll try to pick one day a week, usually between shade 2 and shade 94 but this process can tell the Monday, to stay in the office to take care of paper difference between shades 198 & 199! This would enhance our use work and help out with the phones. Most superinten­ of I.P.M. and provide us with hard physical data regarding why we dents need Monday to plan the week and take care of had to spray on any given day for a particular pest. It could be an any surprises that crop up over the weekend. effective defense tool in legal cases and allow us to apply smaller G.I.B. What’s it like on the other side of the trade show doses of pesticide to weaker stages of the target pests. floor? Mary Beth Kelly, also from Hutcheson’s, is responsible for the Dave; Its quite frenzied getting everything set up. There’s a marketing of Netlon. A synthetic, stable, mesh-like plastic polymer is lot of work and planning but we try to anticipate all of intermingled with sand mixes to provide a resilient, cushioned the needs of the attendees as much as we can. It growing medium capable of sustaining uniform turf cover under the really helps with people like Tami Packham, Adrien pounding hooves of thoroughbreds. Developed in Hong Kong, for Gallant, Kent McDonald and Chuck Egleston their race track, it has been used successfully on golf courses, in high who know the ropes and are very supportive. They’ve traffic areas, to eliminate the tediously frustrating cycle of stripping made the transition really easy and Scott, Jim and and re-establishing sod year after year. The flexible properties of the Buck Uffelman really foster a friendly, family environ­ mesh keep pore spaces open to allow drainage and root penetration ment. We all have a lot of fun. The drivers and office while preventing soil erosion. staff are all top notch and I wish I could mention them Two of our local Pros, Rob Strahan and Tim Silver, gave us a all by name. Everybody’s great! Pro’s perspective on course operations, emphasizing the need for G.I.B. Any closing comments? communication.They are in the lion’s den when it comes to explaining Dave; Well, we’ve just bought a home in Kitchener to be frost delays and the need for aerations. closer to the office and we’re really happy with the The more warning and information we give them, the better able move. My wife Beth has been a rock through all of they will be to effectively defend decisions on course maintenance. this and it really helps when you have someone back Our hosts made sure that all our needs were taken care of. ing you up. Its a pleasant change being able to get There was ample coffee and muffins on hand at registration to start up with the family and share breakfast together. It’s the day off and take care of any of us who may have had to skip December and I don’t have the old employment breakfast. The lunch was delicious and afterwards an unending boogie man staring over my shoulder for the first time supply of sandwiches, cheeses and fruit kept us going up to the final in a long time. I've had a lot of fun and I'm really treat. The evening was capped off by an excellent comic from Yuk looking forward to next year. I'd just like to wish all my Yuk’s by the name of Larry Horowitz. Mr. Horowitz has enjoyed old friends and new ones a Merry Christmas and a success on the Letterman Show, Joan Rivers and won America’s Happy New Year. I hope to see a lot of you at the Funniest People’s top award. He had us in stitches right from start to Symposium in Guelph and the Canadian Turfgrass finish with a wide range of material tastefully presented. Conference in Ottawa in March. O.S.C./Nutrite are to be commended for a job well done! FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE GOLF EQUIPMENT TECHNICIANS HUTCHESON ASSOCIATION OF ONTARIO SAND AND MIXES To Our New Members and New Readers, • We are proud to be supplying the Ontario and Quebec Golf Course Industry with: I would like to thank Mr. Bruce Burger and his committee for allowing our Association to participate in this issue of Green Non calcareous, low pH is Beautiful. Also, many thanks to Bruce for attending our golf Hutcheson Silica: tournament. It was a pleasure to have had the opportunity to discuss our new Association with Bruce. I brought him up to Topdressing Sand and Mixes date regarding the certification program in Ontario, now I would Construction Sand and Mixes like to take this opportunity to bring you up to date as well. High Organic Humus and Sphagnum Peat The trade of Golf Mechanic is now an endorsement certificate, Bunker Sands together with a small engine license in Ontario. In the short time Netlon® since the news came to us, we have some 15 - 20 new • Our products comply with Industry specifications apprentices signed in Ontario. They will be attending Durham and have met with overwhelming approval by College starting January 2, 1995 for the first session of theory agronomists, architects and superintendents. that will run eight consecutive weeks. If you know anyone who would like to become an apprentice please have them call the local office of the Ontario Training and Apprenticeship Board. Apprenticeship programs will be subsidized by the government. TRY US! All information is available at your local O.T.A.B. office. 8 West Street South, Box 910, Huntsville, ON, POA 1 KO I urge all Superintendents to encourage your mechanics to get Office: 705-789-4457 Watts: 1-800-461-5521 involved. It is our goal as an Association to provide the best Fax: 705-789-1049 education we can for the benefit of our industry and membership. It will benefit you and your club if your mechanic is has the best possible information to maintain your ever course construction superintendent and now turf equipment sales changing fleet. The Golf Equipment Technicians Association of representative. Each position carries its’ own specific job description Ontario has its’ own independently run service schools and and the experience gained in each change provides the basics to seminars available on a first come first serve basis. Please move on. contact me any time for additional information. I became involved in turf equipment sales purely by coincidence. Nevertheless, it has proved exciting and quite challenging. Traveling around the countryside visiting Yours truly, Richard Heffering superintendents and friends is quite enjoyable. Observing their PRESIDENT success and handiwork gives a new appreciation of the natural G.E.T.A.O. beauty that all golf courses’ possess. Occasionally, I am asked for Scarborough Golf Club suggestions or ideas to help solve a problem that a superintendent (416) 266-4546 EXT. 245 may be having with an area on his course. I find this aspect particularly challenging, it tests my knowledge and forces me to keep up to date with the agronomic issues facing today’s Turf Managers. In sales, of course, the business is to sell. Fortunately most superintendents are knowledgeable enough to know what type of CAREER CHANGES result they want. It is up to the sales representative to show them by Mark Hagen the product. Pressure sales in this industry are unnecessary and generally unsuccessful. There is a sense of success for the salesperson if the product shown lives up to its’ reputation. Closing Statistics show that in today’s world, few individuals stay at the deal with both customer and sales representative happy and in one place of employment for more than fifteen years. Much of the agreement is true job satisfaction. The pace of this seasonal workplace makes a least one career change during a lifetime, industry is, at times, nerve racking. The scheduling of equipment whether it is by their own choice or not. demonstrations, deliveries and equipment setup is complicated and Many individuals in the turf business have been a golf hectic. Whether you are employed as a Golf Course Superintendent or Turf Equipment Sales Representative there are still only twenty- NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP however, apply potassium to strengthen rush frantically to acquire covers for the continued from page 6 the plant prior to winter stress and correct next year. Dealers in the area were able any nutrient deficiencies detected by a to supply covers at excellent prices Oshawa: We cover our poa greens with soil test. Late in November we do apply because of the great demand. The solid covers where insufficient drainage one pound per thousand of urea impetus was a winter that saw a great leads to an ice build up. All other greens everywhere. many courses lose anywhere from 75% to are covered with perforated covers to The fungicide of choice here is Arrest 100% of their greens from New Brunswick prevent desiccation and ensure uniform for the greens and tees. The only areas through Montreal and Ottawa to colour from green to green for the spring. on the fairways that we treat are those Winnipeg. This year we are attaching 1.5 inch that have dense tree growth where any We cover a couple of our worst diameter dowels, about two inches to the snow we might get would tend to stay greens with the solid covers but haven’t underside of 3/4 inch plywood sheets to longer than what we consider normal. had to resort to complete cover. We keep the tarps elevated above low areas The fungicide that we use in this situation aerate greens with hollow tines on the first on the greens. Any round circles caused is PMA-10. long weekend in August. We start on by the pegs can be plugged out in the We leave the rough at the same Sunday at 1 o’clock and have the course spring. height all year long. We keep the greens open for play by noon the next day. If the Late in the fall we apply one pound of at 0.13 right up until we close since we weather cooperates, which it seldom nitrogen per thousand square feet to all have golfers so late in the season. Once does! We use our hydroject the rest of the greens. The sourse varies from organic, we get into late October we stop cutting time. In the fall we double aerate the to I.D.B.U., to methylene urea depending tees and fairways. I guess it depends on fairways and rough leaving the cores in upon the composition of the growing how you look at it, but we are fortunate in place over the winter to help bust up the medium. The greens are treated with a that we can work practically all winter long ice layers. I feel that the irregular surface spray of Arrest. Tees treated with two correcting course problems like cart and dark colour of the cores is beneficial varieties of quintozene: FF II (14-3-3) and paths, tree removal or replacement and to us in that regard. In the spring, when Par-Ex (12-2-12). The tees and fairways other construction related necessities. the ground dries out, we mat the cores remain at the same height all year and we We’ve had good success over the last six back in. Once a year, in late June, we keep the rough at 2.25 inches throughout years with this routine under varied winter aerate the fairways with an aerway and the season. conditions. It works for me! follow it with a heavy top dressing of Windsor: We don’t get a lot of snow Ottawa: Many people consider this the straight sand. The fairways are composed down here in the banana belt. We plowed ice belt; no bananas here! Many courses of heavy clay. Around September 1st we snow three times last year. Its unusual for are faced with up to six inches of dense apply 21-6-12 as my last fertilizer a significant snow fall to last more than ice on the greens from the last week of treatment before the dormant application four weeks and so we don’t use solid December to the end of March. in late October. We use Sustain at a covers. I suppose we could use Techniques vary as much as the weather pound of “N” per thousand as a dormant perforated covers to prevent desiccation, from one side of the Ottawa Valley to the because of its dark colour and potential and some superintendents in the area do, other. The variance in cover use is, effectiveness against snow mold. but I find a heavy top dressing just as perhaps, most widely experienced here We spray Calo-chlor on the greens effective in protecting the crown. We from Pembroke to Montreal. and tees but I don’t treat the fairways with aerate the whole course late in October. Some courses use only solid tarps on all anything. The greens are cut at 0.15 On the greens, tees and fairways we use greens. Some put solid tarps on top of throughout the season and after hollow tines. We verticut the cores back in perforated ones so that in the spring, September we keep them at 0.18 for the on the greens because we have a good when the ice is pushed off the top cover rest of the year. The tees and fairways are greens mix to work with. We remove the and it is removed, the one underneath kept at 0.3 inches all year until the end of cores on the tees and fairways. We have encourages early recovery. With a September and then we let them grow up lots of fescue and a minimal close cut growing season only five months long, to snow fall. This year was a little rough area so we use the aerway which every edge that can be exploited is. different in that we had to go out and give has solid wedge shaped spikes to open There are courses that scatter straw over them one last cut in last October after a the soil in the cut portion of the rough. the greens and then cover them to sudden growth spurt associated with the Around the end of November we apply the provide an insulated barrier to the worst warm weather and a warm rain. heavy top dressing to the greens. I was weather that winter can come up with. In As you can see, the answers to here to build the course, so we use the the spring covers are rolled back on winter maintenance are as varied as the same growing mix that we started with sunny days and the greens are recovered courses and the individual pockets of and I haven’t found there to be a problem at night. On overcast days the covers are climate that dot the vast geography of this with layering.I like to let the turf harden off left in place. Any straw is either raked up province. going into the winter so we don’t apply by hand or vacuumed off of the greens. Windsor, perhaps,summed it up best. “ It late fall nitrogen to the turf. We do, The spring of 1991 saw many courses works for me!” W.O.G.S.A REPORT Rick Serrao for the W.O.G.S.A. The 1994 W.O.G.S.A. season is now complete. Events were held this year at the following clubs: Niagara Falls Golf Club Host: Brett Jenkins Flamborough Hills Golf Club Host: Todd Shepperd Galt Country Club Host: Mark Piccolo Puslinch Lake Golf Club Host: Jim Moore These events were well attended with an average of 40 players. Most of the discussions this year centered on the safety issues and concerns that are affecting the golf industry. In September our Taylor Barnes event was held at the Cherry Hill Golf Club in Fort Erie, and despite Mother Nature's attempts to spoil the day we managed to see the sun set just in time for the shotgun start. A round of applause for the Superintendents who offered their courses this year. You are all to be commended for doing a fine job of preparing your courses for us and for your members. The calendar for 1995 is nearing completion. Watch future newsletters for dates. Anyone interested in holding an event for the 1996 season should contact Rick Serrao at (905) 578-3075. See you at the Guelph Symposium and all the best in 1995. You can't beat THE SYSTEM Once you've tried the new lightweights, you'll agree... "You just can't beat THE SYSTEM!" Looking for a lightweight fairway mowing • Liquid-cooled diesel power — 25.5 hp on the 3215 and 32 hp on the 3235. system that can handle virtually every turf • 22-inch cutting units — standard and heavy-duty. and seasonal condition on your course? Look no further... • 7-bladed reels standard, 8-bladed ESP System available on 3235. • 5-inch-diameter and 7-inch-diameter cutting units available on 3235. With more than 10,000 hours of field • Cutting units feature unique RFS (Rotate For Service) suspension system. testing, the 3215 Turf System I and the • Standard on-board backlapping with reel speed control for precise 3235 Turf System II mowers have proven sharpening and even cutting. themselves dependable and efficient. Check out these features and then give us a call for your own field test... To setup up your trial run, see your John Deere pro! R.R. #1, PETROLIA 844-2360 Whats been going on at the GALT COUNTRY CLUB The Galt Country Club was originated in 1906, located along the banks of the TURF Grand River in Cambridge, Ontario. Measuring only 6,200 yards, the Par 70 course is known for its narrow, tree lined DRAIN (519) 763-3130 fairways, small greens and relaxing views of the Grand River. In the years preceding INC. 1992, the possibilty existed that a bridge and roadway might be constructed through the golf course. The purpose of this would be reduce the traffic flow through Cambridge, from highway 401 to Hamilton. This situation deterred any possible plans for course improvements, thus the course had begun to deteriorate over the years. Members were leaving to go to other courses in the area and the number of rounds had significantly decreased, as had revenues. Early plans for relocation had begun as some potential sites for a new course had been toured. In the spring of 1992, a report was produced stating that funding for the construction of the bridge and roadway would not be available for the project until approximately the year 2015, at which time the situation would be re-evaluated. The Board of Directors decided it was time to improve the course, and a motion to assess the general membership to RENOVATION WITH ALL THE TRAPPINGS raise 500,000 dollars was passed by a slim margin of approximately 53% at the TURF DRAIN INC. BUNKER RECONSTRUCTION membership meeting. In the fall of 1992 the installation of a new Rainbird Master 2 irrigation system began replacing the manual quick coupler system. I was hired in the middle of the installation process. Once the irrigation had been installed, the remaining funds were to go to improving the cart path system, improving the par three tees, and finally addressing the problem of our bunkers. During the 1993 season, we developed a plan to address all paths on the course. All slopes were to be paved, timber was used to line the sides of tees and remaining paths were reshaped, edges sodded and screenings placed on top. We hired Turf Drain Inc. to build several new par three tee decks in the fall, trying to increase their size and smooth out the surfaces. In the fall of 1993, preliminary planning had began on the restoration of GO WITH THE FLOW! our bunkers. This would become the most controversial part of the improvement TURF DRAIN INC. DRAINAGE INSTALLATION plan. Members felt only sand replacement was necessary, but it was obvious that we had three major problems with our bunkers. Continued on page 18 GALT COUNTRY CLUB more "in tune" with the course. I preferred that superintendents over the years have Continued from page 17 the "S" sand for its lower maintenance, had a tendency to simplify bunkers on the and I too felt it would hold better on the golf course for maintenance reasons, and Firstly, portions of the course were flashes. Our greens committee and by doing so have taken away much of the built on bedrock which limited the players committee decided to use Ohio aesthetic value the bunkers give to a drainage of the bunkers. Several bunkers based for its colour, its proven playability, course. Our new bunkers are definitely would hold water for days after a rain. and its economic value as a possible more labour intensive, but the aesthetic Secondly, the bunker material had drawing power for new members. At value, the added character, and the new become contaminated with rocks and sub times the phase "Ohio Sand" is used very challenges for the golfer make them soil, and the edges of the bunkers had broadly and is one of many status worth the effort. lost their shape. We felt much of the symbols golfers use to compare their An issue we have had to deal with contamination was caused by the water facility with others, which may also have over the past year in regards to the spring puddling in the bunkers, thus creating a aided in their decision. built bunkers is the plugging of the ball on soup type mixture, easier for particles to The construction process was rather the flashes. The patience of the move around it. Finally, there was a mix simple. Carrick would paint the new sand membership has grown thin. Much of this of designs on the course. There were line and give mounding and flash heights problem is due to the fact that the sand several original bunkers which Stanley to the skid steer operator along with the has not had time to settle. We Thompson had designed when he laid out depth of the bunker. The bunker was compacted the sand and water it, and the course in 1906, Bob Moote and roughed in using the existing bunker even used wetting agents to help speed Associates made modifications to the material available. On several bunkers up the compaction process. Balls were course in the mid 1960's and various the bedrock determined the depth of the still plugging on the flashes. Carrick's superintendents over the years had bunkers. Once the rough-in phase was design concept is that the ball should included their own ideas. It was important done, the bunkers were approved by bounce off the flash and roll back into the to bring consistency back to the golf Carrick and the sand lines were flat portion of the bunker. To compensate course. Carrick and Associates were repainted. Drainage was installed and for this, we removed sand from the hired to develop a master plan for the golf sumps were dug a few feet from the flashes until we could throw a ball against course which would keep the integrity of bunker. The tile drained into the pit and the flash and have it roll down. the original Thompson design in tact. We all tile ends were brought to the surface Unfortunately this leaves us with less found both Doug and Ian easy to work and capped, to allow an access if than 2 inches of sand on the flashes until with, and open to our many ideas and pumping was ever required. All drainage the sand firms up and it means that suggestiions. Board members liked the lines were photographed and filed for contamination may be a problem. We restoration work that Carrick had done at reference. The sandlines were formed hope that the winter will help settle the Islington Golf Club, which aided in the using 5 mm mahogany plywood cut into sand, and in doing so prevent the balls decision to hire Carrick to do our design 6" strips, and held into place with stakes from plugging. Training the staff to rake work. pounded into the ground. This ensured a the bunkers properly will also be an A preliminary walk through the clean edge and stabilized the edges until important part of keeping the sand firm. I course in the fall with Doug and our the sod had a chance to root properly. It think that its important to rake the Greens Committee was very informative also held the soil stable while watering of bunkers only when needed, thus for the committee as they got a feel for the sod took place. In future construction minimizing the disruption of the sand as Doug's ideas and a sense of what the we may use something more flexible for much as possible. There is a lot of new look of the course would be. Over the tight curves to give us a smoother movement within our bunkers and it is the winter, meetings were held to educate edge than that given by the wood. The very easy to move too much sand around the committee and reinforced the notion sub-base was cmpacted, and in rocky or in them. that total renovation was the only way to course soil conditions, a layer of clay was Improvements will continue at the eliminate the problems we had with the compactd on the base of the bunker to Galt Country Club. Tree planting and bunkers.We also felt this was our chance prevent contamination of the sand. maintenance, tee restoration, sodding to enhance the charactor of the course Topsoil was applied at a depth of 6 to 10 portions of the rough, and overseeding and to modernize. Turf Drain Inc. was inches around the bunder and blended with bent grass are annual projects now. hired to make the changes to our bunkers into the surrounding area. The bunker Long range planning to improve blind which we would begin in late April of sand was placed at a depth of 3 to 4 spots on two of our holes and possible 1994. Turf Drain had done some tee work inches throughout the bunker. Finally, pond work are areas we may address in for us in the fall and had worked the area was sodded. the future. frequently with Carrick, thus we felt they A total of 20 bunkers were Carrick and Associates and Turf would work well together. constructed in the spring of 1994. With Drain Inc. both did excellent work for us. The last major decision to be made approval from the membership, the Our membership is looking forward to was sand type. The two options we remaining funds were raised to complete next season and a break in the narrowed it down to were the Hutcherson the remaining 17 bunkers this past construction. Communication is the key. "S" sand, and the Ohio based sand 1600 October. The high flashes and mounding Changes can be difficult to pass through A. Members were able to play from both are very different from what was here memberships, but may be necessity as in sands before the decision was to be before. We have gone from using a sand our case. We now enjoy a full made. Carrick suggested using the native pro and triplex rough mowing equipment, membership and more rounds then we based Hutcheson sand because of its to hand raking and owning a small fleet of can handle. ability over Ohio sand to hold onto the air-cushion mowers. In a discussion I flashes, and for its colour which might be once had with Hugh Kirkpatrick of Mark Piccolo Westmount Golf Club, it was concluded Superintendent Galt Country Club GALT COUNTRY CLUB IMPROVEMENTS TURFGRASS EXCELLENCE Home lawns to country estates, from parks to playgrounds...football fields to golf courses...land reclaiming to sod production...you can count on Oseco turfgrass cultivars for top performance. Need a specially blended grass seed mixture or packaged seed for retail sale? Talk to the turfseed specialists from Oseco. TEL: (905) 846-5080 P.O. BOX 219, Brampton, ON L6V 2L2 1-800-668-5080 FAX: (905) 846-6909 The Toro Greensmaster 3100. So Quiet You Can Hear A Pin Drop. At only 82 decibels, the lightest Toro Greensmaster riding greens 3100 has to mower on the be heard to market, so there’s lower be believed. compaction and less turf damage for We’d like to come out and let you and better playability. your crew see, and hear, how it works Your crew will love the on your greens. responsiveness of our precise power Your maintenance steering. And your whole team chief, for will appreciate the assurance of example, will Turf Guardian™ hydraulic oil leak notice that detection. all major parts Give us a call to arrange a demo are accessible, so of the 3100. Because until you test this repairs can be made quickly and easily. mower in person, you You’ll notice that this is the ain’t heard nothin’. TURF CARE TURF CARE PRODUCTS CANADA LIMITED 200 Pony Drive, Newmarket, Ontario L3Y 7B6 Tel: (905) 836-0988 Fax: (905) 836-6442