Quarterly April, 1993 Voi. 22, No. 4 The newsletter from the Northern Michigan Turf Managers Association GCSAA AFFILIATE President's Message NMTMA WOW! What an educational day! Nothing short of first class. I'm talking about the April EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 5, 1993 mini conference held in Grayling. President Compliments to Mike Meindertsma and the rest of the Northern Michigan Turf Managers Jeffrey Holmes Board of Directors. This group of people have worked hard to provide you, the members, with beneficial information. Vice-President Michael Morris If you haven't taken the time to attend these monthly meetings, I would highly recommend it. Our industry continues to change Executive Secretary rapidly. The way to keep up with change is to attend seminars, Thomas J. Reed 3733 Apollo Dr. such as ours, that share regulation updates and cultural practices. Traverse City, Ml 49684 Most seminars offer recertification credits toward your pesticide Phone 616-943-8343 applicator license. _ On Monday, April 5, 1993, once again, our meeting covered Directors President Jeffrey Holmes several topics in which each of us needs to be educated. Kathy Antaya The day started with an in-depth discussion on grease and oil Jeff Dorrell Tom Heid properties, and how to select the right product for your application. There are certainly Brian Holmes many considerations and concerns when selecting grease or oil. Paul Holmes After learning how to lubricate our equipment we became more aware of how to repair Kimberly Olson David Little, CCCS our equipment properly. Pat Collins shared some valuable information about paint prod­ Jon Maddern uct safety, prepping procedures for paint application and what type of finish you can put Michael Meindertsma David Pretznow on a vehicle or piece of equipment. Certainly, with spring upon us, we need to knock the dust off our irrigation pumps and get ready to go. Tom Dunbar walked us through the proper procedures for spring mainte­ Past Presidents nance and startup of the pump station. It was interesting to note that our new knowledge Ed Karcheski C.E. "Tuck- Tate, CGCS of grease and oil came in handy when we talked David Longfield, CGCS Jonathon Scott, CGCS Inside This Issue: about irrigation pump maintenance. The remainder of the day was covered by Dr. Tom Brogger Page Jim Crum, Dr. Paul Reike, and Greg Lymen from Does One Matter?................................... 2 Michigan State University. These three gentlemen MTF Liaison Mechanic's Perspective.......................... 2 covered enough information in three hours to Jon Maddern Can We See the Forest For the Trees? ..4 give us homework for three weeks. As always, Proper Planting Care................................5 they provided us with an enormous amount of in­ GCSAA Liaison Jon Maddern New Golf Course Maintenance book... 6 formation. Topics discussed were: distribution of Soil-the Miracle we take for Granted ...7 acid nutrients, protecting water quality, and regu­ Newsletter Editor GCSAA elects 93-94 Board.................... 8 lation updates on Regulations 636, 637, and 640. Michael Morris Environmental Issues and Golf...............9 The regulation updates were enough to put a per­ P.O. Box 1575 son to work full time. Frankfort, Ml 49635 NMTMA/GCSAA Seminar in '94......... 10 Well, this has only been the tip of the iceberg Winners of Golf Writers Contest........ 11 as far as the information that was covered. I hope Tips on Writing Memos....................... 12 this will entice more of you to attend our great New USGA Guidelines for Greens .... 13 seminars. In addition, by attending two of our Bunker Sand Testing.............................13 seminars this year, you would have picked up 10 Tips for Pesticide Soiled Clothes... 15 five credits toward your recertification for pesti­ '93 Mechanic's Meetings.....................15 cide application. Simple Ground Squirrel Control........ 17 Have a great spring! Controlling Borers on White Birch.....18 Jeffrey Holmes, President Does One Matter? How often are you asked the In order for us to excel as professionals in the Northern question "does one really mat­ Michigan Turfgrass Managers Association, it will require ter?" I would expect that most more participation and involvement from each and every in­ would agree that in the work­ dividual member. place each individual/employee If you have any doubts about how important you are to has some degree of effect on how our association, just consider the following article. (I will well or efficient your particular give you a hint. If you replace the x with an e the article will operation runs. The success of read quite well.) your business is often a result of teamwork. Without teamwork, Doxs Onx Mattxr? along with the dedication and Evxn though my typxwritxr is an old modxl, it works quitx Tom Heid commitment of each individual, wxll, xxcxpt for onx kxy. I havx wishxd many timxs that it one's business is likely to fail in workxd pxrfxctly. It is trux that thxrx arx forty-fivx kxys that some fashion. function wxll xnough, but onx not working makxs all thx In this ever-changing and demanding field of turfgrass diffxrxncx. management, professionals recognized the need to work to­ Thxrx arx timxs whxn an organization is somxwhat likx gether in solving various problems and issues, while striving my typxwritxr. . . not all thx kxy pxoplx arx working propxr- to succeed in providing a quality product to the public. This ly. You say to yoursxlf, "Wxll, I am only onx pxrson, I won't particular need resulted in the formation of the professional makx or brxak an organization." association known as the NMTMA. But it doxs makx a diffxrxncx bxcausx any organization, As in the need for teamwork in the workplace, the success to bx xffxctivx, nxxds thx participation of xvxry mxmbxr. of your association also depends on individual support. Sup­ So thx nxxt timx you think your xfforts arx not nxxdxd, port can be measured in many ways with "individual in­ think of my typxwritxr and say to yoursxlf, "I am a kxy volvement" being the main criteria for achieving success. pxrson in this group, and I am nxxdxd vxry much!" Mechanic's Perspective: A Practical Approach For Making Your Own Tractor Weights by David W. Pretznow, McGuire's Resort During the winter months, we at McGuires Resort be­ sort, had some new thoughts on the subject. We would take come involved with snow removal from parking lots, etc. empty 55 gallon blue plastic apple juice barrels, fabricate One problem that we used to face was that our rear wheel the hook-up points out of rolled steel bar stock and flat bar drive tractor/loaders would always experience loss of trac­ stock, and fill these barrels with concrete. The best part of tion due to the slippery surfaces they were operating on. this plan is that whenever concrete is ordered for the resort, Even with tire chains and loaded tires, our operators found there are always a few yards left over as waste. We just have themselves spinning when moving from forward to reverse the barrels ready, and when an order for concrete is placed, and vice versa. We needed to find a method which would the truck is directed to the maintenance building to empty add weight to the rear ends of the tractors. These weights the extra concrete into the barrels. needed to be easy to make, and be easy to put on and take After the concrete has set up the weight can be put on the off. tractor. Each weight has been estimated to weigh between We decided to utilize the three point hitch on the back of 1,500 and 2,000 pounds. This solved the spinning problem, the tractors to hold the new weights. While this is not a new and the tractors' hydraulics handle the new weights with idea, Ron Greenman, Head Golf Course Mechanic at the re­ ease. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS For Sale: 125 hp Berkley Pump. Contact Scott Kuhlman at (616) 535-2506. 2 C Mechanic's Corner ) By Ken Hand, Head Mechanic, Cadillac C.C. A typical problem with older gas-engined Jacobsen F-1O's is keeping the front radiator clear of grass clippings. Large amounts of clippings collect against the front of the radiator even with good shields on the mowers. Operators must reg­ SAVE ularly open the radiator shield and remove these clippings TIME • WATER • MONEY or overheating occurs. We found a simple solution by cover­ ing the outside of the factory installed shield with window Get your course on AXIS screen. The small mesh keeps the clippings from reaching the American made porous ceramic the radiator and doesn't hold clippings even when they're wet. Incorporate AXIS Into the root zone Aerify or Rototill --------------------------------------------------------------------------------\ • Increase the gas exchange in the soil Letters to the Editor • • Resist compaction Increase water holding You can communicate directly with the NMTMA and • Increase percolation your fellow members by writing to: Turf Times Exclusive Distributor of c/o Mike Morris Break-Thru, a non ionic wetting agent PO Box 1575 Agroroots/Marine-Gro organic biostimulants Frankfort, Ml 49635 AXIS a diatomaceous earth soil amendment Share your thoughts and feelings about our (616)847-1200 (616)249-9440 organization or the industry in general. I____________________________________ 7 \___________________J ^FLORIDA • GEORGIA • ILLINOIS • INDIANA • KENTUCKY • MICHIGAN • WISCONSIN ' OLF’S IRRIGATIOl FLORIDA o o co • GEORGIA • ILLINOIS • INDIANA • KENTUCKY • MICHIGAN • WISCONSIN z How CRA Helps Superintendents: < 0 ROADBUILDINGPL US X o ll^Somplete stock of irrigation supplies 2 CONSTRUCTION SERVICES: ¿¿Water conservation analysis & troubleshooting CLEARING, GRADING, SHAPING, BUNKERS, CART £ o ¿¿Assistance In pumping Improvement PATHS z and pumping cost efficiency LU CREATING SPECIALTY SANDS: * ...Drainage solutions TOP DRESSING & BUNKER SAND < ¿¿Fountains • Aerators • Pump Management Golf Course Construction Since 1977 Q ¿¿improvements of energy-usage cost Request for References Encouraged CO ¿¿Technical Assistance o z ROADBUILDINGPLUS Asphalt Paving • Concrete (Century "rain "aidJ Paving • Excavation • Airports • Golf Courses • Site Devel­ < opment • Tennis Courts • Sand & Gravels • Underground 0 FREE CATALOGI (X Utilities • Plus, Plus, o LU 0 1 -800-347-4272 H&D INC., 2081 W. CHARLEVOIX AVE., PETOSKEY, Ml 49770 < Ann Arbor, Ml 46104 Grand Saplds, Ml 49512 Madton Heights, Ml46071 Southfield, Ml 46034 Q (616) 347-2547 CC O 2461$. Industrial Hwy. (313)666-1020 Fax (313) 666-7143 462040th St., S.E (616)954-0660 Fax (616) 954-0664 31691 Dequlndre (313)566-2990 22159 Jelegraph (313) 356-2994 Fax (313) 566-3526 Fax (313) 356-1022 • FLORIDA • GEORGIA • ILLINOIS • INDIANA • KENTUCKY • MICHIGAN • WISCONSIN 3 Can We See the Forest For The next generation in the Trees? fertilizer performance. By David W. Pretznow, Superintendent, McGuires Resort From time to time I like to reflect on how my operation is running. It is easy to concentrate on the obvious. Are cultural practices producing the desired effects? Is the equipment be­ ing maintained properly? How is the irrigation system func­ tioning? Is everything being watered properly? Far too often, other small, maybe insignificant things, can and usually do become overlooked. They might not be the most obvious, but may be very critical nevertheless. These Compared to SCU fertilizers, Poly-SiM technology offers: might even vary greatly from place to place, depending on • Best Fertilizer Value - With its unprecedented Poly-S the size and scope of our different operations. technology, Scottsr can offer you the performance of a poly­ For instance: mer-coated fertilizer at a price comparable to SCU products. • Are operators turning off their equipment when refueling? • Nutrient Efficiency - Poly-S technology provides • Are operators smoking while refueling? higher nutrient efficiency than SCU fertilizers, with the • Do our employees wear eye protection every time they capability for a consistent, programmed linear nutrient re­ lease unattainable with SCU. use a grinder or a weedeater? • Environmentally Compatible Performance - With • When our mechanics or assistants are grinding reels and Poly-S technology, there’s minimal potential for leaching, bedknives, do they wear eye protection, respirators, hear­ run-off and volatilization, with a significant reduction in ing protection, etc.? clippings associated with surge growth. • Are we calibrating our spraying or spreading equipment • “User-Friendly” Application - Each Poly-S fertilizer is frequently enough, or even at all? Does everyone even specially designed for use with a broadcast spreader, with no know how to calibrate the different types of spreaders? conditioner and no wax, eliminating the potential for lumps, • Are we disposing of waste oil, antifreeze, batteries, etc., wax build-up and other application problems. with the proper and approved methods? It is the most efficient—and cost-effective — turf fertilizer These and many more things of this nature are probably no­ technology ever developed. For more informa­ ticed by us every day. But do we address them or just ignore tion about Poly-S fertilizers and their perfor­ them? It is essential that we critique ourselves and our opera­ mance advantages, contact your ScottTech Rep. ProTurf tions on a daily basis. Not only will we produce superior turf Or call 1-800-543-0006. and playing conditions, we will also be helping and insuring __________________ _________________________ y that we do this in a safe and responsible manner. HANDS ON PURCHASING.........A WAREHOUSE ON WHEELS (616) 943-8343 "We Bring Our Products To You” i---------- 3751 Blair Town Hall Rd. Traverse City, Ml 49684 Suppliers of Quality Products A Total Turf Care Distributor To The Turfgrass Industry • Consulting • Technical Information • Chemicals • Fungicide Programs • Fertilizers • Fertilizer Programs • Grass Seed • Soil Management Programs • Golf Supplies • Soil Testing • Safety Equipment • Parts & Accessories Call Tom Reed Sr • Tom Reed Jr. • Soil Management Materials Eric Denoyer • Robert Reed • Jim Surge • Soil Construction Materials •Top Dressing Materials (616) 943-8343 4 Proper Planting and Post-Planting Care Are Keys to Establishing Trees and Shrubs Successfully By Bob Mugaas, Minnesota Extension Service PREPARATION AND PLANTING eventually grow. Too much soil amendment can create moisture gradients and cause roots to be confined to the Successful planting starts with proper site preparation. planting hole. Remove rocks and debris from the hole and Digging the hole for a new plant is the first step. The hole never put rocks or gravel in the bottom of the hole to im­ should be at least 1 -2 feet wider than the size of the root sys­ prove drainage unless it is connected to a drain tile. tem (except for direct tree spade planted trees). A larger hole Proper fertilization provides plants with the elements they will allow better root growth, especially in poor soil. Rough require for survival and growth. A balanced or complete fer­ up the sides of the hole as wide or wider at the bottom than tilizer is usually recommended for tree fertilization. Trees at the top. and shrubs should be fertilized at the time of planting with a Planting depth is critical. For heavy soils, trees and shrubs slow release, complete fertilizer, preferably one high in should be planted at, or slightly higher than, the depth that phosphorus. Fertilizer should not be placed directly on the they grew in the nursery. In poorly drained soils, plants roots, but should be mixed with the backfill. It is best to use should be planted slightly higher, with soil mounded up to a slow-release fertilizer and fertilizer briquettes at the time cover the roots. Allow for settling, especially if the hole has of planting. These will not burn the roots and will have long­ been dug deep and backfilled. Air pockets should be elimi­ er-lasting effects. Follow label directions. nated by watering during and after backfilling. Poor soils can be amended with organic material or loamy top soil de­ PLANTING THE PLANT pending on the improvement needed. Peat is not recom­ mended for poorly drained, clayey soils, as it can act as a Bare Root and Packaged Stock: Examine the stock and sump and draw too much water into the planting hole. Nev­ prune away any diseased or damaged roots or branches. Dig er completely backfill with a soil amendment; only create a the planting hole and backfill with enough soil to hold the transition zone to the existing soil where the roots must continued on next page Beck Sod Fnw Tee Time® Quality Turf Care Products (517) 864-3549 • Greens Grade Fertilizers with Nutralene • Fairway Fertilizers Quality Sod Shade Mix Fertilizer with with Nutralene NUTRALENE* • Quality Sulfur Coated the professional’s Bluegrass Blend • Northern Mix partner Area Fertilizers • Combination Products • Granular Insecticides • GOLF GREENS MIX • Granular Fungicides Distributed by : • SHADE TREES TURFGRASS, INC. Call Toll Free: P.O. Box T 1-800-521-8873 or BULK HORTICULTURAL 28064 Pontiac Trail (313) 437-1427 PEAT MOSS S. Lyons, Ml 48178 (Call Collect) 5 Proper Planting & New Book on Maintenance Post-Planting Care for Golf Courses continued from previous page Trey Rogers of Michigan State University will be edit­ ing a book entitled Superintendents' Handbook for Golf plant slightly higher than the depth it was growing in the Course Maintenance and Construction. The book will be nursery. Tamp the soil and center trees with the largest published by Lewis Publishers. It will consist of a "cook­ branches facing southwest. Straighten the roots and spread book" format with the chapter topics divided into putting them evenly. Cover the roots with soil, avoiding any clods, greens, fairways, roughs, wildlife management, equip­ rocks, etc. Gently raise and lower the plant while adding ment, I PM, etc. Each chapter will consist of "contributions" of mainte­ soil to eliminate air pockets. When the hole is three-quarters nance and construction practices that superintendents full, tamp the soil and fill with water. This should take care have successfully used at their golf courses. Contributions of any remaining air pockets. Finish filling the hole with soil, will cover areas from tee marker strategy, to philosophy and then water thoroughly. for green committee meetings, to how to build a retainer wall. Contributions will be 1-5 pages in length, and will include photographs to aid in describing the practice. Balled & Burlapped (B&B): Carefully set the plant in the Contributions at all levels from superintendents across hole at or slightly higher than it was at the nursery. The root the country will be accepted and reviewed by an editorial flare and the top of the ball will indicate original planting board of distinguished superintendents. All contributions depth. Take extra care not to loosen or break the soil ball. will receive full credit. Fill the hole three-quarters full, tamping to remove air pock­ This is an excellent opportunity to give back to the in­ ets. Cut and remove all twine from around the trunk. Pull dustry, and to receive full recognition now and forever in a published form. burlap away from the trunk and top of ball. Water slowly to For more information and/or to receive a contribution saturate the soil ball and to remove air pockets in the back­ packet, please write: fill. Finish filling the hole with soil. No burlap should remain HANDBOOK FOR SUPERINTENDENTS above the soil surface as it may act like a wick and dry the P.O. Box 799 root ball. Evergreens should not be planted later than Octo­ Okemos, Ml 48805-0799. ber so the roots will have a chance to become established. Container Grown and Containerized Stock: Carefully re­ move the container at the planting site. Cutting the contain­ er may be necessary. Remove all containers, including bio­ degradable paper-mache pots. Newly containerized stock may be only slightly rooted; the container must be removed with great care so as to not disturb the root ball. In contrast, container grown stock may be rootbound. If roots are grow­ ing in a spiral around the soil ball, the plant is rootbound. These roots need to be separated or they will eventually gir­ dle the plant. Make vertical cuts on the side of the ball just deep enough to cut the net of roots. Also make a criss-cross cut across the bottom of the ball. Plant the plant the same as a B&B plant. Tree Spade: The use of mechanical tree spades has be­ come a common method of tree planting. Trees should be • Superior Traction - Engine over drive wheels (4WD also available watered thoroughly before moving to hydrate the plant and to avoid soil sifting out during transport. The sides of the • Simple bedknife and reel adjustment - No tools required. planting holes should be roughed up with a shovel, rake, • Excellent visabiIity - no tools required etc., to break up compaction caused by the spade. Trees • Quick transport between fairways - 15 mph transport should be placed at or slightly higher than the original grade speed. to allow for settling. After planting, work loose soil into the • No footprinting in wet conditions - adjustable cutting unit area between the hole and the tree plug, and water thor­ down pressure. oughly. Call for Demo Lawn Equipment Service and Sales, Inc. 313-858-7700 151 N. Perry 517-732-8841 Credit - Hole Notes, 5/91 Pontiac, Ml 48342 Parts Express 1-800-231-LAWN 6 Soil - The Miracle We Take for Granted by Peter Steinhart It is one of America's most vital resources - a foundation into the top few inches of earth, we would be dumbstruck of life. Every cubic inch holds a billion beneficial with its mystery and vitality. creatures. Yet we bury it under concrete and let it wash There is enormous variety to soil. Experts say that are away. We poison it and neglect if and then play politics some 15,000 different soil types in the U.S., and perhaps with it. We treat it like dirt, although we clearly can't hundreds of thousands worldwide. They differ on the basis survive without it. of the kind of rock that weathered into clay and sand to Of all the Earth's resources, the one we take most for form the soil, the mix of organic matter inside it, the granted is soil. It is so everywhere around us, brown and amount of water, the texture and the age. There are rust prosaic, so easily found and so easily wasted. Perhaps red soils of the tropics, from which most of the soluble that's why so many of us think of soil only in the abstract aluminum and iron has been leached. There are dark -as something farmers use to feed us. brown loams in the U.S. Midwest that are made of Those of us who live in the cities are aware of soil only materials scoured off the top crust of Canada and pushed when it becomes dirt, smudged onto our clothes after a southward by ancient glaciers. There are North American picnic or carried into the house on our shoes. Then it is soils built largely from ancient silts, blown here from Asia considered matter out of place and something to get rid on prehistoric winds. There are places where the soil is of. 200 feet deep and places where it is but a thin film on We bulldoze it out of the way to make highways and to top of rock. erect shopping centers. We ignore its frailty when we cut Living soil is full of air passages that let oxygen, carbon timber of build houses on hillsides. And then it comes dioxide, and nitrogen circulate. A well-aerated soil may be back to haunt us when it clogs our drains, clouds our almost half airspace by volume. There are acres of surface drinking water, causes floods or simply falls away beneath area on the particles of sand and clay. Films of moisture the footings of our homes. cling to those surfaces, forming ponds and atmospheres The truth is that soil is a resource of astonishing that nurture a vast array of bacteria, fungi, viruses and balance, complexity, beauty and frailty. If we could protozoans. A cubic inch of soil can contain literally narrow our vision down to microscopic detail and tunnel billions of creatures. We know many of these creatures because they cause or cure disease. The bacterium Clostridium tetani, for instance, causes tetanus, while another, Clostridium botulinum, causes botulism. Soil fungi have given us penicillin. Actinomycetes, which are responsible for the sweet toasty aroma of freshly turned earth, provide such useful antibiotics as streptomycin. But the teeming life of the soil has far more powerful significance than disease or medicine. For it is the bacteria and fungi in the soil that break down the complex YOUR COMPLETE LINE OF IRRIGATION molecules of dead organic matter, the cellulose and lignin PRODUCTS AND SERVICES of wood and leaf, into molecules which plants can use for food. Only the microbes can take the salts out of soil THE LEADER THAT WORKS minerals and make them available to plants. Only bacteria FOR YOU can oxidize ammonia into nitrite. 90% OF ALL AUTOMATIC GOLF COURSE SYSTEMS There are other soil creatures with which we are more IN WESTERN AND NORTHERN MICHIGAN ARE familiar. Moles and earthworms, burrowing crickets and insect larvae all tunnel through the soil, moving vast amounts of dirt, rearranging it, compacting it here and “TORO” opening up air and water passages there. Their digging continually changes the habitat for microbes. One day THE RIGHT CHOICE! there may be billions of one kind of bacteria, and the next day they may be replaced by an entirely different species. Waterlogging may choke out those which depend on air Spartan Distributors, Inc. and favor those which thrive without it. There may be 487 W. DIVISION ST. • P.0. BOX 246 • SPARTA, MICHIGAN 49345 thousands of species lying dormant, waiting for the right conditions. Thus, an activity like plowing can cause the 616-887-7301 number of organisms to proliferate thirtyfold is a few days. s__________________________________________________ > Continued on next page 7 Soil - The Miracle We Take for Granted Continued from previous page bad for soil. When we take away the vegetative cover by There is an enormous commerce in chemicals going using a plow, we leave the soil open to the forces of on in the ground. Microbes and fungi make nutrients wind and rain. available to plants. Some also attack plants and cause We are now losing topsoil at a rate of about six billion them to wilt and die. Some use up essential minerals and tons a year in the United States, and more worldwide. thus retard plant growth. Other microbes boost plant The causes are varied. Too many farmers plow up and growth by liberating more nitrogen or phosphorus or down hillsides, leaving furrows that turn into gullies when potassium. And there are bacteria which provide plants it rains. Too many speculators are plowing up dry lands with growth hormones. or steep lands that should not be farmed. Too many Soil microbes also dispose of sewage and some kinds farmers are abandoning traditional crop rotations that of trash. In laboratories, we see that the right sequence once rebuilt overworked soils. Too many developers are of bacteria can break down oil. And studies in the field careless with bulldozers. have shown that some soil microbes can consume up to The consequences of such actions could be enormous 99 percent of the DDT sprayed on them within a few in the years ahead. Ours is already a hungry world. If, as weeks. But it doesn't always work. Other soil microbes the experts believe, one-third of the Earth's cropland is will refuse to "digest" a pesticide as adamantly as a child eroding faster than nature can replace the soil, we are may refuse to eat spinach. And too often toxic chemicals losing productivity. We may cultivate the same number of get into groundwater before any bacteria can get to acres, but as the soil gets thinner, we will harvest less them. food from it. And we will see more streams silting, more Healthy soil has millions of possibilities: decomposers, fish species vanishing, more sediment filling our lakes. benefactors, curatives, tiny chemical factories. But so If we are to turn things around, we are going to have complex and minute is the life of soil, and so remote are to make some choices. And to make these choices, we its inhabitants from our eyes, that we do not think of it will have to understand that soil is not a commodity but as a living world. Rather, we think of it as a a habitat. And we are going to have to conserve it much manufactured commodity. Plow it right, water it right, the way we go about conserving other habitats - by add a little nitrogen here and a little phosphorus there, thinking of it as part of the immense and complex variety and, we think, things will grow. of life. Unfortunately, we are finding out that it doesn't always work that way. Much of our technology turns out to be Credit: National Wildlife, Feb.-Mar. 1985 GCSAA elects their 1993-94 Board of Directors Randy Nichols, CGCS, Cherokee Town & Country Club, Appointed to the board was R. Scott Woodhead, CGCS, Dunwoody, Georgia, was elected president of the Golf Valley View Golf Club, Bozeman, Montana. Woodhead will Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) serve the remaining year on Baidy's term as director. Baidy's during the association's recent annual meeting in Anaheim, director position was vacated when he was elected vice California. president. Nichols succeeds William R. Roberts, CGCS, Lochmoor Paul S. McGinnis, CGCS, Union Hills Country Club, Sun Club, Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan, who as immediate City, Arizona, and Bruce R. Williams, CGCS, Bob O'Link past president will continue to serve on the board for the Golf Club, Highland Park, Illinois, have one year remaining next year. on their terms and will continue serving as directors. Joseph G. Baidy, CGCS, Acacia Country Club, Lyndhurst, GCSAA officers serve one year terms, and directors are Ohio, was elected vice president. elected to two year terms. Re-elected as a director and appointed secretary/treasurer The title "CGCS," which follows each directors name, was Gary T. Grigg, CGCS, Naples National Golf Club, Na­ stands for Certified Golf Course Superintendent. The CGCS ples, Florida. title recognizes the achievement of high standards of profes­ Elected as directors were David W. Fearis, CGCS, Blue sionalism through education and experience. Hills Country Club, Kansas City, Missouri and George E. Re­ nault III, CGCS, Burning Tree Club, Bethesda, Maryland. Credit: GCSAA News Release, Feb. 18, 1993 8 Environmental Issues and Golf Golf has increasingly been under the microscope, both in well. Several courses in New Jersey have been limited to the daily management of our courses and in the construc­ watering tees and greens in recent summers. tion of new facilities or the renovation of existing ones. The bottom line is that golf must use less water. USGA Many groups oppose new golf courses vehemently - their Green Section research indicates in many cases that more position is that one more course anywhere is a bad idea. For than 50% savings of water can be achieved through better example, construction of the Homestead Golf Course in irrigation systems and more sensible water management. Northern Michigan was an acrimonious confrontation. Pay­ Many golf facilities throughout the country have already re­ ing more attention to the environment as golf is managed duced their irrigation significantly, and the golf industry has without a doubt will make golf more expensive. received the message. What makes the environmental debate so crucial is the wide variety of issues. In a short newsletter we cannot cover 2. CHEMICALS - in addition to runoff into water supplies, them in any detail, but just consider the following list: which is only the beginning, many chemical issues abound. How far do these chemicals move? How long do they last? 1. WATER - pollution of groundwater and surface water is How do they affect vegetation besides turf, like trees and closely watched. Many question how chemicals applied to shrubs? What are the health and safety issues? "Right to our courses could affect streams with runoff or groundwater know" laws, which require posting of which chemicals have through leaching. The primary water concerns are use of been applied to golf courses, are now very commonplace. pesticides and other potential contaminants like gasoline, Golf course superintendents have fewer chemicals availa­ fertilizers, erosion, and thermal pollution. ble to them than in previous years for two reasons - several Both university and governmental research indicate that have been taken off the market due to regulations, and new golf courses do not conribute significantly to groundwater products have been curtailed because of rising development contamination. Many courses filter their water so the water costs. returned to the ground and streams is often in better condi­ Golf course superintendents are well educated in their tion environmentally than when it leaves the tap. craft, as most possess university degrees in agronomy, horti­ The second water issue is irrigation use. This is especially culture, or related fields. Most golf courses have at least one true in desert areas, where water is scarce. However, some person certified by the state for chemical handling and locales in the Northeast and Midwest face limitations as Continued on next page Tire Wholesalers Co., Inc. As our name implies, we are a wholesaler of tires. We are an established business, having been in business for over 22 years. We deliver. We have UPS service daily. We guarantee what we sell. We want your business. We have a huge inventory of Passenger, High Performance Truck, Trailer, Motorcycle, Carlisle Lawn & Garden, Industrial Tires & Tubes, Shocks, Struts, Custom Mag Wheels, i and Accessories,all in stock for immediate ÍMIXD delivery. ■¿mi (Cgjjggjjjjj) >?RMSTROI\I C4RLISL NEW! NEW! NEW! CADILLAC TROY DISTRIBUTION SOUTHFIELD WAREHOUSE CENTER WAREHOUSE 303 1/2 Hawthorne St. 1783 E 14 Mile Road 19240 West 8 Mile Road Cadillac, Ml 49601 Troy, Ml 48083 Southfield, Ml 48075 (616) 775-6666 (313) 589-9910 Phone: (313) 354-9910 Environmental Issues and Golf... Continued from previous page (ACST), which provides advice for the development of habi­ application. Another safeguard to chemical applications is tats on courses for wildlife. At this point, nearly 500 courses their expense. Not using them saves a lot of money! Besides around the country, with 24 in Michigan, are participating. that, nowhere near the average acreage of a golf course - How is the golf community reacting to all these issues? 140 or so - receives any chemical applications at all. On a national level the USGA Green Section has committed $3,200,000 to environmental research projects at universi­ 3. WATER EFFECTS ON PEOPLE AND WILDLIFE - certain ties throughout the country, including Michigan State Uni­ pesticides have resulted in bird-kills and fish-kills, but other versity. The Golf Course Superintendents Association of possible ramifications for animals include behavior, physiol­ America has been very active as well. ogy, reproduction and overall health. Overall, American golf has an excellent track record After LPGA player Heather Farr and LPGA Tournament through the years in protecting the environment while devel­ Director Suzanne Jackson were diagnosed with breast can­ oping high quality playing surfaces. Many of these issues are cer, several LPGA players indicated their overall concern linked to public perception rather than reality, and the emo­ about golf course chemicals and a possible connection to tional climate requires golf to be more proactive and com­ these incidents. A handful of case along these lines have sur­ municative regarding its environmental record. faced. Locally, Michigan state University has led the way in re­ Overall research on these issues is inconclusive, but the search, and funding by member clubs to the Michigan Turf- emotions run very high. grass Foundation is vital to that effort. The four chapters of golf course superintendents - Michigan & Border Cities (De­ 4. LOSS OF "NATURAL" AREAS - many believe golf troit area), Mid-Michigan, Northern Michigan, and Western course construction results in the loss of natural lands, habi­ Michigan - all have key leaders in this area. The Association tat for important wildlife, plant species and other organisms. holds four Green Seminars each March in cooperation with In Northern Michigan, this concern is compounded by con­ the superintendents chapters, and each superintendents struction near wetlands, forests, and other environmentally group holds several seminars of their own. sensitive areas. However, once construction is finalized, The so-called "average golfer" should have a basic under­ many courses serve as wildlife sanctuaries, particularly in standing of the fundamental issues concerning golf and the metropolitan and suburban areas. Canadian geese have ar­ environment. We appreciate the assistance of James T. rived at our courses in Michigan, and it is not unusual to see Snow, National Director, USGA Green Section, who wrote deer on golf courses, even in the Detroit area. a similar article, and William R. Roberts, Immediate Past Among the steps taken are that the USGA has provided a President, GCSAA. grant to the Audobon Society of New York State - for the Credit: GAMbits (News from the Golf Association of Audobon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for golf courses Michigan), September, 1992 NMTMA/GCSAA Seminar Slated for Winter 1994 David J. Little, CGCS N.M.T.M.A. is proud to announce the first annual location, lodging and cost will follow in future publications. N.M.T.M.A. sponsored G.C.S.A.A. Seminar. Combining our We are already working on our 1995 seminar. Following continuing effort to provide quality information to our mem­ our environmental theme we are trying to schedule two bers and our concern for the environment as an association, one-day seminars, running back to back. The two we are we have asked the GCSAA to present: "Protection of Water trying to confirm are: "Wildlife Management and habitat Resources." The seminar is taught by Scott Harrison, Pesti­ conservation" and "Implementing Strategies and Plans for cide Education Coordinator at Penn State University, and Turfgrass Environmental Systems". Dick Parizck, Hydrogeologist at Penn State University. It NMTMA members are responsibly managing many beau­ will cover surface and ground water hydrology, soil geolo­ tiful Northern Michigan properties at this time. These semi­ gy, also water, petroleum and agricultural chemical interac­ nars are an excellent way to pick up or brush up on perti­ tion. This will be a two day seminar earning 14 C.E.U.'s, nent information to help us continue reviewing, revising and held February 23rd and 24th, 1994. More information on improving our management practices. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - Change of Address, Membership Application info available Any member with a change of address should immediately contact Thomas J. Reed at 3733 Apollo Drive, Traverse City, Ml 49684. He should also be contacted if any person would like to apply for membership in NMTMA. 10 Winners announced in r------------------------------ Are your needs as a Superintendent GCSAA golf writers contest supported by your board/owner/manager? Randy Nichols, CGCS, president of the Golf Course Su­ perintendents Association of America (GCSAA), has an­ nounced the winners of the organization's seventh annual Do you have a clear financially-defined vision golf writers contest. of where you and your facility will be in five years? The article chosen by the judges for first place was "The Silent Artists," written by Jody Olson, which appeared in the September/October 1992 issue of Fairways & Greens (Arizo­ na Golf Association). Olson, who is associate editor at Golf Financial analysis Illustrated, will receive an engraved recognition plaque and operating budget a cash prize of $1,000. 5 year capital improvement plan 10 year capital equipment plan Second prize of $600 goes to Doug Saunders for his story, environmental compliance "Simmering in Death Valley's Mega-Heat," which appeared turfgrass management in the August 1992 issue of Golf Course News. renovation The third-place award of $400 goes to Rick Remsnyder for his article, "Keeping the Game Green," which appeared in the May 1992 issue of Suburban Golf Magazine (Gannett Suburban Newspapers - White Plains, N.Y.). Advice that supports the long-term goals GCSAA's awards competition recognizes the writer for journalistic talent and effectiveness in informing the public of the Golf Course Superintendent. about the golf course superintendent's profession. The annu­ al contest is open only to members of the Golf Writers Asso­ ciation of America (GWAA). The winners were presented their plaques and prizes April 4th at the awards banquet during the GWAA's annual cham­ Tom Mead Inc. pionship in Myrtle Beach, S.C.. Golf Course Consulting The contest is independently judged by professors from 10783 S. Dalzell Road, Traverse City, Michigan 49684 the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass 616-929-1213 Communications at the University of Kansas. V_____________________________________________/ — JACOBSEN HUGGETT TEXTRON SOD FARM, INC. Jacobsen Division of Textron. Inc • TOP QUALITY SOD • LF-3810 NUGGET + II (BLUEGRASS BLEND) Grade A or commercial on peat or top soil base SHADE MIX (BLUEGRASS, FESCUE MIX) Good on sandy soils or in shade. PENNCROSS BENT Grown on washed mason sand or loam soil. • DELIVERY • Michigan «Ohio* Indiana • SHADE & ORNAMENTAL TREES • • BULK SPAGNUM PEAT • Grandville n ■lui Kalkaska (800) 432-2763 VALLEY TURF INCORPORATED (517) 635-7482 Tel (616)532-2885 Fax (616)532-5553 4114 East Marlette Rd. • Marlette, Ml 48453 11 MEMO To: Golf Course Superintendent From: Experienced Memo Writer Date: Today Re: Tips on Writing Memos Some of you may sweat over writing memorandums. Oth­ 6. Polish your memo. Once you are comfortable with its ers may find it a delight. Whtever, the more effective you organization, look at the memo's finer points. can make them, the better it will be for yourself as well as 7. Keep the tone of your memo natural. Read it aloud; the recipient of your memos. listen to the language. Does anything sound awkward. De­ Often, a well-written memo can be the difference in per­ pending upon the readers of your memo, you may use an in­ suading someone to your viewpoint or in edging out some­ formal tone ... or a more formal one. one for a new job. 8. Be courteous. Here are some tips: 9. Be factual. 1. Know why you're writing a memo. Write a purpose 10. Be specific. statement to yourself that tells you what you expect your 11. Be brief. readers to do or know when they finish reading your memo. 12. Don't write anything you wouldn't say publicly. Pri­ Refer to your purpose statement as you write to be certain vacy isn't guaranteed, even if you mark a document "per­ you're staying on track. sonal" or "confidential" (Often, sensitive issues are best 2. Quickly let your readers know the reason for your dealt with face-to-face). memo. Get to the point. Keeping people in suspense is for 13. If you write a negative memo, wait a day before mystery novels. sending it. Should you reconsider, shred the memo. . . 3. Anticipate reactions. Chances are your memo should wastebaskets aren't private property. or will be read by anyone interested in the topic it address­ Strong writing skills can gain you visibility and respect. If es. . . or you shouldn't be writing the memo. Consider the you find writing hard, get a good writing handbook. Some perspectives of all the possible readers. diligent effort can improve your spelling and grammar. 4. Answer the questions they may have. . . clearly. If All types of writers continually seek to improve their your memo shows that you are sensitive to other's needs skills. Developing your memo technique is an excellent step and interests, your credibility will be enhanced. toward a good, clear writing style that will benefit you in 5. Does your memo appear to be too long? Take time to many ways. revise it. Be certain you say exactly what you want to say. Extra words dilute the strength of your message. Credit: Hole Notes 8/91 EVEN WHEN IT'S EMPTY, IT'S LOADED. Even in its most basic form Carryall by Club Car offers more standard features than the competi­ tion. Each model is strong and versatile, with plenty of performance options to choose from. There's no better way to load up on quality, dependability and lasting value. Call your nearby authorized Club Car Club Car representative for details on how DRIVE IT TO WORK. Carryall can do it all for you. CLUB CAR, INC. MICHIGAN BRANCH 33025 Industrial Road • Livonia, Michigan 48150 (800) 482-8830 Contact Dave Nelson, Northern Michigan Sales Manager 12 The New USGA Guidelines for Building Greens After months of work involving experts from all over the 10 percent is larger. The key here is that you cannot determine world, the USGA Green Section has put the finishing touches whether or not the intermediate layer is necessary without eval­ on an in-depth overhaul of the "specs" for building greens. The uating the "D" factors of the gravel and root zone sand. Since word "specs" is in quotes since we offer this method of green this work is best done by a professional, physical soil testing lab construction as just that - a method. While we certainly feel it is that is using appropriate lab procedures, it is more important the most scientific and proven method, we constantly remind than ever before to submit your materials to the lab well prior folks that we offer these construction guidelines as a service to to construction. the industry, not as a mandate. The USGA does not make a Finally, when you are considering a green(s) construction dime from people choosing this method. One of the key as­ project, pick up the phone and call your local Green Section pects of the USGA Green Section's mission is to promote better office. The agronomic staff of the USGA is anxious to help playing conditions within the bounds of proven agronomic make your project a complete success - regardless of how you principles. These new guidelines for building greens are 100% choose to build your greens. consistent with that goal. Credit: USGA Green Section Mid-Continent News, March 1, 1993 There are a couple of points you should keep in mind when you review the new guidelines. The intermediate sand layer will still be required in many greens projects. The parameters for the gravel and root zone mix are very "tight" when the intermediate layer is not to be used. If you are lucky enough to be in an area where such ideally sized materials can be found, you can leave the layer out. However, most areas are not so fortunate to have perfectly matched gravel and root zone sands. The intermediate layer will still be necessary in these cases. Next, to properly evaluate the compatibility of the root zone to the gravel, the "D" factors of both materials must be deter­ mined. The "D" number of a sand or gravel refers to the per­ centage of particles (by weight) less than a specified diameter. For exmaple, if the D90 of a gravel is 6.0 mm, this means that 90 percent of the gravel is smaller in diameter than 6.0 mm and mm (screen size) Bunker sand testing finds critical answers to life of traps At one time, any white sand was thought to suffice for of the sand particles. An ideal bunker sand should contain bunker use because "sand is sand" and the bunkers needed less than three percent total silt plus clay. Sands exceeding only to look nice. But not all sands are created equal. this amount of clay are subject to forming surface crusts and Sands containing too much silt and clay form crusts or set are more likely to set-up. up into a massive structure. Either of these conditions lowers Crusting is the formation of a thin hardened surface layer. playability and requires additional maintenance. Crusts on bunker sand usually form as a result of rain or irri­ When excessively large particles are blasted onto the gation water, which causes the silt and clay particles at the green they interfere with putting and dull mower blades. surface basically to cement the sand particles together. The shape of the individual particles also makes a big differ­ Set-up is a similar phenomenon. However, in this case, ence in sand behavior. Round sands are not stable on slopes the cementation occurs throughout the sand and not just at and are more easily displaced by balls. The partial burial of the surface. This results in a sand that is lumpy when dis­ balls in round sands has earned the name "fried egg lies." turbed after rainfall or irrigation. So, it is clear the selection of a bunker sand - commonly Both crusting and set-up require more frequent raking to taken for granted - should not be left to chance. maintain adequate playing conditions. The particle size dis­ The first procedures for evaluating sands for use in bun­ tribution of the sand particles should be such that the major­ kers were developed by K.W. Brown and J.C. Thomas (my­ ity of the particles are from 0.25 to 1.0 millimeter in diame­ self) and published in 1986. ter, with less than three percent of the particles greater than By correlating the results of a battery of tests run on bun­ 2.0 mm in diameter and less than 25 percent of the particles ker sands with the results of a survey of the golf course su­ less than 0.25 mm in diameter. perintendents who submitted the bunker sand samples, we Angular-shaped sand particles are preferred over round established a set of criteria common to bunker sands that su­ particles, because the angular particles require a greater perintendents judged to be of high quality. force to displace them when hit by a ball. This leads to gen­ While it may not be possible to find a local sand that erally higher resistance to developing fried egg lies and less meets all criteria, by testing those available you can choose blasting of the bunker sand onto the green, where it may in­ the sand that has the greatest potential to provide acceptable terfere with putting and mowing. In addition, angular sand playing conditions and best use construction funds. tends to stay in place better on slopes. Criteria that need to be evaluated include particle size Whatever sand is selected, it should be underdrained and and shape, crusting, the propensity to set-up into a massive must have an infiltration rate as great or greater than that of structure, infiltration rate, color, and the tendency to form the root-zone mix on the adjacent putting green. An insuffi­ fried egg lies. cient infiltration rate may result in bunkers that pond water PARTICLES and remain excessively wet. Particle-size analysis gives a measure of the amount of silt and clay present in the sand as well as a measure of the size continued on next page 13 Bunker sand testing... continued from previous page COLOR Sand color is determined by comparison to the Munsell color chart. In general, most courses and players prefer a white or light-colored sand. However, when the choice is PUMPING SYSTEMS between a white sand with poor playing characteristics and a darker sand with good playing characteristics, the darker Joining Together To sand may perform better in the long run. BAD LIES Better Serve Our Customers Probably the most frequent criticism of bunker sands is the tendency to form fried egg lies. Such lies make it diffi­ We Now Offer cult for the player to recover and require that the player dig ■ Over 70 years of combined water industry experience the club into the sand and blast the ball and adjacent sand ■ The largest selection of pump station models and options out of the bunker and onto the green. The fried egg lie de­ ■ Vertical Turbine - Centrifugal - Submersible velopment test evaluates this by measuring the force re­ ■ Constant speed hydraulic or electronic butterfly quired to press a golf ball to a specified depth in a known volume of sand. Sands that score high on the fried egg lie valve pressure regulation development test are resistant to forming fried egg lies. • ■ Pump manager software Whether renovating existing bunkers or adding new bun­ ■ Smart pump controls kers, testing of the possible bunker sands assures getting the ■ Variable speed VFD stations best playing conditions per dollar invested in materials. Giv­ ■ Combined national service organization en an adequate amount of effort and proper testing, bunker ■ Existing station retro-fit upgrades sands can be found which require a minimum of mainte­ ■ Deep well consulting services nance and provide ideal playing conditions for those who are unfortunate enough to have their ball land in them. Sev­ To find out more about how we can help solve eral soil testing labs around the country test bunker sand. your water pumping requirements. Call now! James C. Thomas is a professional agronomist and turf services di­ Watertronics Pumping Systems Commercial Pump Services, Inc. rector at K.W. Brown & Associates in College Station, Texas. Hartland, Wisconsin Swanton, Ohio Credit: Golf Course News, February, 1992 800-356-3386 800-426-0370 We Can Their Approach To Boosting Potash. Our Approach To Boosting Potash. Make Grass Grow Every Way But Up. Improved disease tolerance. Enhanced drought resistance. And a complete, balanced feeding. In a homoge­ Just one treatment of new Primo™ for turf neous mixture to ensure uniform nutrient distribution. growth management makes grass grow thicker, Country Club 8-4-24 simply outdistances the competition. healthier, and shorter. Ask us about this exciting new treatment for your course. It can reduce your mow­ ing. No kidding. Country Club 8-4-24 TURFGRASS, INC. Distributed By Product Sales Manager (313) 437-1427 (Office) Tri-Turf Randy Rogers 1 (800) 521-8873 (Michigan Only Traverse City, MI Michigan (616)943-8343 (313)673-7146 14 7 0 Tips for Laundering Pesticide Soiled Clothing Ann C. Slocum, Lois C. Shem and Larry G. Olsen, Michigan State University Proper handling and washing of pesticide contaminated clothing is important to protect you and your family's More Tips Remember that pesticides can be absorbed through the health. The following guidelines can help you properly skin... SO clean pesticide contaminated clothing and protect other clothing from pesticides, too. • Wear rubber gloves to handle pesticide soiled clothing. • Make a disposable hamper for pesticide soiled clothing. 1. Store and wash pesticide soiled clothing separately Line a cardboard box with a garbage bag to use ONLY for from other family laundry. While laundering, the pesticide pesticide soiled clothing. removed from soiled clothing is deposited on other clothes in the wash. • Dispose of the gloves and the disposable hamper at the end of the pesticide season in the same way as you do the 2. Prerinse clothing before washing. Prerinsing helps re­ pesticide containers. move a large amount of pesticide, especially if it is a wetta- • Following the laundry recommendations will help re­ ble powder. Prerinsing can be done by hosing off clothing duce exposure to pesticides. outdoors, rinsing in a container or in the washing machine. • Minimize exposure to pesticides. Encourage everyone 3. Wash pesticide soiled clothing in hot water. Water 140 who handles pesticides to practice good safety and personal degrees or higher removes more pesticide than other wash hygiene habits. Be sure to wash hands before eating, smok­ temperatures. ing, or going to the bathroom. Research related to pesticides and clothing is currently being con­ 4. Use a full tub of water and regular wash cycle. Water ducted in several states. Recommendations presented in this article have been drawn from these investigations. should circulate freely to remove as much of the pesticide as If you have further questions, contact: possible. Dr. Ann C. Slocum Department of Human Environment and Design 5. Use a heavy duty liquid detergent. Heavy duty liquid College of Human Ecology detergents are better at removing problem pesticides. They Michigan State University are especially helpful in removing oil-based pesticides. Use East Lansing, Ml 48824 the amount of detergent recommended on the bottle. Nei­ ther bleach nor ammonia seem to affect pesticide removal (NEVER mix these two products together). '93 Mechanic's Meetings 6. Wash the clothing 2-3 times. Repeated washing is nec­ The Northern Michigan Turf Managers Association will be holding three special meetings for mechanics essary if the pesticide used is highly toxic or if large areas of (superintendents are welcome too). the garment are soaked. Below is a list of proposed dates, locations and topics. 7. Line dry whenever possible. Exposure to sunlight may Please mark these on your calendar. help break down pesticides. 8. Clean the laundry equipment. Run an empty load using 1993 Mechanic's Meetings hot water and detergent. Wipe the inside of the dryer with a damp cloth. May 12th at McGuire's in Cadillac: 9. Launder clothing after each day's wear. When clothing Bearing Maintenance - Timken Bower is repeatedly soiled before it is laundered, more pesticide re­ mains in the clothing after washing, and there are higher July: Date and topic to be announced concentrations of chemicals in the rinse water. September 14th at Garland: 10. Discard clothing that is heavily contaminated with a Washwater Recycling. highly toxic pesticide. However, clothing soiled by low tox­ icity pesticides can be laundered safely and effectively even if large areas are heavily soiled. In general, as the concentra­ Watch Turf Times updates for more details. tion of the active ingredient in the pesticide increases, the If you are interested in hosting a meeting this year or removal of pesticide residue by laundering decreases. next, please call Dan Stratton at (616) 352-4241. y 15 r Stop Snow Mold With aChipco 26019/DaconiF Combination. Call to receive your free video, "Controlling Snow Molds In the 199O's." Bob Dugan RHONE POULENC AG COMPANY P.O. Box 74398, Romulus, Michigan 48174-0398 CHIPCO is a registered trademark of Rhone-Poulenc. (313) 782-0323 FAX (31 3) 782-6344 Daconil is a registered trademark of ISK Biotech. 16 Simple Ground Squirrel Control Precision In past years, the Cadillac C.C. had a severe ground squir­ rel problem. The little buggers were everywhere, causing Laser Measurement damage to all aspects of the course. Multiple commercial controls we tried, including traps and poison. They all had Increases Play only superficial effects. Then James Gautz, our Assistant Superintendent, came up Laser your course properly with the with an idea that over time has reduced our rodent popula­ complete laser measurement fairway tion to easily manageable levels. Jim built a wire mesh tube about 3" by 9“ long and capped at one end. When employ­ marking system from ees had extra time they would take the tube and a jug of wa­ ter out onto the course. When they spied a ground squirrel they would chase it down its hole. Next, they would place FAST PLA Y TECHNOLOGY the tube over the hole and pour water through the tube into the hole. The squirrel would run up into the tube where it Fairway Management at its’ finest could be easily captured and disposed of. Often several squirrels would come out of a single hole. In the beginning large numbers (up to 75) of pests were taken in a single af­ • Incremental 25 yard markers ternoon. Over a period of several years the rodent popula­ tions were greatly reduced. Now, three or four afternoons a summer on "gopher patrol" manages their populations. • Color-coded posts every 50 yards Jeffrey T. Dorrell, Superintendent, Cadillac C.C. • Par 3 tee boxes •100-150- 200 yard markers • Sprinkler heads • Cart paths labeled • No maintenance Interference • Professionally Installed • Endorsed by Michigan PGA Professional Rodger Jabara Lush, beautiful greens and tee boxes are well-known to superintendents who use Ringer Greens Products. With five finely- Stop complaints about slow play granulated formulations available, you can match our fertilizer to your needs throughout the seasons. Each formulation releases the precise Call or write today for more info: amount of nitrogen needed to eliminate burning and green-up greens evenly The remaining nitrogen is reserved for slower release to encourage consistent growth. Try Ringer Greens FAST PLA Y TECHNOLOGY Products. Your greens will be in good company 32102 Howard ph: (313) 5883-4851 Contact your local distributor or Ringer’s Golf & Commercial Turf Division at Madison Heights, Ml 48071 fax:(313)583-3179 9959 Valley View Road, Minneapolis, MN 55344, (612) 941-4180. Ringer offers a complete line of fertilizers for greens, fairways and general turf applications. 17 Controlling Borers on White Birch Trees Roscoe Randall, Extension Entomologist, Univ. of Illinois Borers have destroyed many beautiful white birch Another technique which has been tried and evaluated trees. The bronze birch borer is a commen insect pest since 1977 is the use of Cygon 2E applied as a band or across the midwest. Early symtoms of borer activity collar on the trunks of white birch in late May or early include yellowing of trees at the top of the tree, then die June, the results for the past seven years have favorable. back at the top and eventually the entire tree may die. The method is to simply apply Cygon 2E as a concentrate Eggs are layed in bark crevices by a slender, 3/8" long, out of the original container in a 5 or 6 inch band bronze beetle in May of each year. Eggs hatch and the around the trunk below the lower limbs.. Apply it with a legless, white, flattened grub tunnels beneath the thin paint brush or, if there are many trees to treat, with a bark. The tunneling about under the bark loosens it and small, low pressure sprayer. As with spraying a dilute also girdles the limb or trunk being fed upon. spray, apply on a dry day when the concentrate will dry Control alternatives include planting birch species not rapidly. It will be translocated into the tree and will kill commonly attacked by the bronze birch borer. These hatching borers. include river birch, a bronze bark birch, or a white bark Cygon will leave a slight yellow stain on the trunk but species called Whitespire, which appears to be resistant will disappear before fall. Do not come in contact with to borers. Fertilizing and watering to prevent drought the Cygon concentrate while applying it. Do not apply a stress appear to reduce borer activity, but birches grown band wider than six inches. Banding is not an improved in the open are under stress in mid-summer. method over spraying the birch tree but is easier and can Insecticide application is another alternative. Since be used where spraying would be difficult. Neither 1970, entomologists at the University of Illinois have sraying nor banding will save a severely borer-damaged suggested the use of Cygon 2E as a spray applied in late birch tree. Also, do not band non-birch trees suspected of May or early June and repeated three weeks later. This being infested with borers as Cygon may injure or kill year we also suggest Dursban as an alternative other trees. insecticide spray. Credit: Hole Notes When It Comes to Turf Management... Nobody Knows C.J. COLEIN & Like Your ASSOCIATES, INC. Wilbur-Ellis Pro IRRIGATION DESIGN CONSULTANTS Your one-stop shop for all turf management needs. Ask about our 817 MAIN STREET complete line of chemicals, fertilizers and seed. ROCHESTER, MICHIGAN 48307 (313) 656-6805 Wilbur-Ellis. . .dedicated to quality, customer service and environmental stewardship. ____________ Tiease call or umtefor a fret brochure Brian Anderson Itu It CIO* «IN« 1 (800) 873-5599 18 Our Family is Growing No one can accuse John Deere 26-inch cutting units. Deere of standing still. Since The Gators are stable, quiet, January of 1992, we’ve carry large payloads, and added six totally new featur wet-disk brakes. machines to our Golf & Turf Talk with your John Deere Equipment family. All The 1800 Utility Vehicle brings benefits of hy­ Golf & Turf Equipment drostatic drive to spraying & spreading jobs. designed and manufactured distributor today for more by John Deere. information on our growing First to arrive were the lineup of machines. 1800 utility vehicle and 3365 Professional Turf Mower. The 1800 brought the NOTHING precision of hydrostatic drive to your work, while the 3365 New 6x4 and 4x2 Gator Utility Vehicles are stable, quiet, and carry large payloads. RUNS LIKE was the first machine to carry A DEER John Deere designed and manufactured cutting units. New machines for 1993 The 3365 Professional Turf Mower features include the 2653 Professional John Deere designed and manufactured cutting units. Utility Mower (pictured above) and 6x4 and 4x2 KLOOSTER EQUIPMENT, INC. Gator Utility Vehicles. WORK ‘N PLAY SHOP The 2653 features the 9821 U.S. 31 unique combination of ELLSWORTH, Ml 49729 hydraulic reel drive and John (616) 599-2822 19 i 993 Calendar of Events Dates Subject to Change ( *- NMTMA Dates to note) DATE EVENT LOCATION APRIL 19 M.B.C.G.C.S.A./Canadian G.C.S.A. Meeting Detroit G.C. 19 W.M.G.C.S.A. Meeting Grand Haven G.C. MAY 17 *N.M.T.M.A. Meeting Elmbrook G.C. 18 W.M.G.C.S.A./N.M.T.M.A. Meeting PohICat G.C. 21 M.B.C.G.C.S.A. SPECIAL OLYMPICS FUND RAISER Bald Mountain G.C. JUNE 3-6 LPGA OLDSMOBILE CLASSIC Walnut Hills C.C. 7-8 State Pro-am Boyne Highlands 14 M.B.C.G.C.S.A. Meeting Bloomfield Hills 17-20 U.S. Open Baltusrol G.C. 19 WORLD CUP SOCCER GAME Pontiac Silverdome 21 ♦N.M.T.M.A MTF FUND RAISER Elk Ridge G.C. 21- 27 FORD SENIOR PLAYERS TOURNAMENT TPC of Michigan 25-29 TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS Boyne Mountain 28-1 MICHIGAN OPEN Grand Traverse JULY 5-11 U.S. SENIOR OPEN Cherry Hills C.C. 6 *N.M.T.M.A. Meeting McGuire's 8 M.B.C.G.C.S.A. Meeting Dunham Hills G.C. 19-25 SENIOR PGA FIRST OF AMERICA CLASSIC The Highlands 22- 25 U.S. WOMEN'S OPEN Crooked Stick G.C. AUGUST 5-8 BUICK OPEN Warwick Hills C.C. 12-15 PGA CHAMPIONSHIP Inverness Club 17 WISCONSIN TURFGRASS FIELD DAY R&E Facility, Madison, Wl 19 M.T.F. TURFGRASS FIELD DAY Hancock Center, MSU 26 *N.M.T.M.A. Meeting Gaylord C.C. 22-25 MICHIGAN PGA CHAMPIONSHIP BEARD COLLECTION Garland 28-29 MICHIGAN PGA SHOW-DOWN Garland 28-1 UPS GREAT LAKES OPEN Boyne Highlands SEPTEMBER 13 W.M.G.C.S.A./MTF FUNDRAISER Egypt Valley C.C. 16 MICHIGAN SUPERINTENDENT'S CHAMPIONSHIP The Fortress 20 ♦N.M.T.M.A. FUNDRAISER Little Traverse Bay 28 W.M.G.C.S.A. ANNUAL MEETING Thornapple Creek OCTOBER 4 ♦N.M.T.M.A. ANNUAL MEETING / Tuck Tate Classic Walloon Lake C.C. 4 M.B.C.G.C.S.A./MTF FUNDRAISER Franklin Hills C.C. Katke-Cousins C.C. Grosse Isle C.C. Oakland Hills C.C. 14 G.C.S.A.A. seminar "Micro-Biology of Turfgrass Soils" Holiday Inn - East Lansing NOVEMBER 6 W.M.G.C.S.A. FALL DINNER PARTY C.C. of Jackson 16-18 G.C.S.A.A. Executive Training Seminar - Developing and Maintaining Effective Employee/Management Holiday Inn - East Lansing DECEMBER 4 ♦N.M.T.M.A. /M.M.T.M.A. CHRISTMAS PARTY Garland JANUARY 1994 3-5 WISCONSIN TURFGRASS & GREEN INDUSTRY EXPO Holiday Inn W., Madison, W, 18-20 MTF 64th ANNUAL TURFGRASS CONFERENCE Holiday Inn South FEBRUARY 1994 1-2 G.C.S.A.A. GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP Austin Texas 3-7 G.C.S.A.A. ANNUAL CONFERENCE & SHOW Dallas Texas 23-24 G.C.S.A.A. SEMINAR Treetops 20