g y 975 «Al P 3 O ur 63rd r -------------------------------------------- JA N U A R Y /F E B R U A R Y 1988 A PA TC H G REEN MICHIGAN STATE UftivtKSLgf 1 5 1988 LIBRARIES f l BORDER I w w r'* Va s s o c ia tio n CHIES OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN & BORDER CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION Golfs Premier Irrigation Control Syste Repeatedly the choice of the world’s leading architects and super­ intendents, MAXI® III from Rain Bird is recognized as golf course irrigation’s most exciting and versatile computerized control system. Sophisticated. Reliable. Powerful. MAXI® III offers state-of-the-art irrigation tech­ nology. An IBM computer, too. Not to mention the ability to handle a wide range of important functions. Lighting—securi­ ty—and a host of other necessary operations. Legends in the making—the great golf courses of tomorrow are being built today. And MAXI® III is there! Controllers. Rotors. 50 years of golf course irrigation experience. Rain Bird — the choice from coast to coast Ra/jv^ B /rd IC entury Rain A id j 31691 Dequindre, Madison Hts., Ml 48071 .................313-588-2992 22159 Telegraph, Southfield, Ml 48034....................... 313-358-2994 Michigan TOLL FREE 800/544-9219 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Don’t miss the MBCGCSA and GAM Spring Seminar on March 19. Looking forward to great 1988. Charles Gaige President, MBCGCSA With the 1988 Golfing season just a few months away and the hot and humid season of 1987 in the past, all members of the Board of Directors are looking towards a great season. I would like to thank Mike Edgerton for his 12 years service as Director and Past President of our associa­ tion. Mike’s contribution to the Board will be missed by all. I would also like to welcome Gary Thommes and Ed Heineman to the Board. Gary and Ed have been elected to three-year terms. On behalf of the Association, the Board of Directors again have donated $1000 to the GCSAA Research and Scholarship Fund. A donation of $500 was made to the O.J. Noer Foundation for Turfgrass Research. This past year, through the hard work of Jon Maddern and Ed Heineman we donated $4000 to Special Olympics and $10,250 to MTF from Golf Day receipts. Fine job gentlemen. In 1987 there were many great topics for education­ al meetings thanks to Roger Gill. Roger will be looking for any suggestions or comments on up­ coming meetings. If any member would like to host a educational meeting please contact Roger. "A PATCH OF GREEN” Published B¡-Monthly by the MICHIGAN AND BORDER CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION President CHARLES GAIGE Vice-President TOM MASON Secretary /Treasurer JON MADDERN Directors KEN DeBUSSCHER ROGER GILL JIM TIMMERMAN ED HEINEMAN JAY DelCAMP GARY THOMMES President Emeritus KEVIN DUSHANE Editor TED WOEHRLE Printed at BLAKEMAN PRINTING CO., Fraser, Michigan (313) 293-3540 Tire Wholesalers •) ) Company, Inc. Phone: (3 1 3 ) 3 5 4 - 5 6 4 4 19240 West Eight Mile Southfield, Ml 48075 (1/2 Mile West of Southfield Road) TRUCK - CAR, MOTORCYCLE, FARM, TRAILER, INDUSTRIAL TIRES &TUBES A . Carlisle Pirelli LAWN & GARDEN EQUIPMENT TIRES If you have changed your address, please let us know so we can keep our addressing plates up to date. Present Address: N A M E A D D R E S S C I T Y Fill In New Address: S T A T E Z I P N A M E A D D R E S S S T A T E C I T Y Mail this form to: A PATCH OF GREEN 31823 Utica Road Fraser, Michigan 48026 Z I P TORO WORKMASTER HEAVY DUTY INDUSTRIAL-QUALITY HYDROSTATIC DRIVE gives infinite speed control, instant forward/reverse, high torque to rear wheels for drawbar pull that surpasses competition. It’s a closed, self-lubricating drive system as in our Sand Pro and Groundsmaster 72. No gears to change, no clutch to slip. UP-FRONT SEATING FOR TWO, with passenger safety grip handle, means safe, comfortable seating for operator and passenger. EASY ACCESS TO ALL COMPONENTS saves maintenance time. You don’t have to empty the box to get at the battery. All frequently serviced parts are easy to get at. STANDARD BOX SIZE carries existing engine-driven top dressers, sprayers, mowers and other maintenance equipment. AUTOMOTIVE CONTROLS AND MORE LEG ROOM FOR OPERATOR helps reduce learning time, give greater security and comfort than competitive machines. LOWER CENTER OF GRAVITY - long wheel base; low box bed-height gives greater safety and stability, reduces lifting. SPRING SUSPENSION, SHOCK ABSO RBERS ON ALL W H EELS, provides comfort­ able ride. Easily carries 1,000 lb. payload. OVERSIZE 23 X 8.50 X 12 REAR TIR ES give the WORKMASTER a soft footprint, excellent traction, for greater hill climbing ability and sidehill stability. WILKIE Turf Equipment Division, Inc, 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 CHRISTMAS PARTY - A Huge Success Elizabeth McRae pulling the next lucky name out of the box. Holding box is Andra Gaige, Co-Chair- person of Christmas Party with husband Charles Gaige looking on. Jim Timmerman, (left) - presenting “ Retirement” Plaque to George Carson. Over 120 came to Barton Hills Country Club on Saturday, December 5, 1987. Greeting guests at the door were host Superinten­ dent Bruce Wolfrom and his wife Donna and Charlie Gaige and his wife Andra. Delicious hors d’oeuvres’ were served with cocktails before dinner. After dinner, dancing and presenta­ tions highlighted the evening. Past President Kevin Dushane was presented with his outgoing plaque and in turn presented the newly elected President, Charlie Gaige the gavel for 1988. President Gaige then presented retiring Board mem­ ber and Past President Mike Edgerton his gift for serving so many energetic years on the Board. Next, President Gaige invited Director Jim Timmer­ man forward to make several presentations. Jim Passing of the gavel at the Christmas Party. recognized four retiring members. Plaques were presented to George Carson, long-time member and employee of the W .F. Miller Co., and to Danny Uzelac, long-time member and owner of Dominion Golf Club in Canada. Those not present to accept their plaques were Burt Bradshaw and James Smith. Burt has been a member for more years than he wishes to admit and was actively involved with Lawn Equipment Corporation for over forty years. Jim has been a member for many years and spent much of his time with the Huron- Clinton MetroParks. This was the first time in recent memory that our Annual Dance was held on a Saturday and it was a pleasant change. Let’s do it again. MORE PHOTOGRAPHS ON PAGE 22 ANNUAL GREEN COMMITTEE CONFERENCE SATURDAY, MARCH 1 9 ,1 9 8 8 The Annual Joint Meeting with Michigan and Border Cities GCSA and the Golf Association of Michigan will once again be held at the Detroit Golf Club. The date again - March 19, 1988. USGA GREEN SECTION CONFERENCE THURSDAY, MARCH 10, 1988 LOCATION: Blythefield Country Club, Route 1, Belmont, Michigan (north of Grand Rapids) SPONSOR: United States Golf Association USGA Green Section, Great Lakes Region James M. Latham, Jr., Director 8727 North Deerwood Drive Brown Deer, Wisconsin 53209 (414) 354-2203 USGA Regional Affairs, Mid-Continent Region James A. Farrell, Manager P.O. Box 616 Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014 (815) 459-5590 COSPONSORS: Golf Association of Michigan and the Western Michigan Golf Course Superintendents Association The United States Golf Association conducts a series of one-day regional conferences each year in various cities in March and April. These programs are designed to provide valuable information regarding turfgrass management for golf courses and other golf and club management related subjects to club directors, green chairmen, course owners and opera­ tors, golf course superintendents, golf professionals and club managers. Certification points will be awarded to members of professional associations by their respective associa­ tion. There is a $30.00 per person advance registration fee which includes a luncheon. Registration at the door will be $40.00 per person. Conference registration forms will be distributed on or about February 1, 1988. For more information contact USGA Regional Affairs, James A. Farrell, Manager, P.O. Box 616, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014. (815) 459-5590. USGA Green Section Conference, Program - 8:00 REGISTRATION - Coffee and Rolls 9:00 WELCOME - Roger G. Barton, President, Western Michigan GCSA, Belmont, Michigan 9.15 THE ALPHABET SOUP OF GOLF - Jeffrey L. Rivard, Exectutive Director, Golf Association of Michigan, Farmington Hills, Michigan TREE TRANSPLANTING LARGE TREES UP TO 11” DIAMETER ARMSTRONG LAWN AND TREE, INC. “YOUR EVERGREENS SHOULD BE MOVED NOW.” 44275 Whithorn Sterling Heights, Michigan 48078 731-5550 264-8803 9:45 SPECIES ADAPTATION TO STRESS CONDI­ TIONS - HOW LOW THE MOWING HEIGHT? HOW HIGH THE TEMPERATURE? - Mark Grund- man, Turf Specialist, Northrup King Company, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin 10:30 BREAK 10:45 EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AND TEACHING THRU IMPROVED VISUAL AIDS - James A. Farrell, Manager, Mid-Continent Region, USGA Regional Affairs, Crystal Lake, Illinois 11:15 TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEM SOIL CONDITIONS - James A. Latham, Jr., Director, Great Lakes Region, USGA Green Section, Brown Deer, Wisconsin 12:00 LUNCHEON 1.30 A NEW VIEW OF HISTORY AT THE USGA MUSEUM AND LIBRARY - Janet Seagle, Librarian, Museum Curator, USGA Golf House, Far Hills, New Jersey 2:00 SELECTED LEGAL ISSUES OF GOLF CLUB AND GOLF COURSE MANAGEMENT - Brent D. Rector, Attorney at Law, Member, Blythefield Coun­ try Club, Belmont, Michigan 2:30 MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES FOR STRESS TOLERANCE - PROGRAMMING HIGH QUALITY AT LOWEST RISKS - Dr. Bruce Branham, Assistant Professor, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 3:15 U.S. OPEN FILM - “An Olympic Duel” 3:45 ADJOURN SCENES FROM ANNUAL SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT WITH CENTURY RAIN AID OTTERBINE DECORATIVE FOUNTAINS OTTERBINE Aerators can helpyou keep unsightly algae growth and objectionable odors under control naturally. The fact that OTTERBINES also create beauty - is just one of the many benefits of using our Spray Sculpture Floating Fountains. We create beauty while solving problems. LIGHTING AVAILABLE FOR DRAMATIC NIGHTIM E BEAUTIFICATION CALL TOLL FREE 1 - 800 - 544 - 9219 ¡C entury A id! 31691 Dequindre Madison Hts„ Ml 48071 313/588-2992 22159 Telegraph Southfield, Ml 48034 313/358-2994 3400 Jefferson S.E. Grand Rapids, Ml 49508 616/452-3373 Nothing Runs Like a Deere JOHN DEERE COMPACT DIESELS 52 INCH - 2 YEAR WARRANTY 17 TO 67 HORSEPOWER 2 OR 4 WHEEL DRIVE John Deere compact diesels come in eight models, so you can match horsepower to your needs. All are packed with performance fea­ tures that make them small giants on any big JOHN DEERE FRONT MOWERS The most versatile equipment a groundskeeper can own □ Mowers 50 to 76 inches □ Snow Blowers □ Front Blades 8- Brooms □ Vacuum Attachments & Cabs Available □ Gas or Diesel Engines Panther JM Sales JOHN DEENE 2274 TELEGRAPH, BLOOMFIELD HILLS Phone 335-5149 MONDAY-FRIDAY 8-7 SATURDAY 8-12 SUMMER HOURS - MAY 1 job. More than 50 capacity-matched attachments are available to keep the tractor you buy busy the year round. See us for a test drive soon. New John Deere AMT 600. It’s almost a truck. There’s nothing else like it! Our new PPM Materials Transport gives P ^ you true hauling ability. Not just travel. Takes loads ^ up to 600 pounds on flat land, up to 400 in hills. Dumps them, too. Goes places a truck can’t. Unique 5-wheel stability and 4-wheel differential lock traction. 341 cc engine and 62:1 torque ratio transmission for pulling power. With no gears to shift. Spring-loaded front fork cushioning. Low compaction. Anti-skid features. GIVE US A CALL AND WE'LL DROP ONE OFF FOR YOU TO USE FOR A DAY! FACTS AND FALLACIES OF FAST GREENS James T. Snow Director, Northeastern Region USGA Green Section In retrospect, the introduction of the Stimpmeter by the USGA in 1976 foreshadowed major changes for the way golf courses are maintained and for the way the game itself is played. By enabling golf course superintendents to easily determine the speed of greens, the Stimpmeter has greatly expanded our understanding of how maintenance practices can be manipulated to control green speed. As a result, golfers at every level throughout the country are enjoying faster, truer putting surfaces on a day to day basis than ever before. While their greens have been fast and smooth, however, the road that the superintendent has been forced to accommodate these changes has occasion­ ally been slow and bumpy. Interested but unin­ formed golfers and club officials have placed heavy pressure on the superintendent to produce consistent­ ly ultrafast greens at their courses, testing the limits of the health of the turf and sometimes pushing it over the edge. Along the way, rumors and misinformation have pervaded every locker room with respect to how fast the greens should be, how to get them that way, and what might happen if they’re pushed too hard. One of the indisputable facts today is that greens are generally faster than they were only a few years ago. A national survey done by the USGA Green Section in 1976 showed that the average green rolled approximately 6 feet 6 inches according to the Stimpmeter, whereas the average green today is probably closer to 8 feet. It’s also a fact that most golfers have short memories. Though greens are faster than ever, complaints about slow greens are more common than ever. So how fast is fast? In my view, the following offers a reasonable perspective on the subject. CONTINUED PAGE 19 TO R O The No. I name in golf course irrigation. It’s no coincidence that the country’s top golf courses use TORO irrigation systems. Because there are more TORO systems installed on golf courses than any other kind. For a number of very good reasons. W ILKIE Ih r f Equipment Division, Inc. TORO IRRIGATION DIVISION 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BUYNG A SPRAYER CONTACT W EIN G A R TZ FIRST JOIN THE PROFESSIONALS WHOUSESDI— * TANK SIZES 50 TO 1,000 GALLONS * PUMPS 9.5 GPM TO 51 GPM AND UP TO 850 PSI * ALL SPRAYERS CAN BE SKID MOUNTED ON YOUR TRUCK, OR SEVERAL TRAILER OPTIONS * WE CUSTOMIZE TO MEET YOUR NEEDS For Information or Demonstration Call TOM BRADSHAW WEINGARTZ Since 1945 “We Service Whet We Sell” 46061 VAN DYKE (Va MILE NORTH OF M-59) UTICA 731-7240 Michigan's Largest Lawn & Outdoor Power Equipment Dealer MON 8 JO to 8 TUES - FRI 8 30 5 30 SAI 8 30 5 CIBA-GEIGY CONTRIBUTES $50,000 TO GCSAA A $50,000 contribution to the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America’s (GCSAA) scholarship and research fund has been made by the Turf & Ornamental Department of the Ciba-Geigy Corp. The Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Endowment Fund, established by the GCSAA in August, makes scholar­ ships available to outstanding students enrolled in college turfgrass management programs nationwide. The fund works to encourage future leaders among professional golf course superintendents. “We’re pleased and excited about the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the Endowment Fund,” says Bill Liles, Director of Ciba-Geigy’s Turf & Ornamental Department. “Furthering turf re­ search through scholarships for college students is an excellent example of industry, education and the GCSAA working together.” John Schilling, GCSAA executive director, says the endowment fund enables the association to support research in such areas as drought and disease resistant grasses, environmentally sound turf management and effective water and soil resource conservation. Director Gerald Faubel, CGCS, chairman of the Scholarship and Research Committee, says the timing and generosity of Ciba-Geigy’s contribution to the endowment fund “indicates the kind of leadership needed to keep our profession strong.” Liles adds that Ciba-Geigy looks forward to making additional contributions to the turf industry in the years ahead. “We are committed to taking a leader­ ship position in the development of products that prevent disease, insects and weeds from harming our turf. This contribution is the first of many steps we intend to take.” Ciba-Geigy also has reorganized into a new Turf & Ornamental Department to better meet the needs of turf professionals. Key members of this group include Director Bill Liles, Sales Manager John McLeod, Product Manager Joe Prochaska and Dr. Doug Houseworth, senior technical support manager. Ciba-Geigy recently introduced two products to the turf market insecticide and Banner fungicide. The company also markets Subdue fungi­ cide and diazinon for turf use. - Triumph fungicide Chineo® Aliette8 for the control of Pythium in turf • true systemic • unique mode-of- • no watering-in required interval action • longer spray • cost effective BOB D U G A N - Sales R epresentative 36709 Romulus Road, Romulus, Ml 48174 ( 313) 941-1972 RHONE POULENC INC AGROCHEMICAL DIVISION 59th International Golf Course Conference & Show G C S A A George R. Brown Convention Center, Houston, Texas February 1-8, 1988 ♦ 30 Seminars ♦ Golf Championships ♦ Trade Show ♦ Annual Meeting For Conference, Seminar or Exhibitor Information: 1-800/GSA-SUPT or 913/841-2240 » T O T ^ Golf Course Superintendents Association of America 1617 St. Andrews Drive Lawrence, KS 66046-9990 WHAT’S AHEAD FOR 1988? If the gloomy, wet fall and early winter are any indication of what lies ahead then we are probably in for another trying year. As predicted last year in this article we mentioned that the super-saturated soil and the lack of adequate sun light have predisposed the turf to a weakened condition for next spring. This once again appears to be the case for the next year. We are especially vulnerable to ice sheet damage because of the wet soils. Let’s keep our fingers crossed. More and more winter covers are being used this year. Our purpose for using them at Oakland Hills is to help prevent dessication. We have been experi­ menting with various covers for 20 years and have found them very beneficial in years when moisture is limited. Computers are finally becoming more common in the realm of grounds maintenance. Several Clubs can now track labor hours for all maintenance procedures as well as vehicle maintenance. Inventory and budget programs are not as readily available because most clubs handle this at the clubhouse. Daily logs for special projects and weather conditions are now uim.F.seii 8 Son. Inc. SINCE 1923 RENTAL SALES - SERVICE ★ LOADERS ★ SWEEPERS ★ TRENCHERS ★ MOWERS ★ ROTARY CUTTERS ★ BACK HOE DIGGERS ★ BACK FILL BLADES ★ POST HOLE DIGGERS JOB TAILORED EQUIPMENT COMPLETE LIME OF MATERIAL HANDLING & FARM EQUIPMENT 282-5100 C A l± 16555 TELEGRAPH RD. - TAYLOR 1 Mile South of Eureka available and of course the irrigation industry has perfected software for the P.C.’s that many of us now have. This is an area that will have to be included at all clubs in the future as water management domin­ ates our concerns. Several new pieces of equipment will surface this year in the form of mowers, aerifiers, sprayers and light weight tractors. Hope that each and every one of you have a happy and properous new year! Ted Woehrle, Editor Profanity Makes Ignorance Audible "F or Land's Sake-'Use Peat" 0XE0J® PEAT CO. 1430 E. Drahner Rd. Oxford, Michigan 48051 CO M PA NY PROCESSED PEAT C u s t o m M i x e s FRED LATTA • 313/628-5991 POND DREDGING SPECIALIST Off Road Trucking Wide Track Bulldozing Shore Line & Land Development Grading & Trenching SWEETCO INC. 218 Audubon South Lyon, Mi. 48178 313- 437-1830 TRADE UP RANSOMES TRACTOR SALE HUGE SAVINGS on Current M odels U8B With 61 "Deck $6,499“ , egular Retail $7895.00 • Briggs & Stratton, twin cylinder, 18 horse­ power engine. • Simple twist of spring latches gives fast, easy underhood access. • New lug nuts on rear steering wheels makes tire removal fast and easy. • Instrument panel has choke, throttle, electric key starter, ammeter and hourmeter. • Safety seat interlock shuts off engine whenever operator leaves seat. Regular Retail $4999.00 T-1861 With 61" Deck $ 3999.00 W/TRADE ■Briggs & Stratton, twin cylinder 18 hp ■Optional Kohler ■5 Speed transaxle w/reverse ■Electric key start has ammeter, hourmeter and fuses on easily viewed panel ■About 0" inside wheel turning radius ■Disc brakes and electromagnetic PTO drive clutch For information or demonstration, call Rich Hetrick or Ed Stesny, Turf Manager at: (313) 541-4660 Ideal M ow er Sales 811 Woodward Heights Ferndale, Michigan 48220 Shemin Nurseries, Inc. Everything Under One Roof 0 C H EM IC A LS 0 NURSERY 0 TO OLS 0 FER TILIZE R S Ò G RASS SEED Ó IRRIGATION 6 POW ER E Q U IP M E N T 0 TERRA COTTA Prompt, Efficient Delivery Our Standard is Excellence Check Our Prices Shemin Nurseries, Inc. 6900 Pardee Rd. Taylor, Ml 48180 313-291-1200 1-800-544-5127 MICHIGAN TOLL FREE VERTICILLIUM WILT By James A. Fizzel Senior Extension Advisor, U. of I. Leaves on a large branch in your favorite maple tree wilt, turn brown & fall in mid-summer. A plant in the barberry hedge dies, followed by death of the plants on either side. Or, a tomato plant yellows and dies just as it starts to produce fruit. This kind of problem is a common occurance. The cause is Verticillium Wilt, a soil borne fungus disease. The soil becomes infected with the disease, when diseased plants or contaminated soil is brought in. Susceptible trees, shrubs and also garden plants growing in the soil are invaded through roots. As well as attacking the above plants, Verticillium Wilt also attacks Ash, Box Elder, Catalpa, Cherry, Dogwood, Elm, Honey Locust, Horse Chestnut, Kentucky Coffee, Lilac, Linden Locust, Magnolia, Oak, Osage Orange, Poplar, Privet, Bedbud, Rose, Russian Olive, Sumac, Tulip Tree, Viburnum and Yellow Wood. Many garden flowers and vegetables are also susceptible. Infected plants may not show symptoms until they are damaged or stressed in some ways. Floods last fall, and drought last winter damaged plant and hence, those with Verticillium are showing the characteristic symptoms. Susceptible tomato varieties usually succumb from the stress of fruit production. You can tell if your plant has Verticillium Wilt by cutting into affected stems. If the disease is present, vascular tissue or sapwood will streaked with green, purple and brown, depending on the variety of plant. Infected garden plants usually die from the disease, but often a woody plant wilts and recovers, not showing symptoms until stressed again. By keeping the plant healthy and vigorous an affected plant can often live out its normal life span. A spring application of nitrogen fertilizer to trees and shrubs will promote formation of thick sapwood and may wall off further infection. Remove dead limbs, hut postpone pruning any newly wilted branches to see if they will produce new leaves. Water during drought periods. If your plant dies, be sure to replace it with a resistant variety such as Apple, Beech, Birch, Ginko, Hawthorn or Oak (White or Burr). Most evergreen trees and shrubs are resistant. Plant only resistant varieties of garden plants. If you are fortunate enough to have avoided contaminating your soil with Verticillium Wilt, be very selective about any plants you bring in, especially from neighbors. This is one place where it may pay to look a gift horse in the mouth. BECOME INVOLVED! Let 1988 be the year that you pledge to become involved in your profession. Share your thoughts and wisdom with your fellow Superintendents. Attend meetings and functions of the Association. Write an article for The Patch of Green (you may win $100 for writing the best article by a Superintendent). Host a monthly meeting - locations are hard to find. If you aren’t Certified by now, take the time and make the effort. You are short-changing yourself and your Club if you aren’t Certified. Call Ted Woehrle at (313) 644-3352 and he will help you make the decision. Perhaps we can organize a group testing or help you arrange an on-site inspection of your Club. Support the Michigan Turfgrass Foundation and the work they are supporting at Michigan State Univer­ sity. Get invloved in our fund raisers - Special Olympics and Turf Day. DO YOU JUST BELONG? Are you an active member, The kind that would be missed, Or are you just content That your name is on the list? Do you attend the meetings And mingle with the crowd, Or do you stay at home And crab both long and loud? Do you ever go to visit A member who is sick, Or leave the work to just a few And talk about the clique? There is quite a program scheduled That means success, if done, And it can be accomplished With the help of every one. So attend the meetings regularly And help with hand and heart, Don’t be just a member, But take an active part. Think this over carefully, Are we right or are we wrong? Are you an active member, Or do you just belong? Anon - V ¿Serving You Better QUALITY FORE PAR CLEARY MALLINCKRODT LEWIS COUNTRY CLUB Upjohn Chicopee FOX VALLEY ChipCO DIAMOND SHAMROCK Yankee c y c lo n e PBI Gordon AQUATROLS Pana Sea TURFGRASS PRODUCTS SOUTH LYON, MICHIGAN Phone: Area 313 437-1427 GENE JOHANNINGSMEIER \Great Loises Minerals Co. Topdressing Sands Trap& CONTROLLED TO USGA SPECIFICATIONS GREAT LAKES' TOPDRESSING SAND IS AVAILABLE IN TRUCKLOAD QUANTITIES. ALSO AVAILABLE - TRAP AND SPECIALTY SANDS. 2855 COOLIDGE HWY. • TROY, MICHIGAN 48084 TELEPHONE: (313) 649-3700 WATERWAYS IRRIGATION R a in & B ir d I • NEW GOLF INSTALLATIONS • RENOVATIONS •AUTOMATIC CONVERSIONS PUMP INSTALLATIONS AND. I TROUBLE SHOOTING • EXPERIENCED Ra in & B ir d MAXI III INSTALLER OVER 17 YEARS EXPERIENCE CALL TODAY WATERWAYS IRRIGATION 9 7 3 - 2 1 2 3 9522 LUCERNE REDFORD, Ml 48239 THE 22nd ANNUAL WISCONSIN GOLF TURF SYMPOSIUM ON “IMPRESSIONS - A MEMORABLE GOLF COURSE (FIRST AND LAST IMPRESSIONS)” October 28-29, 1987 Milwaukee, Wisconsin “When people visit a golf course they have a pre-conceived notion of what they are going to experience when they play or attend an event. The first impressions people have as they enter a property and play a golf course are often lasting impressions.” “If the property does not meet expectations, the user is unhappy. So, in order to keep members happy, to make the members proud enough of their golf course to bring visitors, to attract the type of membership sought, you must make the first impressions the best impressions.” their This theme was presented and discussed for a day and one half by experts in the fields of Golf Course Architecture and Landscape Architecture plus pro­ fessional golfers and golf course superintendents. These symposiums are outstanding. If you have never attended one, you should plan on going next year. They discuss one subject and thoroughly dicuss all aspects of that subject for a day and one half. Some of the subjects from past years include: Poa Annua Sand Topdressing Fast Greens Winter Injury Soils Thatch Water Grooming Micronutrients HARD WORK is an accumulation of easy things you didn’t do when you should have. Introducing a new benefit from Chipco 26019... convenient Chipco® 26019 FLO RHONE POULENC INC AGROCHEMICAL DIVISION BOB DUGAN - Sales Representative 36709 Romulus Road, Romulus, Ml 48174 (313) 941-1972 FAST GREENS, CONT. Fast for regular play A reasonable range Ultra-fast for regular play An unreasonable range -8’ to 9’ -7’6” to 9’ -above 9’6” -above 9’ at all times Due to the vagaries of the weather and other circumstances, it is impossible to maintain a precise green speed throughout the year, but maintaining speeds between 7’6” and 9’ should be feasible. Speeds 9’ should be established only for special occasions. Trying to keep green speeds above 9’ at all times, as desired by some golfers, often results in serious problems and should be avoided. PAYING THE PIPER Achieving fast greens has been well studied and involves proper mower maintenance and adjustment along with the manipulation of cultural factors such as fertilization, irrigation, topdressing, verticutting, rolling, etc. To achieve ultra-fast greens, all of these programs must be pushed to the limit. In the process, extreme stress is placed on the turf and jeopardizes its very survival during periods of difficult weather. If a goal of maintaining fast or ultra-fast greens through­ out the season is ever to be achieved, then a real effort must be made to control or minimize other stress factors as much as possible. These include: • poor drainage • moisture stress due to a poor irrigation system or improper irrigation practices • soil compaction • diseases, insects and nematodes • unreasonable traffic weather, winter play, etc.) • tree effects (shade, root competition, poor air circulation) (e.g. play during bad Despite efforts to control these stress factors, however, following through with all of the practices necessary to produce consistantly fast or ultra-fast greens can thin and weaken the turf to such an extent that many undesirable consequences can occur. Among the problems observed: - establishment of moss and algae - encroachment of crabgrass, goosegrass and other weeds - proliferation of summer patch, take-all patch and other difficult to control stress related diseases CONTINUED PAGE 21 ANNUAL PICNIC HHHi Boy, is this fun! . n in% "m. 1 m m * » - I’m watching my figure! Practicing for the bubble gum blowing contest at Annual Picnic. Egg roll contest at Annual Picnic. The No. I name in golf course Irrigation, The right amount of water TORO :S& « ft In the right place WILKIE At the right time TW f Equipment Division, Inc, 1050 OPDYKE RD. • P.O. BOX 749 • PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48056 • (313) 373-8800 designed by and for LESCO Greensmower today’s turf professionals • 18 H.P. twin-cylinder Kohler Magnum engine for added power and long life. • Hydraulic power steering for easy maneuverability • Independent reel controls for multiple mowing patterns • Reversible hydraulics to allow backlapping of individual cutting units while on machine • Center post steering for added safety and ease in climbing on and off either side of machine Rocker foot pedal for raising and lowering cutting units Automatic starting and stopping of reels Otdet (800) 321-5325 NATIONWIDE (800) 362-7413 IN OHIO LESCO, Inc. • 20005 Lake Road, Rocky River, Ohio 44116 • (216) 333-9250 FAST GREENS, CONT. Trying to maintain consistently ultra-fast greens means always living on the edge of disaster, and once golfers become used to these fast greens, they expect them to be that way all of the time. The superinten­ dent is than locked into a maintenance program which at best will make him a nervous wreck, but which ultimately could spell disaster. In the end, the piper will be paid! RECOMMENDATIONS • Try to keep the speed of your greens in the reasonable range of 7’6” to 9\ Aim for the 8’ to 9’ range if you wish but recognize that green speeds will vary from day to day and season to season. • Avoid getting caught up in the race for ultra-fast greens, striving for speeds of 9’6” only on very special occasions, if at all. • Explain to your club officials about the potential consequences of trying to maintain consistently ultra­ fast greens. • Be on the lookout for the symptoms of weakness noted earlier, and be prepared to comprimise your green speed goals in an effort to strengthen the turf. In the long run, the game of golf will be best served by taking a reasonable approach to managing green speeds, avoiding the excesses which can only result in dead grass and unhappy golfers. MILORGANITE MAKES MILWAUKEE FAMOUS! FREE ESTIMATES FULLY INSURED SPECIALIZING IN GOLF COURSE WORK. TREE REMOVAL, TRIMMING, SHRUBS, POWER STUMP REMOVAL. 6220 GRASS LAKE ROAD, MILFORD, MICHIGAN 48042 Milwaukee is the land of cheer - German cooking, ale and beer; They eat and drink from morn ’til night, And then they make MILORGANITE! Their baseball team is quite their pride, It’s fame had traveled far and wide. The grandstand has a room in sight where they can make MILORGANITE! After the game they go to dinner, It doesn’t matter who’s the winner - And after sleeping through the night, They make some more MILORGANITE! I state without equivocation, This chore has keen cooperation; It’s manufacture is an art, where everybody does his part. Old men, young men, perfumed ladies, Boys and girls and even babies; Grunt and strain and do what’s right, To pile up more MILORGANITE! Author unknown Outgoing President, Kevin Dushane (left) - accept­ ing Past President Plaque from newly elected President, Charles Gaige. Mike Edgerton, (left) - thanking membership for his gift as a retiring Board Member of the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Asso­ ciation. Dan Uzelac accepting his “ Retirement” Plaque. ¿8 51OD0 (irartit JUtoer Sc(E ¿iistrUnitors -Kaont, ^icipgan 48096 (313-349-7779) (800-888-7779) Michigan’s Only Stocking Dealer For R & RPRODUCTS TORO RYAN NATIONAL QUALITY REPLACEMENT PARTS JACOBSEN ROSEMAN YAZOO HAHN-WESTPOINT RANSOMES FORD REEL SHARPENING COMPOUND CALL US TOLL FREE (MICHIGAN ONLY) 800-888-7779 FOR YOUR SUPPLY ITEMS FLAGS — POLES - RAKES - CUPS WE ARE RICO MFG. ONLY DISTRIBUTORS FOR MICHIGAN, OHIO, INDIANA AND ILLINOIS EXCELLENT QUALITY PERSONALIZED TUBE FLAGS SOLID FIBERGLASS POLES WITH SOLID IMPREGNATED COLOR FIBERGLASS RAKE HANDLE, FOAM FILLED TO FLOAT 14" or 22” RAKE HEAD PUTTING GREEN FLAGS AND POLES - CUPS CUSHMAN MOTT EXCEL vX:i:- j To get the green, go for the Gold. Gold Cup quality for great-looking turf. COIMRY^LUB • Homogenous Granulation • High Methylene Ureas (W.I.N.) • Great N-P-K Ratios • Agronomical ly Correct • Contact Your Local Lebanon Distributor Lebanon TO TA L T U R F C A R E 1- 800- 233-0628 WE ALSO HANDLE LEWIS AND PAR AIDE REPLACEMENT SEATS FOR GOLF CARTS...TRACTORS...ETC. BETTER TURF CARE FROM THE GROUND UP T he R yan G A "30 beats the com petition in versatility, speed and precision. Ryan continues to set the standard to which others com pare. The new Ryan GA 30 is designed to aerate golf greens, tees, fairways, sports turf and commercial grounds. With a flexible aerating pattern ranging from 1" X 2Vi to 5" X IVi , you can aerate from 5,625 square feet/hour up to 28,125 square feet/ hour. The GA 30 is not only faster on the green, but with a transport speed of up to 6 mph, it gets you off the golf course twice as fast. It’s a tractor and aerator in one compact, durable riding machine. Ask for a convincing demonstration today. RYAN BUI L T TO L AST la to n equipment &ertnce & êrnleô 151 N. PERRY PONTIAC, MICHIGAN 48058 (313) 858-7700 Introducing... JACOBSEN G-4X4 Four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering and a low center of gravity are key features of the Jacobsen G-4X4, a 24 hp diesel-powered machine designed to serve as a mobile power source for rotary and flail mowers, rotary broom and snowthrower, seed and fertilizer spreader and blower. It also has a synchronized eight forward and four reverse speed transmission, four-wheel hydraulic brakes and an all weather cab plus front and rear lights. W.F. MILLER COMPANY GARDEN AND LAWN EQUIPMENT 25125 TRANS-X IMOVI, MICHIGAN 48050 (313) 349-4100 "A Patch of Green” 31 8 23 U T IC A R O A D F R A S E R , M IC H IG A N 48026 MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY - SERIALS EAST LANSING, MICH. 4 8 8 2 3 C