THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE MICHIGAN AND BORDER CITIES GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENTS ASSOCIATION September/October 1995 GOLF COURSE I SUPT. ASSOCIATION É M IC H IG A N Tribute to George W. Prieskorn Foil Weed Control Guide To Lightning S a fe ty P e rso n al P ro te ctiv e Equipm ent Stan d ard s It's An Easy Step Up To An Exmark Mower/ Michigan’s Largest Lawn, Snow & Outdoor Power Equipment Dealer Utica 46061 Van Dyke 1/2 Mile North ofM-59 810- 731-7240 Farmington Hills 39050 Grand River East of Haggerty 810- 471-3050 Best Price - Best Service - Best Selection \GOLF COURSE] border) / ' cities s u p t- / association I Michigan & Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association O ffic e rs P re s id e n t Jay Delcamp v ic e P re s id e n t Carey Mitchelson Committee: Fund Raising Chairman, GAM Seminar S e c re ta ry /T re a s u re r Paul Dushane Committee: Finance, Welfare, Policy Book Special Olympics Co-Chair P a s t P re s id e n t Ken DeBusscher Committee: Publicity, Ethics D ire c to rs Ed Hock, Jr. Committee: Special Olympics Co-Chair, Education Co-Chair, Golf Day Co-Chair Paul Kolbe Committee: Editorial, ByLaws Mark McKinley Committee: Picnic, Historian, Membership Relations Dave Picot Committee: Education Co-Chair, Awards, Clothing John Shreve Committee: Christmas Party, Membership, Industrial/Environmental Relations Roy Szyndlar Committee: Golf Chair, Hospitality Room, Golf Day Co-Chair Tom Mason: GCSAA Liaison, Delegat< Kate Mason Executive Secretary MBCGCSA PO. BOX 173, Troy, Ml 48099 (810) 362-1108 Fax (810) 362-1736 Paul Kolbe, Tim Dorner Kolka & Robb, Inc. Vicki Robb, Publisher Kathleen Kolka, Creative Director Katie Elsila, Editor Tiffanie Howell, Associate Editor Fred Wessells, Copy Editor Susan E. Walker, Designer Sally Clark, Advertising Com m itee Chair C o n ta c t f o r MBCCCSA in fo rm a tio n C o -Exe cu tive Editors P ublishers A d v e rtis in g & e d ito r ia l o ffic e s a re a t: 30700 Telegraph Road Suite 1401 Bingham Farms, Ml 48025-4524 (810) 642-9580 • FAX (810) 642-5290 A Patch of Green • 1 • September/October 1995 The Official Publication of the Michigan and Border Cities Golf Course Superintendents Association Conten 3 ..................... Calendar of Events 3 .................... New Members 4 .................... On Par with the President 6 8 Industry News MBCCCSA Board Meeting Highlights & Committee Reports Fall Weed Control Ball Roll Comparison: Soft Spikes Versus Traditional Metal Spikes Personal Protective Equipment Standards A Risk Management Approach to Lightning Safety Around the Course Kate Speaking EDITORIAL COMMITTEE John Cooney Tim Dorner, CGCS Paul Kolbe Jane St John Steve Sump Cover photo courtesy of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America. n VflLLEY TCIRF lllllllllllllllllll TURF AND IRRIGATION EQUIPMENT I N C O R P O R A T E D Valley Hirf, Inc. 3185 Vroom Rd. South Boardmen, MI 49680 (616) 369-3482 (616) 369-3334 Fax Valley Ttirf, Inc. 3721 28th St. S.W. Grandville, MI 49418 (616) 532-2885 (616) 532-5553 Fax Valley Turf. Inc. 11711 E. Grand River Rd. Brighton, MI 48116 (810) 220-2040 (810) 220-2750 Serving Michigan with quality irrigation products! FF-II is your first line defense against winter diseases In university testing Scotts FF-II has consistently out­ performed all other PCNB products. In one convenient application, FF-II controls pink and gray snowmold, cool season brown patch, leaf spot, dollar spot, stripe smut and rust while providing a dormant feeding of 14-3-3 fertilizer for early spring green-up. A sk your ProTurf® Tech Rep for details. JOHN SKAIFE Senior Technical Representative The O.M. Scott & Sons Company Professional Business Group 9120 Sandison Drive White Lake, Ml 48386 Tel (810) 698-2358 or 1-800-543-0006 today. Red Run Golf Club Hosts Red Run Golf Club and superintendent Gary Thommes, CGCS, hosted the 1995 Michigan Amateur on June 20-24. Red Run has been a strong supporter of various championships through the years, having hosted the Motor City Open in 1950 and 1952 and the Western Open in 1958. Gary and his assistant Tom Leh had the course in excellent shape, considering the first major heat wave of 1995 and minimal rainfall since Memorial Day. Hand syringing the greens kept them smooth and firm which gave them a stimpmeter reading of 10.5 feet at a mower height of .095 inches. The membership at Red Run should be proud of Gary's work, and this Michigan Amateur will be added to the esteemed history of Red Run Golf Club. The original field included 610 players from which 150 players emerged after nine sectional qualifying sites around the state. The winner was Jackson native Steve Maddalena. A Patch of Green • 2 • September/October 1995 BULLINGER, CHRISTOPHER T. CLASS D u o f M Golf Course 1000 S. State S treet Ann Arbor, Ml 48109-2201 H-(313) 995-0473 0-(313) 998-6267 HOWES, JEFF (PAULINE) CLASS F Spartan D istribu tors 8249 P arkw ood Ct. R om eo, Ml 48095 H-(810) 336-0922 0-(810) 373-8800 HUGHES, DEAN (LISA) CLASS D S henandoah Golf Course 4815 S undew C o m m erce TWp, Ml 48382 H-(810) 362-3481 O-(810) 681-4568 FAX-(810) 682-3957 INMAN, TRENT J. CLASS S Franklin Hills C.C. 31675 Inkster Rd. Franklin, Ml 48025 O-(810) 626-1220 FAX-(810) 737-0630 KIZEL, KEITH M. CLASS S Franklin Hills C.C. 31675 Inkster Rd. Franklin, Ml 48025 0-(810) 626-1220 FAX-(810) 737-0630 REMUS, TERRANCE L. (CHERYL) CLASS S Franklin Hills C.C. 5611 H allendale Rd. Haslett, Ml 48840 H-(517) 339-0402 0-(810) 626-1220 FAX-(810) 737-0630 ROBBINS, DARRICK CLASS D Franklin Hills C.C. 31675 Inkster Rd. Franklin, Ml 48025 H-(810) 960-5554 O-(810) 626-1220 FAX (810) 737-0630 WEIGAND, ROBERT CLASS D R ichm ond Golf Course 33300 32 M ile Rd. Lenox, Ml 48050 H-(810) 286-5252 O-(810) 727-7099 FAX (810) 727-7965 CALIGUIRE, THOM AS J. CLASS D W o o d la n d s o f Van B u ren 11560 F o rd lin e #201 A llen Park, Ml 48101 H -(313) 381-1738 0-(3 1 3 ) 729-7811 Membership Meeting - Creystone The Big Event: Baypointe Golf Club Detroit Golf Club Meadowbrook Country Club Walnut Creek Country CLub Annual Meeting - Maple Lane Golf Club D e c e m b e r l l Year in Review - Birmingham Country Club A Patch of Green 3 September/October 1995 w it h t h e president Too often it takes a tragedy to make peo­ ple realize the impor­ tance of friendships. Unfortunately, on July 5th the golf commu­ nity, not just locally but nationwide, lost a dear friend in George Preiskorn. It's been said many times, "The good die young," and George certainly fits that phrase to a tee. George not only was a good man, but a great leader—a man who only was satisfied with excellence in his business. His greatest trait, possibly, was that he was a dedicated son. George and his brother Gerry purchased Bald Mountain Golf Course in 1986. We were good friends prior to that, but our friendship was enhanced due to the proximity of our work places. Many times over lunch we shared thoughts about work habits, golf swings and life in general. I certainly will feel the loss of my good friend, and I'm sure his many friends in our association will miss his wisdom and kind smile. The Preiskorn family wishes to thank everyone for the many dona­ tions given in George's name and their kind thoughts and prayers. I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone, including myself, that friendships should not be taken for granted. The warmth of friendship can drift away without frequent rekindling. Stephen Lauvine said, "If you knew you were going to die soon and had only one phone call you could make, who would you call, what would you say and why are you waiting?" On that note, I would like to recog­ nize some of the people who have influenced my life, both personally and professionally. Two gentlemen who helped me make it through my green years while at Gowanie Golf Club: Gene Johanningsmeier and Don Benham. Many times when bugs or fungus, or just people, were eating away at my course they would be there to rescue me from sure disaster. Today, they're still helping me and many other turf managers cope with the stress of growing turf. Thanks, guys. Good friends like Clem Wolfrom and Ward Swanson have shared their knowledge and experiences with me on golf course mainte­ nance issues, as well as preparing and encouraging me. For more than 20 years I have known Kurt Kraly and consider him one of my closest friends. He was steadfast through my best and worst, hard times and good, and has been a part of some of the funniest times I can remember. From short cuts through state parks and, one I'll never forget, a demonstration of his first high-powered bow. It was behind the maintenance barn at Gowanie Golf Club. Robin Hood aimed at the giant oak, but came up a little short, striking my brand new 1" irrigation hose, which had not yet had water run through it. I'm sure that was the only snake ever shot by a com­ pound bow. Kurt, you've been the best. Many thanks. New friends are equally important. Paul Dushane has been an inspiration when I have been down, looking for answers to questions concerning our association. He many times has calmly pointed me in the right direction. Paul has proven to be an asset to the mem­ bership and will continue for many years. Thank you, my friend. I don't consider myself an inspiration, but take my advice. Next time you're thinking of a good friend and remembering past times, stop and give him or her a call. No reason needed. Just say, "I was thinking of you and wanted to say hi and catch up." Jay Delcamp A Patch of Green • 4 • September/October 1995 George William Prieskorn 1935-1995 George Prieskorn was born July 4,1935, in Brighton, Michigan, the son of George A. and Lucile (Ash) Prieskorn. A graduate of Michigan State University, George served with the U.S. Army. Prior to becoming the co-owner and manager of Bald Mountain Golf Course in Lake Orion, he was the resident manager of Burroughs Farms, Brighton, was a former mainte­ nance manager for the Huron-Clinton Metroparks and a former Brighton High School teacher, football and golf coach. He was an active member of St. George Lutheran Church, teaching catechism for many years, as well as serving in other capacities. Greenkeepers George made many contributions to the MBCGCSA and served as president of the MBCGCSA from 1976-1977. George played as part of a three-member team repre­ senting the GCSAA in the Second British International and Superintendents Golf Tournament at the Walton Heath Golf Course in London, England, in October 1976. Much to the pride of the MBCGCSA, the GCSAA team fin­ ished first by scoring an 89 in the three- ball, better-ball, 36-hole tournament. George received a hero's welcome when he returned to Michigan. George died the early hours of Wednesday, July 5, 1995. Surviving are his mother, Lucile, his brother, Gerald, and his wife Kay, two nieces, Stephanie and Stacey, a nephew, Gerald, and a great-nephew, Justin. in CRENSHAW C reeping Bentgrass "This bentgrass provides the truest, smoothest putting surface available." • Excellent heat resistance • Dense, upright growth • Produces less grain • Bright, attractive green color Developed and released by Texas A&M University with support from the U SG A and Bentgrass Research, Inc. LOFTS Lofts Seed Inc. Bound Brook, NJ (301) 595-1970 (800) 472-7701 F R E E . . . ThepWefsLC®V(se GuideWonai to y A Specifically for Golf Courses What turfgrasses would work best on your golf course? The right choice now can make a big difference later. The Golf Course Professional's Guide to Turfgrass Selection will help you decide. The free Guide is a quick, easy reference arranged by geographical areas. It suggests turfgrass species, and lists the varieties and seeding rates best suited to your locale. A separate section on southern winter overseeding details new trends, listing the advantages and drawbacks of various species. This guide is a "must" for new course construction and for renovation projects. Get your free copy today! Lofts Seed Inc. (301) 595-1970 • (800) 472-7701 LOFTS Bound Brook, NJ A Patch of Green • 5 • September/October 1995 irv N e w s Benham Chemicals has extended the hours at its Saginaw facility and is now open for customer pickup Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. till 5 p.m. Saturday service will be available in spring and as weather dictates during the ice melter season. Located at 300 Cass Ave., a full offering of fertiliz­ insecticides, fungicides, aquatic ers, herbicides, chemicals and winter ice melters are available for pick up or delivery. Carl Quackenbush will head up this service center expansion. Carl joins Benham Chemical from Stanton Seed, where he worked in customer service, ware­ housing and delivery. Carl's extensive experience and knowledge in agriculture will benefit Benham cus­ tomers. call (517) 793-8210 or FAX (517) 793-8695. Doug Fenner and Gordie Bushong also have joined the Benham Chemical Corp. sales staff from Stanton Seed. Doug will serve the greater metropol­ itan Detroit area with an emphasis on lawn care, land­ scape, hydroseeding materials and sports turf. Doug has more than 20 years' experience serving the lawn and garden, turf and nursery markets. He is a Michigan Certified Nurseryman and a Metro Detroit Landscape Association member. Gordie Bushong has more than 10 years' experi­ ence in lawn care and nursery industries and is a Michigan Certified Nurseryman. He will cover areas north of Bay City and work with golf, lawn care, municipalities and tree service. A Commitment to Quality Turf Care Products For You - The Turf Care Professional T e e T im e 22-4-18 Fertilizer with Nut r alene the professional's partner ThcC«S> A ndersons Your Tee Time Distributor Offers You: Greens and Fairway Fertilizers with Nutralene Quality Sulfur Coated Urea Fertilizer Combination Products Granular Insecticides Granular Fungicides Distributed by: (810) 437-1427 1-800-521-TURF (MI only) Turfgrass, Inc. 28064 Pontiac Trail South Lyon, MI 48178 Andersons Lawn Fertilizer Group P.O. Box 119 Maumee, Ohio 43537 VÉ R S At I L •I T Y • T h at s the N um ber One concept th a t w ent into design in g the New Goossen Super Rake n Vac tø m v i ftAKr»VACi T h e N ew Goossen Super R ake n Vac is a revolutionary product now bringing unparalleled v ersatility to th e in d u stry w ith its uniq u e new th re e -d e c k d e sig n , a llo w in g th e o p e ra to r to choose a specific deck for a specific application. Rake n Vac combines rotating flails, brush and vacuum to rake the turf and then vacuum up the loose debris. Brush n Vac utilizes a 10" counter-rotating brush and vacuum to sweep areas clean of small debris. Vacuum Only deck concentrates the power of the 32" blower to vacuum a 96" wide swath. D istributed by: 12137 372 Mile Rd. Battle C reek, M I Ph: (616)^979-1151 SUPPLY COMPANY farm e q u ip m e n t w holesalers established in 1947 B e c k S o d F a m n 1 r**r,>.Tr»i y GEORGE & LOIS BECK Phone: (517) 864-3549 Peat or Topsoil Sod Bluegrass Blends ^ Bluegrass Fescue Mixes Penncross Bent (New 1995) Shade Trees (#1 or Park Grade) Peat Moss Bulk Greens Mix SOD THE EASY WAY BECK S BIG ROLL ( 5 1 7 ) 864-3549 TURFGRASS INC. Serving you better with .. Technical information Free timely delivery ... Quality products Fertilizers Chemicals Seeds Spreaders & Sprayers Golf Supplies The Andersons, Lebanon, Sustane, Country Club, Nitroform, Nutralene, Once, Peters, Turfgrass Custom Blend Ciba-Geigy, W.A. Cleary, Chipco, Roots, Daconil, Miles, NAIAD, Monsanto, Dow-Elanco, Grace-Sierra, Nor-Am, Riverdale, PanaSea', Miller, Agri-Plex 4X Lawnplex, No-Mix, Regal Chemical, Dimension, Sand-Aid, Roundup, Dissolve Medalist America Grass Seed, Bloomcoat W ildflower Seed, Zajac Confidence Seed Cyclone, Spyker, Solo Back Pack, Wheely, Spray-Hawk, Chem-Pro Par Aide, Standard, Fore-Par, United Stockmen, Fox Valley, Master of the Links Environmental Equipment Plia Pads, Haz-Store Storage Buildings Safety Equipment Mine Safety Equipment Soil Management Grid System, TerraFlow, TerraBond, TerraCover Markers Richway, Blazon Recycled Plastic Hammer’s Recycled Plastics 1- 810- 437-1427 Office 1-800-521-8873 (M ichigan Only) Keith Richards Dan Johanningsmeier Gene Johanningsmeier Doug Johanningsmeier Richard Locke Todd Griebe Robert McNab Darold Howard A Patch of Green • 7 • September/October 1995 BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS KNOLLWOOD COUNTRY CLUB MONDAY, JUNE 19,1995 Membership (Shreve): Membership totals 394, and nine applications for membership were approved. Member Relations (McKinley): Has produced a new brochure/application. Hopes to have it available at the next meeting. Finance (Dushane): The Bylaws for the Foundation will be sent to the membership and voted on at the August meeting. Special Olympics (Hock/Co-Chair): Met our goal of $12,500. Our donation will be earmarked for needy chapters in our area, Special Olympic Golf activities and the balance to Michigan Special Olympics. Congratulations to the Committee on a job well done! Golf Day (Szyndlar): Golf Day will be held on Monday, October 2. Four sites have been confirmed: Detroit G.C., Meadowbrook C.C., Bay Pointe G.C., Walnut Creek C.C. Still look­ ing for the final site. Statewide Magazine (Kolbe): A meeting is planned for mid-July in Mt. Pleasant, at which Kolka & Robb, Inc., the publishers of Patch of Green will present their proposal for producing a statewide magazine to the edi­ tors and officers of the Western, Northern and Mid-Michigan Associations. Disaster/Relief Fund: The Board approved the estab­ lishing of a Disaster/Relief Fund to aid local members and their immediate families in time of need. Two dollars per attendee per monthly meeting will be allocated to the fund. Funds will be distributed at the Board's discretion. KNOLLWOOD COUNTRY CLUB MONDAY, JULY 24,1995 Membership (Shreve): Membership totals 401, and three applications for membership were approved. Finance (Dushane): Dues: Dues statements will go out by August 15. Dues must be paid by October 1. Relief fund: Attorney investigating necessary procedures to establish fund. Golf Day (Szyndlar): Continuing to seek fifth site. Statewide Magazine (Kolbe): Meeting was held on July 13 at Mt. Pleasant, with all associations represented. Kolka & Robb, Inc. made presentation. Associations to consider. A Patch of Green • 8 • September/October 1995 Picnic (McKinley): Date: Saturday, August 19 Site: Gunnar Mettala Park, Wixom Call in reservations. Bring a side dish to pass. Baked Bean Cook Off. Nominating Committee (DeBusscher): Committee of past presidents meeting to establish slate of nominees for October election. Past Presidents’ Luncheon (DeBusscher): Luncheon to be held annually during first week of November for purpose of sharing and planning. COMMITTEE REPORTS Membership Relations Mark McKinley, Chairman The membership relations committee was set up this year to try to encourage members and non-members to get involved. Our feelings are that this association's main functions are to educate and serve mem­ bers. This only can happen if people in the industry commit the time to become active. One area that is being addressed is comfort at meet­ ings. The first few meetings can be difficult for new members. I would encourage everyone to take a moment to talk with new people and encourage them to join the interaction between So, don't forget to mark Traditionally, food, drink, prizes and the opportunity to play at a beautiful facility are what you receive for a nominal fee. October 2 on your calendar. Get your friends together and get out for a beautiful fall day of golf. Your participation plays a very important role for all of us and the research done at Michigan State University. The field is limited to 100 players per course, and the sooner you get your application in the better chance you have at playing the facility of your choice. K X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X J KLEIN FERTILZERS, INC. 320 Garden Lane Fowlerville, Ml 48836 SfcecioliA&i The “Natural” Organic Fertilzer Choice for Turf and Ornamentals. A M l superintendents. Name tags will be supplied at each meeting to enable you to meet more people. The August meeting was designated as 'bring a guest day' and is intended to give our active members a chance to bring a non or inactive member to a fun event. The committee has developed an informational flyer which includes the purpose and benefits of the association along with an application. This pam­ phlet should help members approach others in the industry. The final area this committee would like to promote is more members active in the running of this association. There are so many things that everyone could do, for example, volunteer to work on a committee, help orga­ nize meetings, submit an article for A Patch of few. Please feel free to give the board or this committee any ideas that possibly could benefit this industry. The Big Event Ed Hock, Chairman October 2,1995, marks the 30th year of Michigan and Border Cities' promotion and participa­ tion in the Big Event. Over the past 30 years, many country clubs in southeastern Michigan have participated by donating their facilities for the fundraising event. The monies raised, in excess of $300,000, have gone for turf research and scholar­ ships. Last year's donations of $22,000 to MTF was the largest ever. This year's participating clubs include Meadowbrook Country Club, Detroit Golf Club, Bay Pointe Country Club, Walnut Creek County Club and a yet to be determined fifth site. NUTRIGANICS" Greto name a X Professional use granular weed and feed grades for lawn maintenance. X Professional use specialty and slow release grades for golf courses, lawn maintenance and nurseries. X Golf Club Green Brand: superior quality retail lawn fertilizers. X Kleins special hydroseed fertilizers are far less abrasive on equipment. X Custom Formulation for special needs, soil test recommendations and bids. X Private label packaging for retailers. ‘206«le&ale 'Pieces • 'po&t Jl' So call your local Lebanon distributor or 1-800-233-0628 for more information. LESCO and Grow With Us are trademarks of LESCO, PolyPlus is a registered trademark of LESCO, Inc. © 1992 Lebanon Turf Products Country Club® is the Registered Trademark of Lebanon Chemical Corporation. Benham Chemical Randy Rogers (810) 673-7146 (810) 474-7474 Turfgrass, Inc. (810) 437-1427 continued from pg. 15... Some examples of occupations for which head protection should be routinely considered are: Carpenters, electricians, linemen, mechanics, plumbers and pipe fitters, sawyers, welders, timber cutting and logging workers, stock handlers and warehouse laborers. Foot Protection - Generally - R408.15385 Each affected employee shall wear protective footwear when working in areas where there is a danger of foot injuries due to falling and rolling objects, or objects piercing the sole, and where such employee's feet are exposed to electrical hazards. Some occupations for which foot protection should be routinely considered are: Shipping and receiving clerks, stock clerks, carpenters, electri­ cians, machinists, mechanics, plumbers and pipefit­ ters, structural metal workers, drywall installers, punch and stamping press operators, sawyers, welders, gardeners and grounds-keepers, timber cutting and logging workers, stock handlers and warehouse laborers. Hand Protection - Generally - R408.15592 Employers shall select and require their employ­ ees to use appropriate hand protection when employees' hands are exposed to hazards that may cause any of the following: skin absorption of harm­ ful substances, severe cuts or lacerations, severe abrasions, punctures, chemical burns, thermal burns and harmful temperature extremes. Employers shall base the selection of the appro­ priate hand protection on an evaluation of the per­ formance characteristics of the hand protection relative to all of the following: task(s) to be per­ formed, conditions present, duration of use and the hazards and potential hazards identified. Before purchasing gloves, the employer should request documentation from the manu facturer that the gloves meet the appropriate test standard(s) for the hazard(s) anticipated. A copy of Part 33. Personal Protective Equipment can be obtained by contacting The Department of Labor Standards Division at (517) 322-1845. PU M P S E R V IC E IN SHOP REBUILDING » REMOVAL AND REINSTALLATION CONSULTATION AND ONSITE REPAIR SINCE 1945 NORTH END ELECTRIC CO. 2000 BELLAIRE ROYAL OAK, MI 48067 810 398-8187 SPARTAN BRAND YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR OVER 60 YEARS.... F r o m t e e t o g r e e n Im p r o v e d v a r ie t ie s R e l ia b il it y S e l e c t io n T e c h n ic a l h e l p CALL 1-800-647-TURF MICHIGAN STATE SEED CO. 717 N. CLINTON GRAND LEDGE, MICHIGAN A Patch of Green • 17 • September/October 1995 1 9 9 6 1 0 - T O N D U A L T A N D E M Axle Capacity - Each Brakes Platform length Decking Platform height Safety ledge Drawbar length Beavertail length Overall length Overall width Ramps Towing device Lights Break-a-way w/charger 10 TON LOAD CAP.-DUAL AXLE TANDEM MODEL TDO 2024 10,000 lbs. Electric, both axles 24’ (19’ flat, 5’ beavertail) 2” oak 34” Standard 5’ 5’ self cleaning with bucket well 29’8’ 5’ Adj. fold-over, w/spring assist 2.5’ Adj. pintle ICC/DOT, Sealed beam Break-a-way switch w/trickle charger Optional Equipment Shown Retail Price $8900.00* ^eatuvinq the ^Dextev v " \ f N 1 R E N T A L H 8 1 0 - 3 7 3 - 8 2 0 0 A Risk Management Approach to Lightning Safety by Rich Kithil, President American Lightning Protection and Every golfers year many course employees are caught on America's golf links as thunder rumbles in the distance then grows louder and sharper as storm clouds darken the sky and light­ ning flashes within the clouds and to Earth. A recent study found that golf is one of the leading activities during which lightning deaths and injuries occur. With the proliferation of liability lawsuits, there is added pressure for golf course owners and man­ agers to warn and protect customers and employees from lightning's hazards. Most lawsuits from light­ ning events are based on allegations of negligence to warn and protect. and For example, the widow of a golfer who was killed by a lightning strike at Quail Chase Golf Course in Jefferson County, Kentucky, filed a suit against the course owners, charging negligence due to "failure to install adequate warning In another case, a golf course was found systems." negligent by a jury and held liable for the lightning deaths in an unprotected shelter building. The cou­ ple's minor children were awarded damages suffi­ cient to pay for their care and education. operate To address these liability issues and to satisfy the "Duty to Warn" considerations, course managers must plan and implement appropriate safety mea­ sures. A comprehensive risk management plan against lightning hazards should include the follow­ ing: Detection: With the development of reliable light­ ning detection devices, it is frequently possible to warn of lightning hazards before they occur. These systems should be installed on the course. Notification: Course-installed alert devices can be used to send an audible notice to customers and Continued on page 20 Lig htn ing Safety Tips □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ □ / / / / / / H illtops Open areas isolated or solitary trees Wire fences Golf carts Electrical and maintenance machines Wet areas Lakes and rivers Power lines Seek Lower elevation areas Dense wooded areas Bushes Protected designated shelters Large metal frame buildings Enclosed automobiles with metal tops USCA Rule 6-8 allows players to discontinue play if they believe there is a danger from lightning. Coif officials may suspend play when a lightning hazard is detected. i i i i i i i i i i n i ■ A Patch of Green • 19 • September/October 1995 Continued from page 19 workers of the hazard. Signs and other visual mes­ sages should be displayed. Protection: All golf courses should have a lightning- safe clubhouse and shelters. Shelter buildings on a golf course can become lightning traps unless they have proper design and equipment. Education: Golfers should be given printed instruc­ tions that advise how and where to take shelter dur­ ing a thunderstorm. Signs that describe lightning safety measures should be prominently displayed in the clubhouse or on the golf cart. CPR training for course employees should be conducted on a regular basis. Documentation: The golf course's lightning safety plan should be recorded with such information as dates of equipment inspection, employee training and other pertinent details. By acquiring the capabil­ ity to detect, notify and protect golfers and employ­ ees, course management can demonstrate a 'best effort' defense against the lightning hazard. In con­ trast, failure to implement the capability to detect, notify and protect can provide significant difficulty for the golf course that is being sued from a light­ ning-related incident. Lightning will continue to be a random event and your facility may or may not be its next target. A comprehensive risk management program is the only way to maximize the safety of your facility against lightning. A Patch of Green • 20 • September/October 1995 DAVEY OFFERS EVERY TREE CARE SERVICE YOU’LL EVER NEED. You know that mature trees add challenge as well as beauty. You also know ma­ ture trees are impossible to replace. Davey knows how to help protect these valu­ able assets from decline, lightning, storm damage, insects and disease. Davey professionals will inventory your trees, evaluate the condition of each one, and give you a rep o rt prioritizing treatments. Over time, expert care from Davey will actually reduce your tree maintenance costs. Keep your most valuable assets standing tall with the leader in tree care since 1880. Call Davey today at (810) 689-2200 (in Troy) or (313) 459-8690 (in Canton Twp.) D A V EYJ TREE AND LAWN BEAUTY TURFGRASS SPECIALISTS FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY BRIGHTON (800) 482-3130 FAX: (810) 632-5840 BRADLEY (800) 632-1998 FAX: (616) 792-0700 v TERRA TOPPER TOP DRESS IN HOURS • Dual Spinners allow left, right or full pattern material distribution. • Control speed of spinner to speed you require. • Spreads from 15' to 20'. • 70" in length. • 61" in width. • 54" in height. • Approximately 3/4 yard hopper. • Two 24 x 13 x 12 Tires. • 8HP Electric Start Briggs & Stratton Engine. • Weight 870 pounds. The Terra Topper's dual spinners and auger are all hydraulically driven and can be turned off or on from the drivers seat. The spinner speed can be controlled from slow to fast. The auger speed can also be set for the amount of material the operator likes to spread. Also the spinners can be tilted up or down. The Topper can be pulled by most any turf vehicle. It produces a very fine spread putting the material in the grass. Play or putting will not be affected. Commercial Ct mT John L. Kirtland 149 N. Perry, Pontiac, Michigan 48342 Fax:(810)338-0429 (810)858-7705 A Patch of Green • 22 • september/October 1995 Around ««Course "When we started this pro­ gram, we did not have one blue­ bird here we could identify. Now, we have more than you can count. That's Superintendent Robert Mateja as he was quoted in The Detroit News in an article about the Fox Hills Country Club's certification by the Audubon Society of New York State. Fox Hills is one of three courses in the state and 36 in the country to be certified for its environmen­ tal efforts. The two other Michigan the Tournament courses are Players Club of Michigan in Dearborn and the Treetops Sylvan Resort in Gaylord. The certifica­ tion endorses Earth-friendly changes. One big change cited is in water use. According to the society, the water used on one 18- hole course has been cut from 2.5 million gallons a day during peak season to 750,000 gallons a day. Audubon director The article cited Jean Mackay, education the Audubon Society of New York State. "Getting Michigan's 1.3 mil­ lion golfers to accept a little scrub­ by prairie grass on the side of the fairway may be the hardest part," she said. "A lot of times, it's the golfers who are demanding these perfect conditions. The nature of the course is just as important as how fast or how far your ball goes." for WE’LL GIVE YOU A ‘HEAD START’ From computer based centrals, to radio, to electro­ mechanical, TORO has the irrigation control system to meet your needs and budget Put the right amount of water in the right place, at the right time, with TORO. NETWORK 8000 NETWORK LTC OSMAC VTII VT4000 TORO MOTOROLA For more information on automating or upgrading your current system, CALL SPARTAN DISTRIBUTORS, INC. Specializing in Turf and Irrigation Equipment 1050 OP DYKE RD. (810) 373-8800 487 W. DIVISION ST. SPARTA, Ml 49345 (616) 887-7301 AUBURN HILLS, Ml 48326 A Patch of Green • 23 • September/October 1995 4 REASONS TO CALL CENTURY RAIN AID... KNOWLEDGE TO SOLVE YOUR PROBLEMS - With over 30 years of experience in golf irrigation, we have the answers to the problems you’ll face in the field. We’re not "the new guys” trying to sell you something. We want to help you. INVENTORY FOR ANY IRRIGATION SITUATION YOU FACE - With over 36 locations to ship from, Century has the parts you need NOW. Plus, we know how they work and how they're put together. PUMP HOUSE AND CONTROL SYSTEM KNOWLEDGE & APPLICATION - We approach your problems with solutions that benefit you .... not the desires of some manufacturing engineer that doesn’t know the difference between a fairway & a rough. We’ll design solutions that are in your best interest, in terms of both price and practicality. PEOPLE THAT KNOW YOUR BUSINESS - We’ve got the people who know your business. We’ll develop creative solutions to solve your problems. Century Rain Aid CALL TOLL FREE; 1-800-347-4272 MADISON HEIGHTS* GRAND RAPIDS 4620 40th St. S.E. 31691 Dequindre W estern Michigan Eastern Michigan (810) 588-2990 • Fax (810) 588-3528 (616) 954-0660 • Fax (616) 954-0664 ANN ARBOR 2161 S. Industrial Hwy. (313)668-1020 Fax (313) 668-7143 COMMERCE 1855 Nicolas Ct. (810) 960-1882 Fax (810) 960-4163 LIVONIA 12780 Currie Ct. (313)462-4050 Fax (313)462-6302 SOUTHFIELD 22169 Telegraph (810) 358-2994 Fax (810) 358-1022 WASHINGTON 57695 Van Dyke (810) 781-3600 Fax(810) 781-7125 Plus over 30 additional locations to serve you! FF-II is your first line defense against winter diseases ^ In university testing Scotts FF-II has consistently out­ performed all other PCNB products. In one convenient application, FF-II controls pink and gray snowmold, cool season brown patch, leaf spot, dollar spot, stripe smut and rust while providing a dormant feeding of 14-3-3 fertilizer for early spring green-up. A sk your ProTurf® Tech Rep for details. JOHN SKAIFE Senior Technical Representative The O.M. Scott & Sons Company Professional Business Group 9120 Sandison Drive White Lake, Ml 48386 Tel (810) 698-2358 or 1-800-543-0006 today. v v ' s v m i i r r c T T w s \ / \ / wmtommmm H LJvPOE I I SOD FARM, INC. • TOP QUALITY SOD • PENNCROSS OR PENNLINKS OR • SHADE MIX (Bluegrass, Fescue mix for fairways & PROVIDENCE BENT (Grown on mason sand or loam soil) erosion control.) - Good on Sandy Soils or in Shade. NUGGET + II (Bluegrass Blend) - Grade A or Commercial Peat or Top Soil Base. SOIL FREE SOD AVAILABLE vJ*. The Nifty Fifty Big Roll. >v' • Less Labor • Easy Laying • Less Seams FOR GREENS MIX ♦ BULK SPHAGNUM PEAT ♦ SHADE & ORNAMENTAL TREES 4114 East Marlette Rd. ♦ Marlette, Ml 48453 Turf Chemicals Inc. 1011 E. Main P.O. Box 451 Owosso, Michigan 48867 Phone: (517) 725-7145 FOR ALL OF YOUR FERTILIZER, CHEMICAL AND GRASS SEED NEEDS EXPERIENCED, DEPEN DAB LE PEOPLE TO SERVE YOU • Russ Hancock • Jay Siddock • Fred Miller • Lou Beckman • Ted Kasel • Chris Fochtman Carefree Distributors Turf Division 1-800-8 7 5 -4 7 4 5 Trenton, M l 48183 Member MBCGCSA Michigan Turf Foundation We have a full line of golf course supplies. Spring Valley Fertilizer (full golf course line) See what Spring Valley can do for you! • Sand trap rakes • Custom seed blends • Bent grass seed