Turf News - December 2022
19 DEC 2022
As 2022 comes to a close, we are back at our drawing board getting ready for the 2023 season. We analyze what went well and what we can improve. The first thing that comes to mind when we take a look back is holy crap, this summer was extremely busy! A good busy, at RattleSnake every year is busy, but with the added bunker project mixed with one of the driest summers on record, we had our work cut out for us. While our bunkers were being constructed by Ryan and his crew at Rhino Golf Services, we were trying to help out as much as possible to keep the project moving and on schedule. We had a bit of a later start this summer since Ryan had to finish up a few projects at Lampton before making his way here for June 1st. In six months we were able to complete close to half the bunkers on Copperhead, one bunker on the Chipping Green, and build a forward tee deck on 12 Sidewinder. When the project resumes early in the spring we will be starting on 10 CH. In fact, one of our winter plans is to get a head start on 10 with the removal of the fairway bunker along the pond. That bunker is one of the hardest to maintain on the golf course with the drainage system sitting at the same level as that pond making it almost impossible for the sand to dry out there.
Another big project we have planned for this winter is to repair the rock wall on 6SW. If you haven’t noticed, about 80% of the armour stone rocks are sliding into the pond. It is going to be a long process to fix, the stones along the entire 200 yard stretch have to be removed, we have to dig and change the grade of the sub, and the lay each stone back in place. Lets hope the weather cooperates that we can get this completed.
Even though it is our off season, there is still a lot to do, winter is going to fly by. We were able to get all of our greens vert-drained, top-dressed, fertilized, tees fertilized and top-dressed. We still have a couple more equipment pieces to power wash and the starter hut is making some progress! The inside and outside walls are up, electrical work is done, just need the ceiling and trim.
Next week is clean-up week, we tear down our shop, all the benches, grinders and equipment are pulled out into our cold storage, and the shop walls and floors get a power wash and painting, there is nothing like starting the new year fresh and clean.
From the turf department we wish you and your families a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. We are looking forward to seeing you in a short few months!
Sincerely,
The Turf Team