As a part of our class on environmental management for golf courses, we each wrote an essay on the topic of what is sustainable golf. The essay I wrote focuses on what the definition of sustainability is and how we apply that definition to a golf course setting.
Click here to be taken to my essay "What is Sustainable Golf?"
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
AGSA Property Manager's Conference
From Monday, Nov 28 to Tuesday, Nov 29 I had the pleasure of attending the Alberta Golf Superintendents Association (AGSA) Property Manager's Conference. This conference provides educational seminars to industry professionals in the areas of turfgrass management, horticultural management, mechanics, and irrigation. My fellow classmates and I got to sit in on some quality education and I hope to apply what I've learnt. It's also a great chance to meet others in the industry, and I got to meet some superintendents from all over Alberta.
I was honored to receive the AGSA Student Scholarship during the conference. This award consists of a monetary gift and certificate of recognition. I am humbled and thankful for being honored with this award. The money will go directly to furthering my education by allowing me to attend the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association Conference and Trade show in Calgary this year. Thanks again to the AGSA for your support.
I was honored to receive the AGSA Student Scholarship during the conference. This award consists of a monetary gift and certificate of recognition. I am humbled and thankful for being honored with this award. The money will go directly to furthering my education by allowing me to attend the Canadian Golf Superintendents Association Conference and Trade show in Calgary this year. Thanks again to the AGSA for your support.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Enviro Blog: Innovation Goals
This post is a part of the TRF 4100 environmental blog assignment
Olds College is a leader in innovation and the 3-hole golf course should reflect this. There are many opportunities to improve the efficiency and sustainability of our practices in the turf industry. We hope to explore these areas of innovation and show others our results.
Power Usage
The amount of money spent on electricity is substantial at golf courses. The majority of expenses come from running the pumphouse on the course. Is there any way we can decrease the amount of money spent on electricity? We believe there is.
First, let's look inside the maintenance shop. A light switch can easily be left on when nobody is in the shop. This is a waste of electricity. Normal light switches could be swapped for motion sensor lights. Updating heating systems to more efficient appliances can greatly reduce the power used. Something as simple as ensuring windows and doors are closed can also reduce the power used for heating. Still using incandescent light bulbs? Try switching to the new eco-friendly bulbs that are available that need far less electricity to run. What about old air compressors? Hearing the constant hum of air compressors running in the shop is not uncommon. Either updating to new compressors or only plugging them in when necessary might stop the constant hum.
Now for out on the course. Probably the main drain on power is the pumphouse. Research should be done into how you pay for your power. Some provinces provide discounts for irrigation pumps. By putting a separate meter on your pumphouse, you could pay less for the power that is used. There is also the potential for experimenting with solar and wind power. Solar panels can be added to the pumphouse to help power the pumps and reduce electricity consumption from the grid.
Composting
Neighbouring the location of the 3-hole course is the Olds College Composting Program. This site uses compost from all over campus and the town of Olds to create high quality compost. The use of compost on golf courses is increasing, and people are beginning to wonder where it can be applied.
The 3-hole course can contribute to the composting program. Clippings from mowers and branches can be sent to the compost facility to be used. This eliminates the need for a "bone yard" or organic waste dump on the course.
The course can also benefit from the composting program. Experiments can be performed to find out if compost is an effective amendment to golf course soils. Topdressing the rough and fairways on the course could provide valuable nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Because compost can be extremely variable, green applications of compost will be avoided.
Equipment
With the advent of electric and hybrid cars, maintenance equipment is beginning to utilize this same technology. Companies such as Toro, John Deere, and Jacobsen are now offering electric and hybrid versions of their equipment. The course would be a perfect place to demo this equipment and run experiments to compare the efficiency between them. Which is best for the environment? Which uses the least fuel?
There is also a biodiesel plant on campus that creates biodiesel out of seed and oil. Diesel equipment could be powered using biodiesel as a fuel source. Research could be performed on the efficacy of this fuel source and whether it is reliable.
Pesticides
The use of pesticides remains a hotly debated topic. Many are calling for their ban as professionals who use the products point out their safety when used properly. Right now, many courses do not have adequate means of storing pesticides and rinsing equipment. This provides and opportunity for the 3-hole course to be a leader in innovation.
There are many self-contained wash bays coming onto the market. By purchasing one of these, the Olds course can monitor its use and provide data on just how useful it is. One such product available is the ESD waste 2 water wash pads. They also provide small storage sheds that meet all requirements of the Alberta government for pesticide storage. The course can provide an example to visiting superintendents and demonstrate the usefulness of these items.
Olds College is a leader in innovation and the 3-hole golf course should reflect this. There are many opportunities to improve the efficiency and sustainability of our practices in the turf industry. We hope to explore these areas of innovation and show others our results.
Power Usage
The amount of money spent on electricity is substantial at golf courses. The majority of expenses come from running the pumphouse on the course. Is there any way we can decrease the amount of money spent on electricity? We believe there is.
First, let's look inside the maintenance shop. A light switch can easily be left on when nobody is in the shop. This is a waste of electricity. Normal light switches could be swapped for motion sensor lights. Updating heating systems to more efficient appliances can greatly reduce the power used. Something as simple as ensuring windows and doors are closed can also reduce the power used for heating. Still using incandescent light bulbs? Try switching to the new eco-friendly bulbs that are available that need far less electricity to run. What about old air compressors? Hearing the constant hum of air compressors running in the shop is not uncommon. Either updating to new compressors or only plugging them in when necessary might stop the constant hum.
Now for out on the course. Probably the main drain on power is the pumphouse. Research should be done into how you pay for your power. Some provinces provide discounts for irrigation pumps. By putting a separate meter on your pumphouse, you could pay less for the power that is used. There is also the potential for experimenting with solar and wind power. Solar panels can be added to the pumphouse to help power the pumps and reduce electricity consumption from the grid.
Composting
Neighbouring the location of the 3-hole course is the Olds College Composting Program. This site uses compost from all over campus and the town of Olds to create high quality compost. The use of compost on golf courses is increasing, and people are beginning to wonder where it can be applied.
The 3-hole course can contribute to the composting program. Clippings from mowers and branches can be sent to the compost facility to be used. This eliminates the need for a "bone yard" or organic waste dump on the course.
The course can also benefit from the composting program. Experiments can be performed to find out if compost is an effective amendment to golf course soils. Topdressing the rough and fairways on the course could provide valuable nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Because compost can be extremely variable, green applications of compost will be avoided.
Equipment
With the advent of electric and hybrid cars, maintenance equipment is beginning to utilize this same technology. Companies such as Toro, John Deere, and Jacobsen are now offering electric and hybrid versions of their equipment. The course would be a perfect place to demo this equipment and run experiments to compare the efficiency between them. Which is best for the environment? Which uses the least fuel?
There is also a biodiesel plant on campus that creates biodiesel out of seed and oil. Diesel equipment could be powered using biodiesel as a fuel source. Research could be performed on the efficacy of this fuel source and whether it is reliable.
Pesticides
The use of pesticides remains a hotly debated topic. Many are calling for their ban as professionals who use the products point out their safety when used properly. Right now, many courses do not have adequate means of storing pesticides and rinsing equipment. This provides and opportunity for the 3-hole course to be a leader in innovation.
There are many self-contained wash bays coming onto the market. By purchasing one of these, the Olds course can monitor its use and provide data on just how useful it is. One such product available is the ESD waste 2 water wash pads. They also provide small storage sheds that meet all requirements of the Alberta government for pesticide storage. The course can provide an example to visiting superintendents and demonstrate the usefulness of these items.
Enviro Blog: Outreach and Education
This post is a part of the TRF 4100 environmental blog assignment
An important sectionof the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program is outreach and education. The following are several ideas that could happen in the future at the Olds College 3-hole golf course.
An important sectionof the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program is outreach and education. The following are several ideas that could happen in the future at the Olds College 3-hole golf course.
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| (c) http://golfsuper1.blogspot.com |
1. Host tours for students at Olds High School
This is an outreach event that could happen every year. More and more schools are teaching students about ecology and environmental issues. What better place to do it then on an Audubon certified site? An opportunity like this could show students the benefits that golf courses provide to a community and the environment. At the same time, it could encourage students to consider future careers in the golf industry.
2. Open the course to the Olds Art Club or the Foothills Camera Club
3. Provide educational experiences to Olds College Students
This opportunity is almost a certainty. Olds College students will be given a chance to come and explore the course and hear about the ways we are promoting sustainability. Turfgrass management students can be given practical opportunities to build features on the course and operate equipment. Land and water students can observe how we use naturalized areas to filter water and promote wildlife on the course. This occasion provides the course help with any projects on the course that need to be done, while at the same time giving students practical learning opportunities.
4. Partner with the composting site on campus and provide seminars to the public
The course already plans on partnering with the Olds College composting program. This partnership provides an opportunity to educate the citizens of Olds on proper composting techniques. They can come and see how we compost our clippings and then use this compost on the course. Not only does this provide practical education to members of the public, but it also raises awareness of our environmental practices on the course and on campus.
Aububon International provides the following documents to help you plan and organize outreach events.
Choosing Outreach Projects
Programs for Schools and Youth
Creating a Culture of Environmental Stewardship
Enviro Blog: Integrated Pest Management
This post is a part of the TRF 4100 environmental blog assignment
Our IPM plan for the 3-hole course utilizes the following best management practices. Thresholds and monitoring practices are general guidelines and each identified pest requires specific thresholds, monitoring practices, and management strategies:
Our IPM plan for the 3-hole course utilizes the following best management practices. Thresholds and monitoring practices are general guidelines and each identified pest requires specific thresholds, monitoring practices, and management strategies:
- Active measures will be taken to identify pests on the course. Identified pests will be entered into a database of know course pests. This will include arthropods, weeds, and diseases.
- Monitoring for these arthropods and diseases will be done when environmental conditions favor their development.
- Monitoring for aggressive, invasive weeds will be done monthly to record progress of the weeds and effectiveness of control strategies.
- Applications of chemicals and any cultural practices done to deter or control pests will be recorded and include the following information: name of applicator, date, reason, pest, control, and effectiveness.
- Signage must be posted to inform guests and members of any pesticide applications on the golf course
- Re-entry intervals of pesticides must be followed to ensure safety of staff and golfers
- Environmental data will be recorded daily to help predict conditions favorable to pests
- The image provides general guidelines for damage caused by different pests in different areas of the course. These thresholds guidelines are based on the priority of the area and the ability of those areas to resist different pests:
Friday, November 18, 2011
Enviro Blog: 3-Hole Location
This post is a part of the TRF 4100 environmental blog assignment
The 3-hole golf proposal is an exciting opportunity for Olds College. Up until recently, Olds College had a three-hole golf course on campus giving turf students a location to practice what they had been learning. However, a new high school has been built on that land. Also, the current location of the Prairie Turfgrass Research Centre (PTRC) is being replaced to build a hotel for students to take hospitality education. These are exciting opportunities for Olds College, but turf students have lost some of the hands on learning it used to have.
Well, that will change. There is a new proposal to build new plots for the PTRC and a new three-hole golf facility. The location is east of the Land Science Centre past the newly constructed wetlands. This is an exciting opportunity for students to not only learn maintenance practices, but also learn practical golf construction skills. The students will aid in construction of bunkers, greens, tees, and more on the golf course.
The 3-hole golf proposal is an exciting opportunity for Olds College. Up until recently, Olds College had a three-hole golf course on campus giving turf students a location to practice what they had been learning. However, a new high school has been built on that land. Also, the current location of the Prairie Turfgrass Research Centre (PTRC) is being replaced to build a hotel for students to take hospitality education. These are exciting opportunities for Olds College, but turf students have lost some of the hands on learning it used to have.
Well, that will change. There is a new proposal to build new plots for the PTRC and a new three-hole golf facility. The location is east of the Land Science Centre past the newly constructed wetlands. This is an exciting opportunity for students to not only learn maintenance practices, but also learn practical golf construction skills. The students will aid in construction of bunkers, greens, tees, and more on the golf course.
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| Future location of the 3-hole facility and the new PTRC plots, they will be built where the field is now |
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Enviro Blog: Naturalization and Wildlife
This post is a part of the TRF 4100 environmental blog assignment
Despite how beautiful a golf course might look, it is hard to call it truly a natural place. When compared to an industrial plot it might seem that way, but in the end, it is a horticultural environment that is often artificially built and maintained by humans. This isn't a bad thing. Golf courses offer an escape from the city and often provide an oasis for animals and birds. The process of naturalization, the planting and growing of native species, on golf courses is becoming more popular. The Olds College 3-hole course will be looking to integrate this idea into the final design of the course.
Naturalization
Located in the mixedgrass region of Alberta, Olds College is known for its horticultural innovation. What better place to practice naturalization then here? The course will be designed to allow for areas of native grasses and plants. With these areas implemented from design, management and monitoring of these areas will be much easier compared to putting them in after construction.
These areas are often referred to as zero-maintenance, but this is not correct. Maintenance is often significantly reduced, yet some maintenance is still required. After the grass seed is given 3-4 years to establish, annual mowing practices may be put in place. This mowing will take place once a year after the grass has gone to seed. Mowing these areas helps reduce weed populations, remove dry grass (which can be a fire hazard), and encourage the grass to spread. Burning of native areas is an option and will be considered; however, the safety of golfers and the environment from potential damage caused by wildfires is a concern and the decision will be weighed with these parameters in mind.
There are several key areas where the use of native grasses can benefit a golf course. Due to their inability to be mowed short, they cannot be used in fairways and playable rough. However, areas outside of the rough, out-of-play areas, and areas beside bodies of water are potential locations. The following areas and the subsequent mixes chosen are suggested for their ability to thrive in those specified areas. These only apply for the south-east area of Alberta. Other areas may favor different species of grasses. Links are provided to demonstrate who provides these mixes. These areas could include the following mixes of native grass:
What are the benefits of naturalization? Check out what Audubon International has to say regarding the benefits of tall grass and the benefits of naturalization.
Wildlife Management
At the 3-hole course, we want to promote native wildlife in the area. Providin these naturalized areas will give animals shelter, habitat, and safe access to water. Research can be done to see what wildlife favors these native areas and how we can better encourage there presence. The following sheet will be used to observe wildlife presence on the course and will be updated by staff when a sighting is made.
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| Banff Springs - An example of naturalization |
Despite how beautiful a golf course might look, it is hard to call it truly a natural place. When compared to an industrial plot it might seem that way, but in the end, it is a horticultural environment that is often artificially built and maintained by humans. This isn't a bad thing. Golf courses offer an escape from the city and often provide an oasis for animals and birds. The process of naturalization, the planting and growing of native species, on golf courses is becoming more popular. The Olds College 3-hole course will be looking to integrate this idea into the final design of the course.
Naturalization
Located in the mixedgrass region of Alberta, Olds College is known for its horticultural innovation. What better place to practice naturalization then here? The course will be designed to allow for areas of native grasses and plants. With these areas implemented from design, management and monitoring of these areas will be much easier compared to putting them in after construction.
These areas are often referred to as zero-maintenance, but this is not correct. Maintenance is often significantly reduced, yet some maintenance is still required. After the grass seed is given 3-4 years to establish, annual mowing practices may be put in place. This mowing will take place once a year after the grass has gone to seed. Mowing these areas helps reduce weed populations, remove dry grass (which can be a fire hazard), and encourage the grass to spread. Burning of native areas is an option and will be considered; however, the safety of golfers and the environment from potential damage caused by wildfires is a concern and the decision will be weighed with these parameters in mind.
There are several key areas where the use of native grasses can benefit a golf course. Due to their inability to be mowed short, they cannot be used in fairways and playable rough. However, areas outside of the rough, out-of-play areas, and areas beside bodies of water are potential locations. The following areas and the subsequent mixes chosen are suggested for their ability to thrive in those specified areas. These only apply for the south-east area of Alberta. Other areas may favor different species of grasses. Links are provided to demonstrate who provides these mixes. These areas could include the following mixes of native grass:
- Areas in play (Brett Young - Eco-Turf Blend)
- Creeping Red Fescue - 35%
- Sheep Fescue - 20%
- Chewsings Fescue - 25%
- Hard Fescue - 20%
- Areas out of play (Brett Young - Mixedgrass Subregion Mix)
- Western Wheatgrass - 20%
- Slender Wheatgrass - 10%
- Northern Wheatgrass - 10%
- Green Needlegrass - 15%
- Blue Grama Grass - 15%
- Junegrass - 10%
- Indian Rice Grass - 10%
- Erosion control along areas of runoff (A Guide to Using Native Plants on Disturbed Lands)
- Needle and Thread Grass - 30%
- Blue Grama Grass - 20%
- Northern Wheat Grass - 20%
- Canadian Bluegrass - 15%
- Plains Reed Grass - 15%
- Buffer strips and riparian areas by bodies of water (Alberta Transportation)
- Slender Wheatgrass - 30%
- Canada Wildrye - 15%
- Mountain Brome - 15%
- Northern Wheatgrass - 10%
- Western Wheatgrass - 5%
- Indian Rice Grass - 5%
- Alkali Grass - 10%
- Neeldle and Thread Grass - 10%
What are the benefits of naturalization? Check out what Audubon International has to say regarding the benefits of tall grass and the benefits of naturalization.
Wildlife Management
At the 3-hole course, we want to promote native wildlife in the area. Providin these naturalized areas will give animals shelter, habitat, and safe access to water. Research can be done to see what wildlife favors these native areas and how we can better encourage there presence. The following sheet will be used to observe wildlife presence on the course and will be updated by staff when a sighting is made.
Enviro Blog: Water Management
This post is a part of the TRF 4100 environmental blog assignment
Fresh water is an increasingly important commodity in our world. As fresh water sources become less available, societies are striving to increase our water efficiency and reduce pollution that goes into our rivers and lakes. Golf courses are often viewed as an unnecessary drain on our fresh water, and courses that used to rely on fresh water as an irrigation source are forced to find other means of irrigation. Wherever we get our water from, it is important to evaluate how we in the golf industry can reduce the water we use. There are several ways the Olds College 3-hole golf course can do this.
Equipment Wash Area
Every golf course has some designated area for rinsing and cleaning machines. Removing grass clipping from mowers and reels reduces wear on these machines and makes sure there ready to use for the next employee. However, a lot of water can be used during this process. We want to find a way to reduce or recycle this water and stop it from entering our environment and water ways. Many new systems of water recycling for golf courses are coming onto the market. They offer methods of removing grass clippings from equipment and putting the water through a microbial bath to eliminate toxins.
The company ESD Waste2Water offers some exciting innovations for wash pads and mixing areas.
Irrigation Water
The irrigation water to be used on the 3-hole development will be coming from the neighboring Olds College wetlands. This is an exciting project to see the efficacy of man-made wetlands and their use in filtering water. Water will enter the wetlands and be put through a series of canals to filter the water. The water will then flow to a holding pond and will be available for use on the 3-hole course. This is just another way we will be practicing environmental stewardship and water recycling.
Best Management Practices
The following BMPs will be implemented for the 3-hole course and are practiced and recorded regularly:
Fresh water is an increasingly important commodity in our world. As fresh water sources become less available, societies are striving to increase our water efficiency and reduce pollution that goes into our rivers and lakes. Golf courses are often viewed as an unnecessary drain on our fresh water, and courses that used to rely on fresh water as an irrigation source are forced to find other means of irrigation. Wherever we get our water from, it is important to evaluate how we in the golf industry can reduce the water we use. There are several ways the Olds College 3-hole golf course can do this.
Equipment Wash Area
Every golf course has some designated area for rinsing and cleaning machines. Removing grass clipping from mowers and reels reduces wear on these machines and makes sure there ready to use for the next employee. However, a lot of water can be used during this process. We want to find a way to reduce or recycle this water and stop it from entering our environment and water ways. Many new systems of water recycling for golf courses are coming onto the market. They offer methods of removing grass clippings from equipment and putting the water through a microbial bath to eliminate toxins.
The company ESD Waste2Water offers some exciting innovations for wash pads and mixing areas.
Irrigation Water
The irrigation water to be used on the 3-hole development will be coming from the neighboring Olds College wetlands. This is an exciting project to see the efficacy of man-made wetlands and their use in filtering water. Water will enter the wetlands and be put through a series of canals to filter the water. The water will then flow to a holding pond and will be available for use on the 3-hole course. This is just another way we will be practicing environmental stewardship and water recycling.
Best Management Practices
The following BMPs will be implemented for the 3-hole course and are practiced and recorded regularly:
- Water will be tested monthly. Areas to be tested are any water entrance points and exit points on the site, as well as any major holding ponds.
- If water pH is high, the use of acid injection and sulphur burning can be used to lower pH.
- In the case of high salts, a program of gypsum applications timed with rainfall will be introduced to reduce salts and improve turf health.
- In the case of algae forming on the water and a reduction in oxygen in the water, a fountain can be added to improve aeration in the water.
- The use of variable frequency drive pumps will be used. This allows for effective management of the amount of water that is pumped onto the course and reduces irrigation system wear.
- Irrigation audits can be performed regularly by the Olds College students to test the efficacy of rotors and nozzles on the course.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Envrionmental Blog
As a part of our final project for TRF 4100 - Environmental Management for Golf Courses, we are making an environmental blog. This blog will demonstrate our knowledge of environmental practices that can be applied to golf courses. Since I already have a blog, I thought I would incorporate this into what I already have made. I have added an environmental page to the blog, and this page will contain all information, posts and articles related to this assignment.
It's Been Awhile
Well, it's time to get this blog going again.
I have finished my season at Capilano Golf and Country Club and am back in school at Olds College. My time at Capilano was amazing. I am extremely thankful for the chance I had to be a part of the team there and the chance to lead from some astounding individuals in the industry. I will be putting up soon an article I wrote for the Capilano newsletter summing up my time spent there this summer.
I am now taking the Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Golf Course Management. The first semester is quickly coming to a close as projects are due and exams are written. Here is a quick summary of the classes we have taken.
TRF 4100 - Environmental Management for Golf Courses
Our only turf specific course this semester. We explore golf and its relation to the environment and where there has been success and failure in the past. We talk about Audubon International's Cooperative Sanctuary Program and its potential benefits and we use those principles to create environmental management plans for our golf courses.
BHO 3300 - Project Management Principles
What is a project? What steps are involved? How do you successfully complete one on time and what tools are available? This class teaches how to plan and perform large scale projects using the current industry tools available to us.
BHO 4710 - Ethics and Pest Management
Sure, you control your pest, but are you doing it ethically? Are your practices harming others or even yourself? In this class we are challenged in the way we view management decisions and how our choices can have a lasting effect.
BHO 3100 - Research Methods
Research, not my favorite thing, but it is important. We are taught how to understand scientific research and how to undertake our own successfully.
BAS 3999 - Self-Directed Learning
This class is all about lifelong learning, developing our competencies, and presenting our abilities in the job market. This class goes for both semesters and leads into our directed field study in the fourth year.
Well, that’s all for now. I hope to start updating this a little more regularly from now on.
Cheers.
I have finished my season at Capilano Golf and Country Club and am back in school at Olds College. My time at Capilano was amazing. I am extremely thankful for the chance I had to be a part of the team there and the chance to lead from some astounding individuals in the industry. I will be putting up soon an article I wrote for the Capilano newsletter summing up my time spent there this summer.
I am now taking the Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Golf Course Management. The first semester is quickly coming to a close as projects are due and exams are written. Here is a quick summary of the classes we have taken.
TRF 4100 - Environmental Management for Golf Courses
Our only turf specific course this semester. We explore golf and its relation to the environment and where there has been success and failure in the past. We talk about Audubon International's Cooperative Sanctuary Program and its potential benefits and we use those principles to create environmental management plans for our golf courses.
BHO 3300 - Project Management Principles
What is a project? What steps are involved? How do you successfully complete one on time and what tools are available? This class teaches how to plan and perform large scale projects using the current industry tools available to us.
BHO 4710 - Ethics and Pest Management
Sure, you control your pest, but are you doing it ethically? Are your practices harming others or even yourself? In this class we are challenged in the way we view management decisions and how our choices can have a lasting effect.
BHO 3100 - Research Methods
Research, not my favorite thing, but it is important. We are taught how to understand scientific research and how to undertake our own successfully.
BAS 3999 - Self-Directed Learning
This class is all about lifelong learning, developing our competencies, and presenting our abilities in the job market. This class goes for both semesters and leads into our directed field study in the fourth year.
Well, that’s all for now. I hope to start updating this a little more regularly from now on.
Cheers.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Benefits of Turf
Something I have learned quite quickly about the turfgrass industry is that people know very little about turf. Speaking for myself, I knew next to nothing about turf and its benefits to the environment before I began pursuing this career. As turf managers and professionals, I believe part of our responsibility is to educate and inform those we encounter about the benefits of our industry and of the plants we take care of.
The Turfgrass Science team at Ohio State University has put together an excellent and concise video discussing the benefits of turf grass. I highly recommend taking a look at it.
Benefits of Turf
The Turfgrass Science team at Ohio State University has put together an excellent and concise video discussing the benefits of turf grass. I highly recommend taking a look at it.
Benefits of Turf
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
What to Do Next? There's Always Something...
There are alot of projects on the go at Capilano. I will try to start making some posts of these projects and their progression. The first is some work that was done behind the 8th green. This area used to be treed and would create excess shade on the green leading to disease problems. The trees were removed last winter and have been replaced with an attractive mounded area. Trees and small shrubs have now been planted and the area may be used as a nursery for trees. There is still more work to be done in the future, but right now it looks amazing.
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| Installing irrigation to water the sod that would be planted |
A progression of the mounds being formed
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| The final product |
Watching the Pros
I'm a big fan of the game. Despite the heartbreak and pain it dolls out on a regular basis, I keep coming back to the first tee in hopes of improving. I also love watching the PGA Tour. Watching guys like Bubba Watson and Luke Donald make me believe that the game truly is easy (I am always quickly corrected of this mistake during my next round). Until this year, however, I have never had the oppurtunity to see the pros play in person. That changed this past July.
Two opportunities came my way. The first was the RBC Canadian Open being played at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver. Knowing the tournament was approaching, I got in contact with the superintendent at Shaughnessy, Rob Barr and offered my assistance for the tournament. He brought me onto his team for the week of the Open, and I had the chance to see up close what it was like. It can be best summed up as organized chaos. There is always so much happening at any given time. I was blown away by just how many people it takes to pull off such an event. I enjoyed being apart of the team there and gaining insight into how things are done at another course. Watching the golf was a great bonus, and to be there when Sean O'Hair won was great.
The second opportunity was the RBC Invitational that was held at Capilano Golf and Country Club where I am currently working. This was a great event where twelve pros (including Luke Donald, Ernie Els, Mike Weir, Matt Kuchar, and Charl Scwartzel to name a few) came to play a charity event for the Mike Weir Foundation. It was exciting to host the pros on our own course and it was an opportunity to see them up close just having some fun. The compliments we received from them made it well worth the hard work and early morning to get it ready for an 8 AM shotgun. I hope in my future I will have the opportunity to be involved again with more PGA events.
Two opportunities came my way. The first was the RBC Canadian Open being played at Shaughnessy Golf and Country Club in Vancouver. Knowing the tournament was approaching, I got in contact with the superintendent at Shaughnessy, Rob Barr and offered my assistance for the tournament. He brought me onto his team for the week of the Open, and I had the chance to see up close what it was like. It can be best summed up as organized chaos. There is always so much happening at any given time. I was blown away by just how many people it takes to pull off such an event. I enjoyed being apart of the team there and gaining insight into how things are done at another course. Watching the golf was a great bonus, and to be there when Sean O'Hair won was great.
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| Main duties for the week? Picking and filling divots. |
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| The rough was the story of the week |
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| Meeting up with a fellow classmate on the final day |
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Turf Trials of Fiesta
I had an interesting opportunity on the golf course. Our environmental coordinator had recently ordered a product, Fiesta, for the use of controlling broad-leaf weeds. We discussed the product and thought it would be interesting to test Fiesta in comparison with three-way products, those that contain 2,4-D, Dicamba, and Mecoprop-P.
The next week we set up some test plots and did a little hands on research. You can find the final results and write up here. We setup two test plots and tested a full-rate application of Fiesta and a half-rate application of Fiesta in comparison with a full-rate application of Trillion, the three-way product that we used. This is by no means conclusive evidence for the effectiveness of Fiesta. Caution should always be used when using pesticides, especially unfamiliar ones, and the labels should always be followed. I was pleased with the results and would recommend turf managers try this new product. Click on the following two links to go to the labels for the products used.
Fiesta
Trillion
Here are some extra pictures of the research.
The next week we set up some test plots and did a little hands on research. You can find the final results and write up here. We setup two test plots and tested a full-rate application of Fiesta and a half-rate application of Fiesta in comparison with a full-rate application of Trillion, the three-way product that we used. This is by no means conclusive evidence for the effectiveness of Fiesta. Caution should always be used when using pesticides, especially unfamiliar ones, and the labels should always be followed. I was pleased with the results and would recommend turf managers try this new product. Click on the following two links to go to the labels for the products used.
Fiesta
Trillion
Here are some extra pictures of the research.
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| Test Plot A |
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| Test Plot B |
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| Close up of the full-rate Fiesta, notice the effected weed top right and staining of moss |
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| Staining of turf was rare |
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| Another closeup |
Friday, May 13, 2011
Internship - April
Wow, it's been almost a month since I started at Capilano. Time seems to be flying by since we've gotten into full swing. This spring has been a busy time at the course with aeration, projects and battling the weather. Thankfully I have three great mentors, Jamie Robb, Michael Newton, and our new second assistant Eric Gratopp, and excellent coworkers who have all been teaching me and instructing me.
This April has been one of the coldest and wettest in the history of Vancouver. That hasn't slowed us down at all though. Contractors have been a common site with our new maintenance building coming to completion. The course aeration took a week of hard work from a large staff. There are a lot of projects being completed every day, and its hard to keep up with at times. My responsibilities during this time have been varied but I have had many opportunities to learn and try new things. Some of these include:
- Fertilizer calibration
- Tank mixing
- Fairway Primo applications
- Stimping and monitoring soil temperatures
- Adjusting height of cut and bedknife to reel contact
- Walking mower operation
I've been taking lots of pictures as well. The course is beautiful, and I feel truly blessed to be working at such an amazing course.
This April has been one of the coldest and wettest in the history of Vancouver. That hasn't slowed us down at all though. Contractors have been a common site with our new maintenance building coming to completion. The course aeration took a week of hard work from a large staff. There are a lot of projects being completed every day, and its hard to keep up with at times. My responsibilities during this time have been varied but I have had many opportunities to learn and try new things. Some of these include:
- Fertilizer calibration
- Tank mixing
- Fairway Primo applications
- Stimping and monitoring soil temperatures
- Adjusting height of cut and bedknife to reel contact
- Walking mower operation
I've been taking lots of pictures as well. The course is beautiful, and I feel truly blessed to be working at such an amazing course.
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| The Capilano Clubhouse |
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| A practice green/tee box seeded by the clubhouse |
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| Trials of Fiesta I am trying, I will post an update about this when it is concluded |
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| Hole number 1, Hathstauwk |
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| The old lunchroom |
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| The new lunchroom |
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| Enjoying a round of golf at Cap |
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| Hole 17, Sleeping Beauty |
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| My morning duty includes setting up the mowers so they can get out as quick as possible |
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Adventures in Irrigation
One thing I've noticed about golf courses is that every course's irrigation system is different. In many ways they are the same, but everyone runs into different problems as old technology is replaced by new technology. This often creates interesting combinations of equipment and very unique situations.
Capilano G&CC has by far the most unique irrigation system I have come across yet. There is no pumphouse. Instead, all the water comes from two lakes found on the mountain above the course. These lakes are fed by a stream that comes down from the mountain. There is enough pressure from gravity to provide enough pressure to run the irrigation system. Six pressure reducing valves on the course reduce the massive pressure that builds as the water is in the pipe. It is truly unique and the story of it's initial construction is as interesting as the rest of the history of the golf course.
This video was filmed as the irrigation technician and I went to open the line that allows water to flow from the mountain stream to the lakes below. After driving a fair way up the mountain and taking a hike through the forest, we finally arrived at our destination.
Capilano G&CC has by far the most unique irrigation system I have come across yet. There is no pumphouse. Instead, all the water comes from two lakes found on the mountain above the course. These lakes are fed by a stream that comes down from the mountain. There is enough pressure from gravity to provide enough pressure to run the irrigation system. Six pressure reducing valves on the course reduce the massive pressure that builds as the water is in the pipe. It is truly unique and the story of it's initial construction is as interesting as the rest of the history of the golf course.
This video was filmed as the irrigation technician and I went to open the line that allows water to flow from the mountain stream to the lakes below. After driving a fair way up the mountain and taking a hike through the forest, we finally arrived at our destination.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Course Aeration
Aerating is common practice for the majority of golf courses. Most of us do it once or twice every year. It is an essential cultural practice needed for the health of our turf. From Sunday, April 17th till Thursday, April 21st, I was involved in Capilano G&CC's course aeration. My previous experience with aeration has only been with tees, greens, and compacted areas. At Capilano, they do a whole course aeration, including greens, tees, rough, fairways, and surrounds, twice a year.
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| Aerating the rough on hole 1, Hathstauwk, at Capilano. |
There are several reasons they do this course wide. One reason is to relieve compaction which is a major issue on the course. Regular play and vehicles cause compaction in the soil. Compaction can come from other sources as well, such as rain, which is very common in Vancouver. Another reason is to aid in drainage. As mentioned before, rain is very common on the course. The sand put down into the soil profile through topdressing aids in drainage. The majority of the turf on the course is Annual Bluegrass (Poa annua). Poa is known to be very sensitive to stress. By relieving compaction, improving drainage, and improving plant growing conditions, we are aiding the plant by reducing those possible stresses.
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| Aerating the fairway after topdressing has been applied. |
The process of aeration was quite involved. For greens, approaches, and tees, plugs where pulled and collected via snow shovels. Cores from the approaches were picked up separately from greens plugs due to differences in turf variety. Greens were then blown off with backpack blowers to get rid of any remaining debris. A substance to flush sodium from the soil was then applied (this is what I was involved with). Topdressing was then applied, dragged in with a drag behind mat, and finally brushed. On fairways and rough, topdressing was applied before aeration. After they were punched, the fairways and rough would be dragged in. After greens aeration was finished, a crew was sent to cleanup the fairways and rough, dispersing piles of sand and debris left behind.
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| Removal of plugs from the playing surface. |
As mentioned before, my involvement for the first few days was the application of granular product to the greens after aeration. Before we applied we had to calibrate our equipment. I was glad to get to practice this skill that we had learned in school. After greens were completed, we applied gypsum to the surrounds on the course. It was a lot of work, but I was glad to be apart of it. Being my first full week, I was still learning the course and the day-to-day operations. This gave me a chance to learn the course and ask questions of my supervisors.
Aeration is always lots of work. It means long hours, early mornings, and late nights. However, I was glad to be apart of it. The operation was of a scale I had never seen before. I was able to learn much about planning for aeration and about the course.
Thanks to Michael Newton, Assistant Superintendent, for providing the photos.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Insect Collection
A part of the second year curriculum at Olds College is to create an insect collection. This is an extensive project that involved collecting insects throughout the summer. Once collected, the insects must be stored carefully until pinned. During the first semester of the year we were able to take those insects and identify them. This project complemented our entomology lectures. Our instructor, Ken Fry, taught our class the key pests that we will encounter in Canada. Along with this we focused on integrated pest management and effective strategies for managing pest problems on the golf course.
The majority of my insects were collected in Saskatoon, SK. They were caught either at home, at Greenbryre Golf & Country Club where I was employed, or at the University of Saskatchewan. One insect, the hornworm, was caught in Calgary by Daniel Davis. This project gave us a better understanding of those insects in our environment. Not all insects are pests, in fact very few are. It is important to remember that the whole ecosystem is connected. This collection demonstrates the diversity found in our very own back yards. The following picture is the completed collection and after there is a list of each bug with common and family names.
Phylum Odonata
1. Common Skimmer - Libellulidae
2. Darner - Aeshnidae
3. Darner - Aeshnidae
4. Narrow-Winged Damsalfly - Coenagrionidae
Phylum Orthoptera
1. Shorthorned Grasshopper - Acrididae
2. Shorthorned Grasshopper - Acrididae
Phylum Hemiptera
1. Assassin Bug - Reduviidae
2. Leafhopper - Cicadellidae
3. Leafhopper - Cicadellidae
4. Lacebug - Tingidae
5. Spittlebug - Cercopidae
6. Stinkbug - Pentatomidae
Phylum Neuroptera
1. Green Lacewing - Chrysopidae
Phylum Coleoptera
1. Leaf Beetle - Chrysomelidae
2. Leaf Beetle - Chrysomelidae
3. Predaceous Diving Beetle - Dytiscidae
4. Sap-Feeding Beetle - Nitidulidae
Phylum Diptera
1. Blow Fly - Calliphoridae
2. Blow Fly - Calliphoridae
3. Flower Fly - Syrphidae
4. Marsh Fly - Sciomyzidae
Phylum Lepidoptera
1. Brush Footed Butterfly - Nymphalidae
2. Hornworm - Sphingidae
Phylum Hymenoptera
1. Honey Bee - Apidae
2. Ant - Formicidae
3. Ant - Formicidae
4. Braconid Wasp - Braconidae
5. Honey Bee - Apidae
6. Leafcutting Bee - Megachilidae
7. True Wasp - Vespidae
The majority of my insects were collected in Saskatoon, SK. They were caught either at home, at Greenbryre Golf & Country Club where I was employed, or at the University of Saskatchewan. One insect, the hornworm, was caught in Calgary by Daniel Davis. This project gave us a better understanding of those insects in our environment. Not all insects are pests, in fact very few are. It is important to remember that the whole ecosystem is connected. This collection demonstrates the diversity found in our very own back yards. The following picture is the completed collection and after there is a list of each bug with common and family names.
Phylum Odonata
1. Common Skimmer - Libellulidae
2. Darner - Aeshnidae
3. Darner - Aeshnidae
4. Narrow-Winged Damsalfly - Coenagrionidae
Phylum Orthoptera
1. Shorthorned Grasshopper - Acrididae
2. Shorthorned Grasshopper - Acrididae
Phylum Hemiptera
1. Assassin Bug - Reduviidae
2. Leafhopper - Cicadellidae
3. Leafhopper - Cicadellidae
4. Lacebug - Tingidae
5. Spittlebug - Cercopidae
6. Stinkbug - Pentatomidae
Phylum Neuroptera
1. Green Lacewing - Chrysopidae
Phylum Coleoptera
1. Leaf Beetle - Chrysomelidae
2. Leaf Beetle - Chrysomelidae
3. Predaceous Diving Beetle - Dytiscidae
4. Sap-Feeding Beetle - Nitidulidae
Phylum Diptera
1. Blow Fly - Calliphoridae
2. Blow Fly - Calliphoridae
3. Flower Fly - Syrphidae
4. Marsh Fly - Sciomyzidae
Phylum Lepidoptera
1. Brush Footed Butterfly - Nymphalidae
2. Hornworm - Sphingidae
Phylum Hymenoptera
1. Honey Bee - Apidae
2. Ant - Formicidae
3. Ant - Formicidae
4. Braconid Wasp - Braconidae
5. Honey Bee - Apidae
6. Leafcutting Bee - Megachilidae
7. True Wasp - Vespidae
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Sandy Point Golf Course Design
As a part of our construciton and design course, our class had the opportunity to design and layout a 18-hole golf course. We were excited when we learned our designs would be done on an actual location where a golf course will be developed. The location is at Gull Lake in Alberta. There is currently a proposal to build a resort area, and the golf course is a major part of the project. The idea is to create a family friendly location for people to live or visit on vacation.
This project was not only fun, but also challenging. It took creativity and patience to design the course. Along the way our instructor, Jason Pick, taught us about design strategies and practices, both historical and modern. We took these ideas from lecture and put them into practice with our designs. The program we used for this was AutoCAD 2011. This allowed us to give a visual representation of our designs with relative ease and speed.
There were a couple design features I focused on in my design. I wanted to make sure that it was designed with a front and back nine. Since this is a resort course for the whole family, I wanted the course to have that flexibility in the ways it can be played. Another major design feature was the course routing. I wanted to ensure safety for the areas around the golf course. The last thing I would want is for golf balls to be flying into RV sites and the road. Since the majority of golf players hit to the right, the outside holes all go clockwise. This will reduce the amount of shots that may fly out of bounds.
The last part of the project was to create a presentation and deliver it to the our whole class as well as the developer of the development. Each student had the opportunity to walk through their design and receive input from our guest. I was pleased with my presentation and overall design, and it was well received. Click here to download the presentation.
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| Location for the Sandy Point Resort located on the west side of Gull Lake |
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| My completed 18-hole design |
The last part of the project was to create a presentation and deliver it to the our whole class as well as the developer of the development. Each student had the opportunity to walk through their design and receive input from our guest. I was pleased with my presentation and overall design, and it was well received. Click here to download the presentation.
New Job Position
As of this week I will be starting my new position at Capilano Golf and Country Club as the Intern. Capilano is located in West Vancouver and it's a club with a rich history. Designed by Stanley Thompson, the course overlooks downtown Vancouver and is renowned for it's natural beauty. I look forward to being able to post pictures of the course and the projects that I am involved in over the summer, and I am excited to be able to apply my education and learn more skills for my career in the turfgrass industry.
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