We are all aware of how often it has been raining but the total is telling with the annual total looking might it may reach 1000mm or close to 40 inches. Not as high as either 2012 or 2014 which both went above 1000mm but the difference for us this year is that we have received a substantial proportion in the later part of the year when evaporation and plant use are at their lowest.
The totals are at 19 December so with 12 more days until the new year and forecasts looking at regular rain until then I am confident we will hit four figures.
Taking a positive perspective on the situation, following two quite dry and also quite warm summers the current situation will give ground water an opportunity to be replenished and give all of the land managers out there more of a buffer if (when) the weather turns dry in the future.
As expected is all I need to say, but please note that as of late December we have implemented winter wheels policy for both pull trolleys and power caddies as we have in previous years, please take note as this policy is in place to minimise damage to the course and thus give us the opportunity to remain in play for longer.
Raking bunkers has been a huge job for the team over the winter. The sand is heavy and often the rain falls a short time after our regular raking. Everyone on the team is doing their best to ensure these hazards remain in play but we are playing catch-up constantly.
Both tee improvements on 2nd and 6th have been turfed and are growing in well for the coming spring. Minimising traffic to these areas will aid their establishment and ensure that they are in play as soon as possible.
Bunker renovation on 1st fairway, 4th greenside, 7th fairway and 9th fairway in complete having edge rebuilds along the most trafficked edges. Work on the 6th greenside bunker has been postponed until we have more access to the site. Taking machinery to this part of the course will cause significant damage and as such we will recommence work here in the new year.
We have introduced some low impact signage to encourage pitch mark repairs, do keep an eye out for the signs. We are hoping that a gentle reminder will trigger the instinct of etiquette.
Thank you for the year past, it has been great with challenges overcome, fantastic events and allegiances formed in the golfing world. We will be moving forward again, improving and striving to keep building on our fantastic facility in the new year, exciting stuff!
Happy Christmas and best wishes from the team and myself.
Best always
Jaey Goodchild
Head Greenkeeper
