As the supposed winter begins we are slowly getting into our off-season practices. Our team will be cutting new cups every 100 rounds or so as well as raking bunkers and moving tee markers. We have filled the ball washers with windshield washer fluid so they will not freeze and crack. When the forecast begins to show cold weather really settling in, we will pull the washers and tee markers from the course for reconditioning this winter. During the days that we have had below freezing weather, Manuel and Mario have been detailing our equipment and making them shine like new. These two guys also are the ones who put up the clubhouse Christmas lights which look spectacular.
Grant has begun to remove some of the dead trees from around the course. He cut 4 down just past the bridge on #14. The next area we will get to will probably be behind #11 green, where 4 more trees will be removed in order to allow morning sunlight to hit the green. I will have to rent a splitter, but my plan is to split all the tree trunks for firewood which I will sell for $50 a truck load once I get a supply built up. If you are interested check with me later this winter.
While he has been busy with that, I have been locating greens drain lines to make sure they are working properly. I have been surprised so far, and most of the main trunk lines have been clear and working well. That is, except for #11. The drain line for this green runs into the woods on the left side and was actually crushed back into the ground not allowing water or air to escape. Turns out that was a great place for a squirrel to hide it's stash of nuts haha.
The last 8 feet of this drain line was packed with mud, acorns, and walnuts. I cut this piece off and now the green will be able to drain and breath which I am very excited about.
I have also used our skid steer to push all the piled up brush behind #12 green down the hill. This has left a not so beautiful view as all the vegetation was stripped off in the process, but I assure you that the native grass will re-establish itself in the spring and if it doesn't, I will seed it.
That is about all I have for this month so please have a safe and pleasant holiday season, and keep taking advantage of the 60 degree days when they pop up.
