Martins Musings- When to Close the Golf Course

We are going to publish periodically pieces from Martin Lipsett, our course superintendent, with the objective of giving reasons for various decisions taken by course staff . The first in our ocassional series is entitled :

 When to Close the Golf Course  by Martin Lipsett

Closing the golf course is one of the most difficult and controversial decisions faced by the course staff , as it adversely affects cash flow and creates dissention among members.

The main reason for closing the golf course is adverse weather conditions. Many factors influence the  decision. Since most of these call for personal judgement , the decision is seldom left undisputed, mainly because the reasons are not clearly understood. Even though judgement is involved, the decision is based on all the facts, with the best long term interests of the of both the members and the golf course being the main drivers.

Properly trained course staff, are capable of giving expert professional advice on the subject, and also have the capability to recognise the factors that influence the future well being of the turf and its playability, which may or may be understood by the members.

Winter Play: 

Turfgrass damage from traffic stress may occur when there is frost on the ground especially on putting greens.In simple terms the traffic pressure exerted  on a single blade of grass when frozen can cause the leaf to die.Also the damage occurs at a time of year when the grass plants are dormant and recovery is unlikely. However in most cases it is just a simple matter to close the course until the normal rise in temperature has melted the surface frost.

There is a second winter condition that justifies the course, but is difficult for members to understand. It is when the ground becomes frozen. The problem is when daytime surface thawing of the turf begins, the golfers foot traffic causes the grass roots to be sheared at the crown of the plant between the lower frozen soil and the soft thawing turf. For this reason it is better to keep the golf course closed for the day, especially if daytime thawing is anticipated.

The Decision:

The goal of good golf course maintenance is to have the course open and in optimum playing conditions at all feasible times. any decision that necessitates closing the course is made carefully, using sound reasoning. The potential damage, both immediate and long term of allowing play is weighed very carefully against monetary losses and members disatisfactions if the course is to be closed. The decision is not easy to make but as course superintendent the judgement is based on sound agronomic knowledge and experience.