Full Version of Course Update Letter

2016 Course Update

With spring right around the corner, the phones will start ringing with anticipation of when the course will open. I would like to take this time to update you and summarize my decisions and actions that were taken this winter so we could provide you with the best possible conditioned course during the season. 

After last winter, many discussions were had and proactive decisions were made on what has to be done to protect the course so it’s playable come spring.  The answer, cover the greens.  Not only is this a big financial investment, but one that impacts possible golf during the winter months.  Temporary pins were cut in approaches (9 holes) to eliminate completely shutting down and served as a compromise to satisfy the golfers who wanted to get out when the opportunity arose.

There are several reasons why we covered greens at Field Club. 

1.   The first being to protect the turf from cold, dry winter winds, which can desiccate turf, causing injury.

2.   The second is to help alleviate the formation of ice on the putting surface.

3.   To eliminate any foot traffic on the greens while they are frozen.

Identifying the turf species at your club is usually the deciding factor when making a cover/no cover decision.  The most susceptible turf species to injury is Poa annua (the primary species at FCO).  Poa is a much weaker plant than bentgrass, and this goes for the winter as much as it does for summer.  As you have seen, leaving Poa annua uncovered during winter is a very risky endeavor, as Poa does not have the same ability as bentgrass to harden itself off for winter.  When the cold winds combine with no snow cover it can quickly and easily desiccate and damage the plant.  Poa is only able to survive at most, 30-60 days under ice cover.  In Omaha, we often see the prime weather conditions for damage, which is why this was the right decision for us to make.  Covers are the best insurance against winter injury although nothing is guaranteed.  

Over the last week, I have been able to walk the course several times and even pulled back some covers to inspect the turf.  So far, the course has gone through winter with very minimal issues and the greens have great color and appear to be very healthy.  I anticipate no changes from here on out and expect us to not only have a great spring, but a great year of golf. 

The plan (if forecasted weather patterns do not change) Monday, March 7th we will begin removing the covers and preparing the greens for play.  I anticipate by Wednesday, March 9^th at noon the greens will have been mowed, fresh cups cut and ready for golf.

If there are any questions on this decision (or anything moving forward), please direct them to me.  The best way to reach me is via email at nleu@fcomaha.net.  I also utilize a turf blog which serves as general course updates to the membership.  You can view the blog at: fieldclubturf.blogspot.com.

Thank you for your support and I look forward to another great season at FCO.

Regards,

Nick Leu