Whats happening at 11?

The hillside above the 11th green has deteriorated over the years.  The trees have health issues and the azaleas are contaminated by weeds, vines and disease.  In addition, the slopes are very severe which coupled with the density of the growth, has become almost impossible to combat the problems.  We are taking this winter to remove the dead and dying shrubs and trees, relocate some of the healthy specimens, and start the long process of revitalizing the area.

The picture below shows what you may see next time you visit.

We have drawn up what we would like to create.  This process will take some time and be performed in stages.  The amount of invasive species will requires us to keep the area relatively bare this season while we eradicate the problems.  We hope to plant several new trees this spring, but wait on most of the shrubs and flowers until fall once a summer of clearing has helped prepare the area for planting.  This is a very challenging spot to not only keep nice, but even to grade and clear the area is proving to be difficult as well.  We have high hopes this areas can provide a nice backdrop to the hole once finished and allow some nice views of the large white oak (Kirchner Tree) at 14 tee as well.

As we search for the elusive methods to improve the playing conditions, we will always move forward with small improvements projects that enhance the playing experience.

Priceless

Our course has some of the best vistas anywhere, as the commercial goes...  Priceless, but all things have a cost so, I thought I would list a few of the items we use every year.

22,000,000   The number of gallons of water we use during the year

30,000          The square feet of sod we installed last year

600               The tons of sand we used on the course for topdressing and bunkers

10,000          Gallons of fuel consumed in maintaining the course

6,000            Pounds of seed put in to the ground

300              gallons of oil changed for fleet maintenance

45                number of flags lost due to vandalism

200              feet of chain for the chainsaws

300              the average number of steps a foursome takes on every green

365              the number of days spent worrying about the course!


Enjoy the new year and everyone have a great golf season......



In later posts I will begin a several part series on our greens;  the history, construction and challenges we face.   This primer may help some have a better understanding of the costliest and most critical aspect of the course.