September 2017

This picture did not turn out very clear, but the small brown spots you see in a few of our fairways are actually worm casting debris.  Worm activity is more noticeable during the spring and fall as they come to the surface during the evening hours.  Then, in the mornings, we see small mounds of debris from where they burrowed their holes.  Hose dragging and frequent mowing help to some extent, but if there is too much activity chemical control may be warranted.  The debris can actually dull the cut on our reels and bedknives over time.   


Cultural practices are performed more frequently during the fall as well.  Topdressing, aerification, verticutting, and grooming are all beneficial and each practice improves plant health and playability in their own unique way.  Here are two pictures of some material that has been brought to the surface of a putting green via verticutting.  This practice done consistently helps to keep organic matter to a minimum while also providing a channel to incorporate topdressing material and improve drainage.




We have laid some sod at the end of #8 fairway back in August in a couple areas where our seed did not fill in as well as we had hoped.  The sod is now all knitted in and looking good.





On Monday, September 11th, we were able to have our friends from Blanchard Valley over for a cookout with our staff.  This is our way of thanking them for helping us plant annuals in the spring time.  They absolutely love coming to FCC and have built relationships over the past few years with individuals on our staff.


There are always beautiful views on every part of our course and here are a few from the past couple weeks.




With all of the events and busy weeks we have had this month, it is nice to have some extra help when I come back in the evenings.  Kendyll loves to ride on a cart, but going over the bridges on #8 and #9 are by far her favorite!  





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