July 14, 2022

As I write this update, we are in the middle of our summer season, which means we have not received any substantial rainfall in most part since April and will not likely see any rain until mid-October if we have a normal fall. In this update, I will discuss irrigation infrastructure and water quality. Golf course irrigation systems are a supplement to Mother Nature’s rainfall. The best designed systems are not capable of matching rainfall’s efficiency and/or water quality. Here in Northern California, we are in a Mediterranean climate where we do not see rainfall from mid-May to mid-October, so irrigation infrastructure and water quality affect the golf course substantially through these summer months.

As far as infrastructure goes, the pipe, valves, and partial wiring in the ground are 34 years old. The electronic controls, heads, and the remainder of the wiring are 19 years old. It is definitely time for some upgrades and possible replacement. One of the commitments from ownership is to bring out the golf course architect to assess the property and develop a Master Plan and to hire an irrigation consultant to do a complete irrigation infrastructure audit to develop a plan moving forward.

Another part of the equation is we rely on well water for our water source during the summer months. Our well water has high levels of Bicarbonates, Sodium, Chloride, and Boron. This is challenging due to the salt concentration levels. A lot of the wilt you see in the afternoon on this property is salt related. A good example of what salts do to the plant is having a glass of iced tea on a napkin and the napkin sticks to the bottom of the glass when you lift it up. Pour some salt on the napkin, which absorbs the moisture, and the napkin will not stick to the glass. The same thing is happening in the soil environment creating a situation where you get salt induced afternoon wilt, especially on warm days. The quality of the water from the underground aquifers is also affected by the drought we are having. As water levels decrease, so does quality. Hopefully this provides some insight regarding our irrigation infrastructure.

Please let me know if there are any items you would like me to discuss in the blogs moving forward.

Yours in turf,

Stacy L. Wallace, Golf Course Superintendent