As I sit and write this update, it looks like we are nearing the end of our rainfall season. Following are the totals per month to date:
- September – .26”
- October – .76”
- November – 3.55”
- December – 6.27”
- January – 12.14”
- February – 8.24”
- March – 6.25”
- April to date – .96”
That brings our season total to 38.43″ which is a few inches over our annual average. Hopefully the deep ground aquifers recovered more than they did last year. Last year we received some rainfall in the first week of May, so it would be nice to see the same result this year.
As you know by now, we performed our spring green aeration procedure to reduce organic levels in the top 3 inches of the soil profile. Along with the greens, we have finished the aeration at the driving range, all tees, and 1 – 8 fairways. Next week, we will finish the fairways. Once the fairways are completed, we will begin aerating the rough.
Another project that was completed recently was the replacement of approximately 2000 square feet of cart paths. This work was completed at holes 3,5,6,13,15, and 16 repairing areas that were damaged or removed to facilitate drainage infrastructure during the bunker renovation.
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We recently did a quarterly check of the sand depths in the bunkers. Over time, mother nature, and raking procedures move the sand around so it is a necessary procedure for them to perform properly.
Hopefully everyone is enjoying the spring weather and getting out to play some golf.
Yours in turf,
Stacy L. Wallace, Golf Course Superintendent
Sonoma Agronomy 