Weather Or Not!

Guest, August 1, 2012 | Posted in Park and Recreation

By Amy Smith, Clubhouse Manager

On a personal level, I am fond of the weather this summer; I’ll take 92 degrees over 12 degrees any day. It seems like it started early and it just keeps going!  However, from a work or golf course perspective it’s another story.

It all started well enough this year — the course opened early and the temperatures were pleasant. Nonetheless, Mother Nature can be fickle and July is proof of that! Through July 26, every day but one was above the average of 83 degrees. I read in Sunday’s Star Tribune (July 29) that the prediction is for 35 days above 90 degrees this summer compared to an average of 13!

This kind of temperature extremes can put a massive strain on the grass. The heat and humidity essentially kills the grass, with fungal diseases being a primary culprit. Other factors that can determine the extent of turf damage include the wind direction, nighttime temperatures, type of soil and turf grass species. What’s problematic in one area of the golf course may be less so in others based on some of the above factors.

The grounds crew is challenged in how to respond. Contributing challenges for staff include limited resources like time, finances and water. Quite honestly, any effort will likely be short-lived when the temperatures continue to exceed the norms. The grass will continue to be challenged until the weather changes.

The cooler, shorter days of fall will inevitably rejuvenate the grass and for the golf course and that will be a good thing!