Fairway and Rough Soils


Golf courses built within and on mountain settings provide variables that impact playability that not many golfers consider when evaluating conditioning.  These variables cannot be seen so it is unlikely that they would be factored in by the uneducated eye.  In all of my years of experience in the golf business, I can tell you that a cost saving measure implemented by the developer, project manager, or builder early on will likely be paid ten fold by the new owner, new developer, and current and future Superintendent.

In a typical construction, the project documents would call for stripping/harvesting, stockpiling, and then re-distribution of topsoil across approved, graded golf features.  In some instances, sand capping is recommended.  That process would include importing 6"-10" of sand and "capping" the sub-grade to provide adequate drainage and an expectable growing medium for turf.  This is typical of sites with poorly draining soils and/or sites with minimal top soil.  Course design and soil percolation (infiltration rate/drainage) are critical elements to the present and future playability of a course. 

A common comment/complaint regarding Champions Club playability is related to course moisture levels.  We are constantly evaluating irrigation application rates (utilizing several forms of technology) and implementing cultural practices (venting, slicing, and tining) to improve playability.  I think it is important for those interested in knowing what sort of soil medium we are functioning on.  The photos below will give you an idea of the lack of topsoil, hard pan/compact soil that resides below 95% of the turfgrass.  Irrigation infiltration rates are extremely low and sheeting of water just below the sod surface is very typical.  We will continue to observe irrigation practices, install drainage, and mechanically fracture the soil to improve playability.  Please understand this is a lengthy process and will yield results over the long haul. 





   

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