As we make the turn to the last week of July we are beginning to see the lack of rain fall show across the property. While the forecast is for some rain this week the poa and unirrigated areas of the property are struggling to retain health. The Turfcare team has been busy hand watering, applying additional water and setting up extra roller basin sprinklers to assist in managing these areas. At this point the water we apply is not enough and we are in need of a few good soakers. With this, traffic and travel patterns begin to show. We ask that you keep you cart to paths where possible and do your best to travel in areas of fairways where we are irrigated.
The 5th green is ready to return to the 18 hole rotation here at Niakwa just 81 days after seeding. As has been the case in the past there are expectations that need to be managed and etiquette that needs to be at the forefront to ensure the success of this green while in play. Ball marks have to be repaired. This is non-negotiable. If you see one fix one! Rickshaws and walking traffic must stay to the rough and cart paths. No taking pull carts over the collar of this green site. At times there will be enter and exit traffic control posts. If you see these around the green do not enter the green site from that location. From an expectation stand point this green is rolling well and has been in the range expected. At times it may not match up with the other greens on course. This can be expected for the remainder of this season and into the start of next season. There are some areas of weakness where the green meets the collar. This is normal and will be visible as you play. This will continue to establish and will not be detrimental. As the case has been in the past with new greens, we will balance playability and plant health to the best of our abilities.
Over the past 7 seasons we have now replaced 8 of the poa greens on the property. 7 of those greens opened within a window of 75-90 days and have had no long term negative impacts. As has been the case with all those opened in the past, the 5th green being back in play will provide the majority of the membership with the satisfaction of playing their true 18 holes of golf. From an agronomic stand point we are confident this green can support golf with smart management strategies and will have no long term negative effects on the success of this green. We would like to thank the membership for its continued support and patience while we established the newest green here at Niakwa and we hope you enjoy the new 5th!
Respectfully,
Shawn Major, AGS