COURSE & TREE MANAGEMENT IN THE WINTER

BY LOU SILVEIRA GOLF COURSE SUPERINTENDENT

As the year winds down, we reflect on a productive and eventful 2024 on the course. December brings its own unique challenges and opportunities for the maintenance and improvement of our beautiful Club. Here are some updates and highlights to keep you informed:

Winter Course Maintenance

Winter is a critical time for course maintenance. The team is focused on:

• Wet Conditions: Persistent wet weather has created softer playing surfaces. We ask for your patience as we address drainage and limit cart traffic to preserve the turf.

• Frost Delays: With cooler mornings, frost delays may become more frequent. While we understand they can be inconvenient, protecting the grass from damage is our top priority. Walking on frost-covered grass can crush frozen leaf blades, causing long-lasting harm.

• Leaf Cleanup: The fall leaf drop is upon us. Our crews are working diligently to keep playing surfaces clear while also composting the collected material to enhance our sustainability efforts.

Tree Management

Over the past month, we have assessed the health and safety of our trees. A couple of hazard trees adjacent to the north parking lot have been identified for removal during the winter months, while others will undergo strategic pruning. These measures will not only enhance safety but also improve sunlight penetration and airflow, promoting healthier turf conditions.

Irrigation System Updates

Although we’re in the wetter season, irrigation remains an important focus. Repairs and upgrades to the irrigation system have been scheduled to ensure optimal water efficiency next year. This includes an audit of every sprinkler in the controllers and replacing aging sprinkler heads and testing the entire system for uniform water distribution.

Seasonal Projects

Our team is preparing for several offseason projects, including:

• Bunker Renovations: A few select bunkers are being overhauled to maintain adequate and consistent sand levels.

A Look Ahead to 2025

We’re already planning for the spring and summer seasons, including aeration schedules, fairway enhancements, and another round of fairway topdressing. Additionally, we’re exploring more eco-friendly maintenance practices to reduce our environmental footprint.

Your feedback is invaluable to us as we strive to maintain and enhance the course. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to me or any member of our agronomy team. Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we work to keep Woodbridge a premier golfing destination.

Wishing you and your families a joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year!