Monday, March 25, 2013

Waiting Game

 We're all tired of snow and are looking forward to warmer weather.  If  hard work and determination could usher in Spring, we would be basking in warm sunlight today.  We were able to pull off the green covers last week despite heavy snow and ice accumulations on several of the covers.  We were glad to get this task accomplished with more snow arriving this weekend.  Having the covers off doesn't mean that the golf course will be open when the snow melts.  It may have; however, brought us a day closer to opening once the golf course thaws out and drys up.  At this point, it will likely be some time in April before the course opens.

Crews shoveled ice and snow all day on Friday.  #11 had the heaviest accumulation.  (This is the east side of 11 green.)

Layers of packed snow and ice made shoveling difficult.

#7 had some of the deepest snow on the cover in the bunker.

Ice picks and sledge hammers were used to break the ice on #8.

The final push on the west side of #11.  Everyone got in on the shoveling to get the final cover off before the weekend.

Friday, March 8, 2013

2013 - The Beginning

We're fresh off the first green committee meeting for 2013 and are being asked the age- old question: "When will the golf course be open?"  Rather than bore you with agronomic jargon, I feel compelled to assure our members that we are just as anxious as you are to get out there.  Your enthusiasm for the game and excitement for the 2013 season is contagious.  With several inches of snow still on the ground and the Principal Charity Classic just 84 days away, we are absolutely itching to get outside. 

Simply put, the course will be opened when it is ready.  We've obviously have to get rid of the snow and allow the ground to thaw and firm up.  When conditions are right, it will not take us long to open. 

For us, this is the calm before the storm.  Once we crack the seal on the 2013 season, we will likely be working long hours in preparation for the tournament.  We will keep you updated on opening day, ongoing projects, and progress made throughout this spring.