Reel to Reel

With January coming to an end, we saw our share of sporadic weather.  Frigid weather, rain and record amounts of snow kept it interesting.  January snow accumulations totaled 39.1".  This total was well above the 12.5" average snowfall accumulation for the month of January. The snow accumulation for January makes it the snowiest month ever for metro Detroit.  The previous record occurred in February 1904 with snow accumulations totaling 38.5". We continue to evaluate and inspect the turf on a consistent basis.  The turf appears in good shape, however rain during mid December and January have created some ice conditions underneath the snow.  Most of the ice is porous in nature, which is good because it is still allowing some oxygen to get to the plants. ice pulled from  #2 green contains a significant amount of air pores As always, when  and how fast the snow melts is our biggest concern.  The worst ca...

Another blast of cold weather this week had us inside working on equipment.  The winter months allow us time to work on our fleet to ensure everything is in pristine operating condition for the golf season. Mike, our equipment manager, takes a proactive approach to our winter maintenance program.  Each piece of equipment has a work order generated during the winter, which includes a list of 20-30 items that need to be inspected, lubricated, adjusted, repaired or replaced.  With over 120 pieces of equipment in the fleet, we have plenty of work to keep us busy during the winter. David checking wheel bearings on a trim mower air filter replacement and engine inspection on a rough mower replacing a worn belt on a rough mower greens mowers receiving some tender loving care Mike sharpening a mower reel  

Cooperation from Mother Nature allowed us to get back outside this week.  Our focus has been concentrated on pruning the Norway Spruce on the property.  Elevating these branches will allow for easier approach shots into the greens, as well as, a cleaner presentation.  Myles pruning a Norway Spruce on  #14  

Perspective is a wonderful thing.  You know the weather has been cold when today's 6 degree wind chill feels warm compared to yesterday.  Below is a photo I took yesterday of the weather station display in my office (-53 wind chill).   In an unrelated matter, I took this photo this afternoon of a duck sitting by himself in our parking lot.  interesting and strange  

...if you like snow and bitter cold temperatures.  The golf course remains under 12"-17" of snow after this weekend's accumulation.  It looks picturesque, however the deep snow makes it pretty tough to maneuver. Norway Spruce #5 snow accumulation behind #2 green    

I wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year.  I'm excited about the 2014 golf season.  Even though the golf course is covered with 8" of snow, I know the season will be here before we know it.