You can't manage what you don't measure is an old business adage that is certainly applicable to turfgrass management. Unless you measure something, you truly don't know if it is improving or declining. We use this approach in many areas on the golf course. We measure everything from green speed to soil moisture to soil firmness. Utilizing various meters, we gather data that is unbiased and free of emotion. We can then adjust our maintenance practices accordingly based on the data.
We have added a new tool to our arsenal this year, a TruFirm firmness meter. Based on technology developed by the USGA, the TruFirm meter offers a quick way to measure turf firmness. The meter utilizes a hemisphere-shaped impact hammer that mimics the shape of a golf ball and simulates golf ball impacts. The mass is dropped from a consistent height and the maximum turf penetration value is recorded and correlated to turf firmness. The lower the penetration value, the firmer the turf.
We are excited about this new tool. By measuring the relationship between the compaction of the soil and moisture level, we will be able to ensure healthy, aesthetically pleasing turf that offers exceptional firmness and playability.
The firmness meter will have multiple uses. We will not only be measuring green firmness, but will also be utilizing the meter in fairway landing areas and bunkers. The data collected will help us better manage the golf course. We will be able to fine-tune maintenance practices to target areas that need improvement. The overall results will be a faster, firmer golf course.
We have added a new tool to our arsenal this year, a TruFirm firmness meter. Based on technology developed by the USGA, the TruFirm meter offers a quick way to measure turf firmness. The meter utilizes a hemisphere-shaped impact hammer that mimics the shape of a golf ball and simulates golf ball impacts. The mass is dropped from a consistent height and the maximum turf penetration value is recorded and correlated to turf firmness. The lower the penetration value, the firmer the turf.
We are excited about this new tool. By measuring the relationship between the compaction of the soil and moisture level, we will be able to ensure healthy, aesthetically pleasing turf that offers exceptional firmness and playability.
The firmness meter will have multiple uses. We will not only be measuring green firmness, but will also be utilizing the meter in fairway landing areas and bunkers. The data collected will help us better manage the golf course. We will be able to fine-tune maintenance practices to target areas that need improvement. The overall results will be a faster, firmer golf course.