Greenkeeper InternatIonal GI DeCember 2010

Inside...

The ulTImaTe featured Turf managemenT fairhaven exhIbITIon In euroPe Your guide to the annual golf Club 5-day event, returning to ThIs monTh’s harrogate this January Course feaTure

Graduation Day Three beneficiaries of this year’s BIGGA Higher Education Scholarship Scheme write for us xx_gk_aug_West Country:golf_feb_folio_ 14/7/10 14:59 Page 1

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President Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE

Board of Management Chairman – Paul Worster Vice Chairman Andrew Mellon Past Chairman Peter Todd

Board Members Chris Sealey, Gary Cunningham, Archie Dunn, Ian Willett, Tony Smith, Elliott Small, Mark Dobell

Chief Executive John Pemberton [email protected]

Head of Learning & Development Sami Collins [email protected]

Head of Membership Department Tracey Maddison [email protected]

Contact Us BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF [email protected] www.bigga.org.uk Tel – 01347 833800 | Fax – 01347 833801

Greenkeeper International

The official monthly magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited.

Editorial Communications Manager / Editor Credit, where it is due Scott MacCallum Tel – 01347 833800 Fax – 01347 833801 [email protected]

Design I happened to watch a bit of the England which were so quick to jump on the story when v France game on the telly last night. To it was a negative one. Design and Production Editor be honest I was still basking in the glory It comes back to the adage that “No news Tom Campbell of Scotland’s triumph over the Faroes the is good news”, but it is a bit galling for all Tel – 01347 833800 previous night, but I tuned in anyway to concerned that they come in for a pasting when Fax – 01347 833801 [email protected] see if the Auld Enemy could match our the news is bad and very little in achievement. terms of positive comment when they have Advertising Just before the start the commentator turned something around and done a superb Sales Executive threw in the comment that there were now no job. Kirstin Black issues with the Wembley pitch and that it had It is exactly the same with golf courses. Tel – 01347 833800 The spike bars are full of people pontificating Fax – 01347 833802 even coped with an American football match [email protected] recently. on what they perceive to be wrong, but the I didn’t watch the entire match, but numbers who will seek out the staff and Sales Executive that as the only comment I heard about the congratulate them when have just enjoyed a Jill Rodham pitch. superbly presented and maintained course are Tel – 01347 833800 Now go back a few months and you would very much fewer. Fax – 01347 833802 [email protected] have thought the poor playing surface was a I can’t let this column pass without saying national tragedy. something about BIGGA’s much loved Chief There was much hand wringing, opinion - of Executive, John Pemberton, who has decided

Printing varying degrees of expertise - was being freely to move on. Warners Midlands Plc, The Maltings, Manor spouted on every media outlet under the sun. Life at BIGGA will not be the same when he Lane, Bourne, Lincolnshire PE10 9PH Tel – 01778 391000 | Fax – 01778 394269 This ranged from gardeners and agronomists finally walks out of the door for the last time to players, managers and commentators all of next April. Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. Return whom had something valuable to offer on the John still has a few miles left on the clock and postage must accompany all materials submitted I’m sure he will use them wisely. I also know if return is requested. No responsibility can be matter. assumed for unsolicited materials. The right is The idea that the state of the pitch might that it will enable him to spend more time with reserved to edit submissions before publication. Although every care will be taken, no influence England’s 2018 World Cup bid his lovely wife, Judith, and, dare I say it, on responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, ramped up the anxiety even more. the fairways, and, no doubt, in the rough, of photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Association, Indeed the column inches on the subject Fulford Golf Club. and no responsibility is accepted for such could have covered the playing area at Wembley Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to content, advertising or product information that may appear. Circulation is by subscription. several times over. you all. Subscription rate: UK £50 per year, Europe and The new Desso Grassmaster pitch laid earlier Eire £65, Rest of the World £95. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, this year has obviously made a huge difference, Scott MacCallum local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and central government. but progress would not have been made Editor without a great deal of planning, thought and sheer hard work by recognised experts in pitch maintenance. It is a success story but one which elicited no more than a throw away line from a match commentator and, unless I’ve missed it, very Scott MacCallum ISSN: 0961– 6977 © 2010 British and International Golf little comment in the same press and media Editor Greenkeepers Association Limited

DECEMBER 2010 GI 3 ContentS GI a look at what’s inside the magazine this month

FEATURECOURSE FEATURE FEATURE December 2010 18

FEATURES

18 An environmental haven Scott MacCallum visits Fairhaven Golf Club and meets a man whose enthusiasm for this An job knows no bounds. Fairhaven Golf Club, in begin to move forward profession- essential course management work Lytham St Annes, is one of the ally until about fi ve years ago, ironi- has been carry out – is quite awe fi nest tests of golf in an area cally, when the club fi rst entered inspiring. which is renowned for quality the Golf Environment competition. “Basically I started to improve environmental courses. With its unusual tree “Peter knew I was interested in my knowledge base by keeping in lined but links characteristics the environment and asked me touch with the guys at the STRI and it is very much one of a kind, to go round the course with Bob but nowadays it is forging Taylor and Kelly Harman, of the 25 Thanks! an equally strong reputation STRI, as they assessed the course,” for its environmental recalled James. stewardship. “I spent a couple of days with haven Peter Simpson is Course Manager them but was embarrassed that Three BIGGA Higher but credit for much of the work that when they asked me questions I has been carried out on encourag- didn’t know any of the answers. I Scott MacCallum travelled ing ecology on the course must go to felt completely out of my depth. his Assistant and Eco Co-ordinator, “I decided there and then that if Education Scholarship Scheme to the north west coast to James Hutchinson, whose infec- I wanted to progress in greenkeep- meet a man who is seeing tious enthusiasm has galvanised ing, and ultimately get a course of the entire club and seen him named my own, I’d have to do something Graduates talk about their some real rewards for his as the Conservation Greenkeeper of about it.” hard work the Year, as well as him closing in That was very much the catalyst on a Sports Turf Science Degree, at and to say that James has upped careers and how they have Myerscough College. his game since would be very much But it was not always so and while an understatement and the work James was always a conscientious that has been done on the course benefited from Ransomes and dedicated worker, he didn’t – mostly in spare time after the

GI GI Jacobsen funding. 18 DECEMBER 2010 DECEMBER 2010 19

31 Turf War for invasive root Nematodes Hilary Knght talks with Dr Colin Fleming, the world’s leading authority on Nematodes.

36 Grow wild on the golf course Linda Laxton offers a guide to planting wild flowers.

39 Harrogate Preview What to expect and what to 25 31 look out for next January.

49 Preventing winter green damage Jim Cook reports from Norway The ultimate on how greens are protected from damage. turf management 52 Take a fresh look exhibition in Europe Your guide to the annual 5-day event returning at the problem of to the Harrogate International Centre this January Harrogate International Centre worm casts on turf 16-20 JANUARY 2011 North Yorkshire, HG1 5LA (UK) Graham Paul looks at the on-going problem and gives you the opportunity to earn two BASIS points. 36 39

Education 16-20 January 2010 Exhibition 18-20 January 2010 4 GI DECEMBER 2010

Supported by:

GI 49

REGULARS GREENKEEPER GI INTERNATIONAL 6 Newsdesk DECEMBER 2010

13 Chairman’s Word Inside... 14 GTC THE ULTIMATE TURF MANAGEMENT Featured 15 Learning and EXHIBITION IN EUROPE Fairhaven Your guide to the annual Golf Club Development 5-day event, returning to Harrogate this January THIS MONTH’S 16 Industry Update COURSE FEATURE 17 What’s Your 52 Number – Richard Campey 56 Letters 57 Dealer of the Month 60 Around the Green Graduation Day 63 Assistant Profile Three benefi ciaries of this year’s BIGGA Higher 67 Chief Executive Education Scholarship Scheme write for us 68 Membership 69 Diary of Events 70 In the Shed The official monthly magazine of 82 Soapbox the British and International Golf – Sean Sullivan Greenkeepers Association Limited 16

DECEMBER 2010 GI 5 neWSdeSk GI The latest news from around the globe

greenkeeping is an art Artists, Ackroyd and Harvey, have colour, even throughout the winter. been creating breath-taking works It’s this particular quality that of art using British Seed Houses allows the artists to achieve such A26 So-Green mixture. contrast and definition in their The award-winning duo has work.” been creating masterpieces by It was the simple act of leaning utilising the light sensitivity of a ladder against a living, light- chlorophyll in individual blades of sensitive surface that was to first grass to create ‘sketch like’ images. arouse the idea of actually using They do this by projecting a large the green pigment of chlorophyll to scale negative onto a canvas of make extraordinary photographic grass as it grows. images in grass. ten up for Brad Richard Brown, of British Heather Ackroyd and Dan Seed Houses, commented, “We Harvey recently returned from BIGGA’s Membership Services Assistant, Brad have been working with Ackroyd Llubljana, Slovenia, where they Anderson, has recently celebrated 10 years service with and Harvey for a while now, exhibited their piece ‘On the Field’ the Association. and realised early on that A26 (pictured) at the 2010 Arts Festival Brad was just 17 when he started as one of the two So-Green was the perfect mixture in the city. Receptionists in the then recently opened BIGGA for what they wanted. It contains The piece is an excellent example HOUSE and he moved to the Membership Department our naturally occurring AberNile of the light manipulation technique in 2007. perennial ryegrass which has the they use to change the colour of the His indepth knowledge of computers and technology ability to maintain a dark green grass during growth. has also been of great benefit to the Association in terms of technical support to the rest of the staff and was responsible for him picking up the nickname, “Bradget.” Brad became the fifth current member of Headquarter neWSdeSk staff to reach the 10 year milestone and he received a GI email [email protected] with your news items and press releases digital camera to mark the occasion.

6 GI DECEMBER 2010 BIGGA Chief Executive to Leave

The BIGGA Board is sad to announce that after 17 years of service its Chief Executive, John Pemberton, has given notice of his intention to move on. John first joined the Association in March 1993 as its Accountant, moving up to take the reins as Chief Executive in March 2004. “The BIGGA Board of Directors wishes to thank John for his leadership and dedication to the job over the years which has resulted in Royal Arrival on Saville Row BIGGA significantly increasing ‘Savile Row Field Day’ saw Prince of Wales and was during the night so we started in size, profile and industry the world’s most prestigious organised to publicise the at 11pm and worked through positioning” commented tailoring location closed to benefits of wool clothing. until 5 in the morning,” says Chairman, Paul Worster. traffic as dozens of sheep It attracted visitors and Inturf Joint Managing Director John will continue in his grazed in a specially laid buyers from around the Alex Edwards. current position until the end of pasture created by world – as well as considerable “As befits a project for Savile April 2011 and will be helping Inturf. publicity in the national Row the turf was a tailor-made the Board with the recruitment The event took place under press. mixture of grasses including of a suitable successor. the patronage of HRH The “The turf had to be laid sheep fescue!”

WatSave 2010 Technology Facing Facebook Award from the ICID

Talking Twitter Dr Keith Weatherhead and Dr Jerry Knox, of the Cranfield University’s Centre for Water Science, together with UK Irrigation Association Executive Secretary Melvyn Kay, have won the Justin Ruiz, CGCS, has members/customers that prestigious WatSave 2010 Technology Award from the International been honoured with the social media can provide. Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) for their research and 2010 GCSAA Leo Feser The Leo Feser Award promotion of on-farm reservoirs in the UK. Award for his article, is presented annually for The annual ICID WatSave Awards recognise outstanding “Facing Facebook, talking the best Superintendent- contributions to water conservation or water saving across the Twitter, which appeared written article published world. in the June 2010 issue of in GCM. The award The winning project, proposed and funded by the Environment Golf Course Management winner is selected by Agency, promotes the use of on-farm reservoirs to store surplus magazine. members of GCSAA’s winter water for use in drier summers. This helps protect the Justin is the GCSAA Strategic environment and conserves water for existing users. certified Superintendent Communications The judges noted that though this was not a new technology, “its at The Rim Golf Club in Committee. Ruiz, a application here, by water professionals campaigning for farmers Payson, Arizona. 12-year GCSAA member, to invest in storage on their own land was worthy of award. The His article focused will receive the award construction of on-farm reservoirs [in the UK] has provided the on the communication at the 2011 GCSAA water security essential to achieve timely production of high quality advantages with golfers/ Education Conference. food that reduces water wastage from field to plate.”

DECEMBER 2010 GI 7 GI neWSdeSk

SaleS and MarketInG Man In at kuBota kubota has appointed david Blackwood as Sales and Marketing Manager for its tractor & Groundcare division. david brings with him a wealth of experience in the agricultural equipment industry, having spent the last 18 years in various technical and commercial roles for aGCo, formerly Massey ferguson. In previous roles Deere seen at the Zoo he headed the group’s sales and If you could talk to the animals at of grass before the zoo opens to zoo. “The Gator does just about marketing operations Chester Zoo, they’d probably say the public at 10am, and it saves everything we ask of it, and is also in the far east but how good the lawns and paddocks us a lot of time. One man can cut a real help in getting various jobs will now be operating look after their John Deere it all in a couple of hours, even done in time before the zoo opens somewhat closer machines have been at work. including the car parks when each day,” says Mark. to home, creating The zoo currently runs a Z425 necessary. Andy McKenzie is a specialist and implementing zero-turn mower, a TS Gator “It’s light and extremely keeper in the zoo’s popular kubota tractor & utility vehicle and a 2720 compact manoeuvrable, especially when elephant house, which is the Groundcare’s sales tractor, all supplied by local John cutting around our newly base for a John Deere 2720 29hp and marketing Deere dealer Turner Groundscare established borders and flower compact tractor equipped with a strategies in of Tarvin, Chester. Horticulture beds, and we can even use it front loader and bucket. northern europe, & botany team leader Mark in wet grass with no problems. “We use the tractor all day working with dealers Hargreaves chose the new compact The mower deck also features a every day for general shifting and in the uk, Ireland, zero-turn mower after a visit to the mulching kit that allows us to cut materials handling work. As well the Baltic and IOG Saltex event in 2009, where and drop, which saves us 25 per as cleaning out and reshaping the Scandinavia. he looked at about 10 different cent on fertilisers throughout the sand on the floor in the elephant In particular he will machines altogether. year.” house and out in the paddock, the be looking to help “The mower is perfect for what The TS 4x2 Gator is used every tractor is also useful for towing tree kubota establish its we need, and has been an absolute morning, carrying hosepipes, branches and moving 1 tonne bags higher horsepower godsend,” he says. “We only have landscaping materials and as a of grass for the elephants to feed tractor ranges. three hours to cut around 13 acres general workhorse around the on, said Andy. Married with two children, david said, “kubota is a surrey Team global manufacturer known for its quality Victorious and reliability and I am delighted to at the Three have joined such section match a well-respected company. The annual Three Section match “My role will be between Essex, Surrey and to continue to drive Sussex at Three Bridges Golf sales for kubota’s Club in Essex, was was won by core groundcare the Surrey team pictured - the utility and compact first time the trophy had been equipment range but retained, or won by any team to also support its outside their own county. move into the higher The day was Sponsored by horsepower tractor Ernest Doe and Sons, Andy market, which is Turbin pictured on Jacobsen where my experience Eclipse will be invaluable.”

8 GI DECEMBER 2010 GI NEWSDESK

Success for Writtle Student Anthony Stockwell, who was featured in the October 2009 edition of GI for his Living the Dream article regarding his placement at The London Golf Club, has successfully graduated from Writtle College, a partnership institution of the University of Essex. Anthony received an upper second class Honours BSc degree in Sport New Kit for a New Centre of Excellence Turf Science and Management. Anthony found the The Vale Resort’s newly manufacturer and machines “I used to use Toro many relationship with The London developed Welsh Rugby Union to suit the centre’s needs. moons ago on the golf course, Golf Club very supportive National Centre of Excellence Two new Toro Reelmaster but we switched to another as he was able to work at has recently been kitted out 3100-D mowers and a manufacturer’s machinery – weekends during the final year with a brand new fleet of Toro heavy-duty Workman HDX it’s great to have Toro of his studies before taking turf maintenance machinery. utility vehicle with topdresser back. up a full time position on The £4million state-of-the- are now hard at work at the “I’m really pleased with the greenkeeping staff upon art training facility is home to training ground, which also the mowers – they feel really completion of the course. the Cardiff Blues rugby team features an extensive indoor robust and solid when you sit In January 2011 Anthony, as well as Cardiff City Football training centre and the world’s on them.” who has a firm belief that Club and the Welsh Football most advanced 3G outdoor What’s more, Welsh Team only the correct application Association, and needed a floodlighting. Manager, Alan Phillips, has of science and management top-notch fleet to mow and Geraint Scamel, Head given the Toro fleet the official techniques can progress the maintain its six international- Greenkeeper at the Vale thumbs up, commenting: industry, has applied to start standard practice pitches. Resort, which is based in “I’m glad Geraint and the studying for a Masters degree The WRU charged local Hensol, near Cardiff, said that boys have got the proper in Professional Studies of machinery dealer Ted Hopkins he was delighted with the new equipment they need to do a Turfgrass Management. Limited with selecting the right arrivals. top-class job.”

If your abstraction licence is up for renewal, read this message from the Environment Agency

Of approx 340 time limited abstraction allow continuing abstraction the drive to application is being determined (known licences up for renewal by March 2011 encourage early submission will be even as LEV). only 175 applications have been received. stronger,” she explained. If applications are not received in “We don’t want licence holders to find “In previous years we have been fairly time we will treat it as an application themselves in the situation where they lenient in accepting applications for for new water which may mean that do not have a current licence to abstract,” renewal right up to the point of expiry details of the application would need to said Fiona Ireland EA, Permitting Team and we have considered applications be advertised and if the abstraction is Leader Water Resources. submitted after the expiry date of the old in an over-abstracted or over licensed “Like any business we need to plan licence. catchment it is possible that it would not and manage our workload and we have “This will no longer be the case be renewed under the same terms and tried to encourage the early submission and in future we will be enforcing the conditions as the previous licence and in of applications but have not yet been legislation - licence holders must get their some cases may even run the risk of not successful. In a couple of years we will applications to us at least three months being renewed at all,” said Fiona. have 900 renewal applications to process before the old licence expires in order If you think you are affected then call and if we are going to be in a position to for us to process their applications to the Permitting Support Centre on 0114 determine these applications in time and allow continuing abstraction while their 289 8340

DECEMBER 2010 GI 9 GI neWSdeSk four new faces at sherriff sherriff amenity has expanded Golf Club and Ashbury Golf its national sales team with Club. the addition of four new Chris O’Kane has been amenity specialists. promoted from within Sherriff Edward Harris takes Amenity and is now responsible responsiblity for sales in North for sales in Norfolk, Suffolk and East England. Edward has Cambridgeshire. extensive experience within the Chris joined the company in amenity industry. 2008 in a sales and transport He studied an HND at administration role. Myerscough College in Turf Adam Hartley joins the company Science Golf Course management. having spent the last 22 years as a He has also worked as a Greenkeeper, the last nine of which Greenkeeper at The London Golf were as Course Manager at the 27 Club, Hanbury Manor Country hole West Chiltington Golf Club in Club and Loch Llomond Golf West Sussex. Club. Adam will be covering West Edward also spent a couple of Sussex, Hampshire and Dorset. years in Abu Dhabi, managing “I am delighted to announce football pitches for Sheik Hamdon these appointments,” commented and Sheik Mansoor. Mary Pyrah, Amenity Director of David Chammings will be Agrovista UK . covering Cornwall, Devon and “All four are now undertaking Somerset. their BASIS training, which we see Prior to joining Sherriff Amenity as vital qualification for anyone David spent 8 years working in the advising the use of chemicals in greenkeeping industry at Exeter the amenity industry today”.

10 GI DECEMBER 2010 GI NEWSDESK New Holland Stalwart Retires to the 19th Hole handle a wider range of tasks. His love of tractors and Air conditioning used to be machinery started when he standard as there weren’t any used to sit on the wing of his cabs,” said Alan. father’s Fordson Standard. He has spent the last 10 From there he progressed to an years in charge of New Holland’s apprenticeship before working 65-115HP tractors, the T4000s, in multiple roles across service, TD5000, T5000s, and fruit sales and marketing with tractor tractors. Working on that size firms. He then joined Fiat and of machine has allowed him to New Holland from 1991. travel the length and breadth of Of his 48 year career, Alan the UK and Republic of Ireland, said, “I’ve lived my dream, which meeting customers on local started when I was with my authority and sports grounds, father on the farm. I’ve always and sites that are close to his had the ambition to work with heart – golf courses. machinery and tractors and I’ve “We sell a lot of T4000s into been able to do it. I’ve made a golf courses and during my tremendous number of friends career I’ve had the chance to over the years, worked for a New Holland is saying farewell considerable change since he work with great people on some wonderful company in New to one of its most experienced entered it as a 17 year-old. special courses. Holland and enjoyed every Product Marketing Managers “When I started most “Obviously St Andrew’s would minute of it. I won’t retire rich, who has spent almost half customers would have a tractor be a highlight. To be stood in but I’ll have rich memories.” a century in the groundcare on every implement, and their workshops and looking Steve Basnett, who has industry. the UK industry supported across at the R&A clubhouse been working in New Holland’s Alan Hawes, who has worked about 33,000 machines. That and golf hotel you think: ‘It’s a demonstration team across for the company for the last number has now halved, and dream come true to be training Europe, took over the role of 20 years, is retiring from an tractors have become bigger, these people on our tractors at marketing product support industry that has undergone more powerful and able to the home of golf,” he added. specialist in October.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 11 GI NEWSDESK

Bobcat has appointed Promac Solutions Ltd as the company’s new Authorised Dealer for Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Promac is now responsible for the complete range of Bobcat equipment from skid-steer, compact tracked and all wheel steer loaders, excavators, telehandlers and utility vehicles to a comprehensive selection of Bobcat attachments that together deliver versatility and time-saving efficiency across a huge range of different applications. A successful supplier of new and used plant and machinery for earthmoving, construction, demolition and recycling, Promac was formed in 2006. Commenting on the new appointment, Grant Linton, Managing Director of Promac Solutions said: “The addition of the Bobcat range is an excellent complement Bobcat to the leading brands we represent throughout the South East which include Doosan and Montabert. Takes Bobcat has one of the leading ranges of compact equipment with a superior range of compact Promac loaders, mini-excavators and telehandlers.”

Aeration Day

A precise and quite perfect exhibition of clean hollow-coring stole the praise at T H White’s Aeration Day at Mill Ride GC, where 35 turf professionals from Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire had assembled. Wiedenmann’s GXi8 HD Terra Spike using 11 mm diameter coring Eileen Calls It A Day tines and going 80 mm deep effortlessly aerated one of the greens in a After 28 years service Scotland’s East text book display which was met with enthusiastic appreciation. as liaison officer for Section wishes Eileen Laurence Pithie, Director of Turf Master One Consultancy, whose the farming sector and every success in the earlier aeration lecture session had covered all aspects from solid greenkeeping training at future. tining, scarifying and hollow-coring said, “The Wiedenmann GXi8 HD Oatridge College, Eileen Picture showing Eileen now overcomes the old problem of golf clubs having to purchase two Barry has retired. being presented with machines to hollow core and deep tine greens and tees. This machine Eileen has seen many flowers and gift voucher can do both quickly and cleanly with adjustable depth and using a changes in the years from Tom Murray variety of tines to suit all situations throughout the year.” that she has worked at on behalf of the East The event which was BIGGA/CPD accredited had been organised by Oatridge College. Section. Ian Royston, area manager of TH White, Reading.

12 GI DECEMBER 2010 Chairman’s Word National Chairman, Paul Worster, gives his thoughts for the month

Change brings opportunities...

If anything has become drawn with the GCSAA who have present to answer your questions obvious to me over the course taken considerable time and dili- about BIGGA and its future direc- of this past year – it is the gence in their search for a CEO and tion. I urge all members to attend. need to embrace change. are only just beginning to initiate To avoid repetition of the same Change can be unsettling, this despite losing Mark Woodward questions on the day may I invite change can be daunting, but back in May this year. you to submit written questions in always, always, change brings While this is ongoing, BIGGA advance? You can do this by email- opportunities. must not take its eye off the ball. ing me at [email protected] Opportunities to improve. Oppor- We must press on with our mission . There should also be time for any tunities to become more efficient. statement which, put succinctly, questions that might occur to you Opportunities to become more is to advance the greenkeeping at the last minute. prominent in the industry. Oppor- profession through education, There will also be an opportunity tunities to become more effective. training, and CPD. for our Trade Partners to also meet Time waits for no-one, and there is the Board and to ask questions. more than ever a pressing need for We will need to help others to This will take place before the us to develop our abilities. take these opportunities Exhibition opens and is the ideal chance to build on the success that A single efficient unit to move If we are to advance the entire is Harrogate Week. the profession forward profession and not just a few individuals we will all need to take FREE Development Seminars At the moment however – it is these advancement opportunities for Assistant Greenkeepers survival of the fittest. BIGGA has and make the most of them. We will a great network of volunteers; a need to help others to take these New for 2011 there will be a great infrastructure on a Regional opportunities because BIGGA FREE ‘Development Seminar for and National basis, and right now intends to always provide CPD Assistant Greenkeepers’ (Wednes- all this needs to function as a single opportunities for everyone. day 19th January 2011 from 2pm efficient unit to move the profession We will all need to participate in to 4pm). This very down-to earth forward. local section, region and national and friendly seminar has been spe- The BIGGA Volunteer Board is events and we will all need to cifically devised to increase the con- looking closely at the organisational engage more fully in the wider golf fidence and work performance of finances and the structure of the industry. Assistant Greenkeepers. It is a free association – particularly HQ at Harrogate Week is a case in point. seminar but places are limited so BIGGA HOUSE. This only comes around once a please make sure you or your team We have the most terrific, year. This coming year, the show members register early by contact- purpose-built building with offices could be smaller than the last. ing Sami or Rachael at BIGGA HQ and a meeting room, but I must However, with a huge effort, the on 01347 833800 - Option 3. add that BIGGA, like many other ‘Continue to Learn’ programme will organisations in this recession has actually be bigger than ever before, FREE Volunteers Workshop to face the truth. Our costs are to compensate. too high and our income has been Also new for 2011 will be a FREE dropping. These opportunities will not be ‘Volunteers Workshop’ (Tuesday It is quite clear to me that there diminished at all 18th January 2011 from 1.30pm to is not much more income in the 3.30pm) for people who are consid- industry at this moment. As a This will mean that the network- ering helping out their local section consequence the BIGGA Board ing opportunities – the research, and want to see if volunteering is for has been examining and cutting the exchange of ideas, the exchange them. If you are interested you will costs wherever appropriate, to bal- of information and problem solv- be joining the largest membership ance income and expenditure. The ing – these opportunities will not association for greenkeepers at all Board is looking at every last item of be diminished at all. In fact they levels in the world. Quite a club to expenditure from travel expenses to will be increased and all of them be in! the cost of meetings, from stationery will be available to each and every The Volunteers Workshop is also to printing, and heating & lighting. one of us. for existing volunteers from the UK We are also looking for a new This year, the Board will meet TALK TO PAUL and around the world who want

CEO. This is not something to the members in an ‘open forum’ Please note that any to be even better at advancing the be rushed. A job description has situation. This meeting will follow member can contact the greenkeeping profession. Chairman directly and been drawn up along with a person immediately after the AGM when all privately at: In my experience volunteering specification. A parallel can be Volunteer Board members will be [email protected] can be great for your career... (continued on page 67)

DECEMBER 2010 GI 13 Greenkeepers Training Committee

David Golding, Education Director, with a monthly update from the GTC

Many of us will once again Home Unions working with the ensure the education and training start the New Year with the Sections and Regions of BIGGA In Brief provision within the sector is at best intentions to get fit, organising short courses can only As we move into the the forefront of employers’ policies diet and generally feel better be good for the industry. festive season David looks and planning during the New forward to a New Year and about our lifestyles. However Clearly other subject areas how employers as well Year. rather than discuss the 1% from all aspects of greenkeeper as greenkeepers must While the GTC knows that have more education and who will stick with their maintenance and management training as their New Year there is something available not just health and safety will be Resolutions and not to give for everybody whether you are resolution let us think where up on it days or weeks into we in the 99% can all set a addressed and promoted through January an employer or greenkeeper we realistic target and move the GTC’s Quality Assured Centres have to ensure all the options towards it albeit slowly but and Training Providers. The GTC is funded by: and opportunities are well surely. Whether the training is part publicised. The GTC will, as its target, be of a formal qualification offered Please check out the GTC’s keeping employers aware of the through a Centre or College or a Quality Assured Centres and options and various opportunities half or one day workshop offered Training Providers on the GTC to invest in staff development and by a Quality Assured Training website, contact us direct or in particular their responsibilities Provider it has to be good for the come and visit us on Stand C12 in this area. individual and the business. at the BTME Exhibition 18- 20 One key area to highlight The GTC has a clear remit January. employer legislative to maintain the Occupational For now please ensure your responsibilities is health and Standards for greenkeeping and enjoy the festive season, especially safety, albeit the one subject that while we will continue to ensure New Years Eve and remember is mocked by the media, but surely there are relevant Government keep that resolution realistic and nobody can question the safety of accredited qualifications one area achievable!! staff and customers which has to we are keen to see develop are be every employers top priority? short courses for greenkeepers The following statement should and employers. really focus the mind of all I often hear, “where does a employers: newly elected Green Convenor “Recent accident investigations and Chairman of Green get their have revealed a significant training from” and we all know of weakness in employer engagement the quips about how this position and a failure to develop an is the short straw or the job on the effective safety culture; in one committee which nobody wants case this resulted in enforcement etc. action being served requiring golf Coupled to the Course Managers club directors to attend a one day and Head Greenkeepers who tell safety awareness course. me that just when their Chairman Safety culture starts at the top has completed their “training” and cascades throughout the they are moved on so here we go organisation by example and again! good communication. Developing Well in nearly every case there is a positive safety culture has help at hand! considerable benefits and costs Sector specific Health & Safety nothing!” Guidance, wall charts, training At a recent HSE arranged manuals and training courses are Photo by Nick Gates, Abridge GC, Essex workshop in Durham every golf all available. club in the County except one had The range of agronomic a representative in attendance, subjects and management Contact Details and an apology was received topics are all covered through a from that club, all the delegates variety of learning methods from David Golding GTC Education Director thoroughly enjoyed the day. books, on-line learning and short courses available to employers 01347 838640 Greenkeepers and golf club [email protected] officials working together has to be and greenkeepers. GTC the future and this will become the We must all work together Aldwark Manor model the GTC looks to promote in these difficult times and all Near York YO61 1UF through the Home Unions and successful businesses highlight BIGGA. staff development as a key factor www.the-gtc.co.uk Counties and/or Regions of the and the GTC is now looking to

14 GI DECEMBER 2010 learning & Development sami Collins, head of learning & Development, with an update on education issues

santa has been on TV Problem - Envirosports Recognition of Protected Habitats advertising a favourite soft Linking Fuel Savings to Reel Main- and Species’ is now available Free drink and left me singing “The tenance - Bernhard & Co of Charge to all BIGGA Members. holidays are coming!”. as The Three Steps to Transition To get your copy contact the L&D the excitement grows for the - R&K Kensett Department on 01347 833800 man in red to deliver all that Coated Seed Delivering Species the funding provided (option 3) or email education@ by Golden and Silver we’re wishing for, the buzz Transition on the Golf Course! - DLF/ Key Sponsors is used to bigga.co.uk. Your field guide will surrounding harrogate Week Johnsons Seeds produce training and career come with a divider to complete aids, DVDs, CD Roms, and the Continue to learn Aeration on Golf Courses - Terrain field guides and provide your field guide folder. programme is also creating a Aeration refunds for training fees and subsidised learning and bit of stir. Green Up Your Greens - British development courses. the higher education scholarships Wild Flowers funding also helps support seminars, workshops, Continue to learn at Environmental Management of courses, the lending library, careers advice, posters and harrogate Week your Golf Course with the Latest manuals. Technology in Chemistry - Tower The final scholarship of 2010 has Many young greenkeepers been awarded to: Many of the workshops are Sold Sport Europe owe their career Out and there is great interest in Turf in the Sustainability Era - progression to the Greg Wellings – MSc by Research assistance they’ve had several of the featured seminars. Lindum from the Learning and All this promises that the Queen’s Woodfuel Energy that Grows on Development Fund. An I would like to take this opportu- equal number of established nity to thank Ransomes Jacobsen Suite of Harrogate International Trees - The Forestry Commission greenkeepers have also Centre will be very busy – just the The New EU Water Directive and been able to access the and their continued support for this fund to continue their worthy scheme. In 2010 we have way we like it! its Impact on Golf Courses - Waste professional development thanks to the donations of awarded 10 Scholarships total- We are fortunate to be presenting 2 Water the Golden and Silver Key a number of seminars from compa- Utilising Foliar Fertilisers to Opti- Sponsors. ling just over £9,600. Ransomes nies who are exhibiting at the trade mise Putting Green Programming Jacobsen has now invested more show, these include: - TurfCare Group than £130,000 into helping over Efficient Nutrient Technology - Energy Efficient Irrigation - ITT 100 BIGGA members attain higher Vitax Lowara education qualifications. Improving Turf Quality - Headland Amenity Further seminars are being The Future of Turf Management added. Check the website for the - Scotts most current information www. master greenkeeper Integrated Lake and Pond Man- harrogateweek.org.uk/education. Certificate agement - Sherriff Amenity Remember, all of the Seminars Why Electricity Generation Makes are FREE and are available on a I am delighted to announce that Economic Sense for Your Business first come, first serve basis. Ensure Contact Details we have three new Master Green- - Solar Wall that you are at the Queen’s Suite in Sami Collins keepers: Fulvic Acid the Biostimulant that plenty of time to secure your seat. Head of L&D Stuart Yarwood MG – Lymm Golf Extends Early and Late Season [email protected] Club, Cheshire Growth - Symbio Protected habitats and Rachael Duffy Alan Pierce MG – Ham Manor Golf Fludioxonil Providing Innovative species field guide L&D Administrator [email protected] Club, West Sussex Disease Management and Applica- Alan Hess MG CGCS – Augusta 01347 833800 (option 3) tion - Syngenta As I mentioned in last month’s Pines Golf Club, Texas, USA Bunker Erosion: A Sustainable column, the new ‘On Course www.bigga.org.uk My congratulations go to all three Solution to an Age Old Golfing Field Guide to the Legislation and for their achievement.

Thank you to our golden and silver Key sponsors

Golden Key Individual Members: Steven Tierney; WJ Rogers; Andy Campbell MG, CGCS; Iain A Macleod; Frank Newberry; Neil Peachey Silver Key Individual Members: Ade Archer; Steve Dixon; Paul Jenkins; Richard McGlynn; Sam Langrick; Neil Whitaker; Graham Wylie, Michael Beaton, Douglas Duguid, Derek Grendowicz, Jaey Goodchild

DECEMBER 2010 GI 15 InduStry update GI The latest turf industry news from around the globe first for Clandeboye Clandeboye Golf Club, is the first club in Ireland to purchase the Jacobsen Eclipse 322 hybrid ride-on greens mower. Course Manager is Terry Crawford and he is particularly impressed with the array of new features built into the mower. Commenting just after Captain’s Day he said:

appointment Countrywide has appointed David Howells as a member of its team of turf and amenity specialists. David will be working with greenkeepers and groundstaff throughout West Midlands, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire. With more than 20 years experience in the industry, David started his career as a greenkeeper at Harrogate Golf Club before becoming Course Manager at The Shropshire Golf Centr,e in Telford. A move into sales followed, with ET Breakwell’s initially and then Headland Amenity as a Technical Manager, a role David developed over 10 years. “I purchased this mower because of all the new features it possesses and, Turf and Amenity Manager, most of all, because it is free of hydraulic oil. Martin Townsend is delighted “all my staff have now experienced using the mower and are very with the new appointment.. impressed by its comfort and just how user friendly it is. It has an on ““David’s in depth knowledge board computer which allows the user to change almost anything to do of the industry will be of a huge with set-up; for example clip rates, cut speeds, travel speeds etc, the list benefit to our customers,He joins goes on. This allows us greater control of how the greens can be presented a growing team of dedicated and according to the prevailing conditions. likeminded turf professionals “overall the eclipse 322 has proved to be an important asset for the golf focused on delivering first class club and is a very important piece of kit to the greenkeeping team. I would results for greenkeepers, course highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking of purchasing one.” managers and groundstaff throughout the UK.”

SanlI putS eleCtrICal poWer on tap

As the nights draw in, the thoughts that can be moved quickly and easily to of many amenity and grounds care wherever emergency or back-up electrical professionals as well as home and estate power might be needed. owners invariably turn to the irritation and Outdoor power equipment and engine nuisance of power cuts caused by winter specialist, SANLI, has introduced two gales, ice and snow. such generators known as the GS720 and One way of ensuring light and warmth GS2400, producing 720 watts and 2,400 on the darkest of days, or nights, is by watts of electrical output respectively. The means of a portable stand-by generator GS720 model is shown left.

16 GI DECEMBER 2010 What’s your number? Our regular and random profile of an industry figure continues with this month’s lucky number...

Come in No 12! It’s Campey Turf new form of turf protection Care’s MD... name: Richard Campey from Grassform Company: Campey Turf Care Systems According to the Met Office, Mark Dunning, Company Position: Managing Director last winter, the UK received an Director at Grassform, said: average rainfall of 255mil. In “PortaPath is a leading ground how long have you been in addition, significant snowfall protection product which is the industry? from mid-December until the particularly suitable for the winter 35 years and counting. We’re end of February resulted in the months. It offers a reliable and preparing to celebrate our ground becoming waterlogged and cost-efficient method to providing company’s 25th anniversary in 2011. unstable. This year is set to be no outdoor flooring and walkways, different, with another ‘white-out’ with the advantage of being how did you get into it? predicted. installed quickly, meaning our I responded to an advertisement that SISIS placed in In response to this, Grassform customers will save time and our local newspaper. They were looking for a service has developed PortaPath, a money.” engineer but I ended up being a sales demonstrator. temporary outdoor flooring For further information on the product which protects turf equipment and services on offer What other jobs have you done? and prevents soil compaction, from Grassform please visit its I worked in agriculture, milking cows, and did a short while also benefitting from a slip recently launched new website stint in pharmaceutical research. resistant surface. www.grassform.co.uk What do you like about your current job? The variety – every day’s different. It has given me the opportunity to travel the world, meet interesting people and learn as I go along.

What changes have you seen in the industry? The quality of playing surfaces, and UK turf professionals have led the way. With regard to turf care machinery, the build quality and engineering has come on in leaps and bounds, and there’s so much more to come. We’re going to see manual operation giving way to electronics and remote-control. Machinery will be able to multi-task

What do you like to do in your spare time? I like to take my Morgan out for a run in the countryside, and do a spot of clay pigeon shooting.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time? Running the North West branch of the ‘Victims of VOSA’ Support Group, signing copies of my published works ‘Tachographs for Dummies’, and joining other ‘silver surfers’ at night school on a ‘Computers for Beginners’ course, trying to type with more than my forefingers. I’m message from mosCoW still convinced there’s one button that does it all - I just haven’t found it yet! Golf Technology Ltd, Ransomes Jacobsen’s Russian distributor based in Moscow, held a four-day greenkeeping seminar recently to Who do you consider best friends in the industry? showcase the latest products from the Ipswich-based manufacturer All our customers and fellow turf professionals while including the Jacobsen Eclipse hybrid greens mowers. Ransomes I’m very fortunate to have worked with some brilliant Jacobsen is a Textron Inc (NYSE: TXT) company. individuals. Ko Rodenberg, inventor of the Koro Thirty-five greenkeeping staff from golf courses across Russia, TopMaker, stands out as a great man. Byelorussia, Kazakhstan and Ukraine attended the event which was held at Moscow’s Agricultural University and Pirogovo Golf Club. As What do you consider to be your lucky number? well as product demonstrations, the seminar included presentations With our anniversary next year, it has to be 25. It’s a from renowned agronomist Dr Richard Hurley, of Rutgers University, major milestone for me, my family and my staff. and Jon Scott, Head of Agronomy at Nicklaus Design. Richard has picked David Golding of the GTC

DECEMBER 2010 GI 17 FCEAoUtrUSErE FEAtUrE

An environmental haven

Scott MacCallum travelled to the north west coast to meet a man who is seeing some real rewards for his hard work

James Hutchinson examines some fungus

18 GI DECEMBER 2010 fairhaven golf Club, in begin to move forward profession- essential course management work lytham st annes, is one of the ally until about five years ago, ironi- has been carry out – is quite awe finest tests of golf in an area cally, when the club first entered inspiring. which is renowned for quality the Golf Environment competition. “Basically I started to improve courses. With its unusual tree “Peter knew I was interested in my knowledge base by keeping in lined but links characteristics the environment and asked me touch with the guys at the STRI and it is very much one of a kind, to go round the course with Bob but nowadays it is forging Taylor and Kelly Harman, of the an equally strong reputation STRI, as they assessed the course,” for its environmental recalled James. stewardship. “I spent a couple of days with Peter Simpson is Course Manager them but was embarrassed that but credit for much of the work that when they asked me questions I has been carried out on encourag- didn’t know any of the answers. I ing ecology on the course must go to felt completely out of my depth. his Assistant and Eco Co-ordinator, “I decided there and then that if James Hutchinson, whose infec- I wanted to progress in greenkeep- tious enthusiasm has galvanised ing, and ultimately get a course of the entire club and seen him named my own, I’d have to do something as the Conservation Greenkeeper of about it.” the Year, as well as him closing in That was very much the catalyst on a Sports Turf Science Degree, at and to say that James has upped Myerscough College. his game since would be very much But it was not always so and while an understatement and the work James was always a conscientious that has been done on the course and dedicated worker, he didn’t – mostly in spare time after the A small wet area has been created to serve the local fauna.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 19 COURSE Feature

“We have 17 different varieties of butterfly and we are delighted that the 73% of the 100 wildlife boxes we have erected in the last five years (many of them built by members of the team) were occupied this year, and up 1% on the year before” James Hutchinson

20 GI DECEMBER 2010 started to gather as much informa- tion as I could from the web and from books. I now have around 20 books, most of them about nature and golf course ecology but there are also some on pure greenkeep- ing.” Having well and truly caught the education bug someone then told James that he could gain a degree by distance learning and this was something he kept in the back of his mind for around a year. “I didn’t think I’d have the right criteria to do a degree, as I was lack- ing academic qualifications, but I did have 18 years in greenkeeping and what I did have was Accre- dition for Prior Learning so when I got in touch with Myerscough they accepted me. I was over the moon and determined to give it my best shot,” said James, who has rigidly stuck to two hours of study every evening since and has been rewarded with results consistently over the 70% mark. James received funding for his course from the Ransomes Jacob- sen BIGGA Scholarship Fund while he has also been successful in win- ning an R&A Scholarship, covering the final two years of his course. He is hoping to graduate in June next year. But while he has been putting in the hours at home in front of a computer screen James, with the full encouragement and support of Peter and the rest of the team at Fairhaven, has also ensured that the golf course is now alive with flora and fauna. “If you had come to the course four or five years ago you would certainly have seen some wildlife but there is far, far more now. We have 17 different varieties of but- terfly and we are delighted that the 73% of the 100 wildlife boxes we have erected in the last five years (many of them built by members of the team) were occupied this year, and up 1% on the year before,” he said, of the bat boxes, bee boxes, owl boxes, kestral boxes and modi- fied tennis balls on sticks aimed at encouraging Field Mice. As a younger greenkeeper James didn’t push himself forward to achieve, believing that should be left to others and he actually left the profession for a couple of years around 1999 to set up his own gardening business. “I used to do Peter’s garden for him and one day he said that one of his guys was leaving and did I want to come back. It had been driving me mad to be spending so much time on my own so my first words were ‘When can I start?’.”

DECEMBER 2010 GI 21 Feature

The pond is part way through a three year clearance programme.

“We do most of the work after hours, staying behind more Golf Park, in Devon, won the top Award. in our own time or when we have a few hours left “We are all very proud of him on a Friday afternoon after we’ve done everything and the great thing is that he’s got the other lads interested as well. for the weekend” It’s just snowballed and Jim has been the main instigator. Winning Peter Simpson the price has been a just reward for him,” said Peter, as we spoke after a Enthusiasm bursts from every mil and the introduction of home course walk. pore when James talks about the grown 100-200 mil plants to the Conscious of the ever present various projects being carried out natural links areas of the course; potential criticism of spending too on the course – a passion which Common Reed encouragement and much time on the nature reserve carried over to his invitation to visit finally those Field Mice habitats element of the golf course and not the course with a host of emails made from tennis balls. enough on the playing areas Peter urging me to pay a visit. James had received news of his is keen to ensure that the environ- “My aim has been to have some- Conservation Greenkeeper of the mental work is an “add on” rather thing on every hole as well as many Year Award from the STRI Golf than “alternative” to the regular of the out of play areas and we have Environment Competition after course management. achieved that.” his invitation to visit the course but “We do most of the work after Proof needed? before it had actually taken place, hours, staying behind in our There is. but, in truth, he had almost given own time or when we have a few Creeping Willow encouragement; up on winning this year. hours left on a Friday afternoon Heather regeneration; Woodland “I had been told that we would after we’ve done everything for the management – eco piles, standing receive news the week before so weekend. What would we do - tidy timber and Rhododendron/Syca- when Peter came flying down to me the sheds or do a couple of hours of more management; Composting as I was on the 12th fairway with this work?” of golf course waste; Wild flower a letter from the STRI I wasn’t too The cash prize that the club Meadow creation; 100 wildlife hopeful. The Club had won Best received for previous success in the boxes; Orchid encouragement with Newcomer in ’07 and was Northern competition has been ring fenced three types now on the course; Winner in ’08 and ’09 and the enve- for environmental work and if they Marran Grass introduction; Wet- lope had contained a certificate. need to buy Marram grass the funds land recover project; Pond clear- This letter looked a bit thin but it are already in place to do it. ance of Canadian Pond Weed; Dune did contain news – right at the very The club is not standing still in Slack development – the green staff end – that I’d won the individual the development of the golf course removed all the turf by and then award,” said James, who can now from a playability perspective replaced it piece by piece; Gorse look forward to at Study Trip to the either and it has recently been management – a five year rotation United States, in the company of rewarded by the R&A with the World policy of coppicing down to 50-80 Colin Webber, whose course, Port- Junior Open to be held during the

22 GI DECEMBER 2010 CoUrSE FEAtUrE

A rivetted bunker

week of the Royal Lytham Open in 2012. “We knew were in line for either a Final Qualifier or The World Junior Open and are absolutely delighted to have got this. It is a big event and some of the stars of tomorrow will be playing.” Ahead of that they are currently involved in the redesign of the the redesign of the par-3 5th par-3 5th under the direction of golf has made its home on the course the other birds, but we are a bit course architect, Tom McKenzie. which perhaps marks it out as dif- concerned about them becoming “We are making the green more ferent from most courses. weaker through inter breeding.” visible from the tee, but at the same “We have nine ring - necked para- While those parakeets may have time trying to keep the bunkers in keet who live on the course and who lost their way to have arrived at the play,” said Peter, whose team are we see quite regularly. They must North West seaside resort of Lytham doing the construction work in- have escaped from somewhere,” St Annes the same can’t be said of house. said ames. James, who is now right on track In keeping with ensuring a chal- “They are quite aggressive to and loving his job more than ever. lenge for the modern day player with the modern day equipment the club’s plan in recent years has InSEt ABoVE: A box for been to take the course over 7000 catching wildlife, and a modified tennis ball on sticks aimed at yards and it now stands at 7025 encouraging Field Mice from the back tees. rIGHt: the greenkeeping team “That’s the end of it. We are over 7000 yards so that will be the last of the winter alterations,” said Peter, who explained that the current description of the course is ”Hybrid”. “We used to be know as a tree lined links, or semi links – we’ve got revetted bunkers and most of the course is on sand – but the current name is Hybrid.” With Fairhaven moving forward and becoming a haven for all sorts of wildlife there is one species that

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24 GI DECEMBER 2010 SCHoLArSHIP Thanks!

The conveyor belt of those BIGGA members who have benefited from Ransomes Jacobsen Scholarships just keeps on rolling and over £125,000 has been gifted to talented, ambitious people who could only move forward with assistance towards their course fees, since the scheme was launched in 2002

This month three of the recipients, at different stages of their careers, talk about their experiences and thank Ransomes Jacobsen for allowing it to happen

Paul Farrell Msc my career, I felt that if I gained a more scientific understanding of This June I attended my the subjects within our industry graduation at Cranfield then it would help me make more university for the msc in informed judgements. I had started sports surface Technology. as to look at the options for higher a beneficiary of the Ransomes study, at the various colleges in my Jacobsen scholarship fund area, which included BSc degrees I would like to give a brief etc, when I spotted the advert in insight into my experience Greenkeeper International for the over the last two years. MSc in Sports Surface Technology Having started out in greenkeep- at Cranfield University. I wrote off ing 28 years ago, I have always for the information pack and found strived to gain academic qualifica- that the module format would fit tions to supplement my practical well with my work schedule as knowledge and experience. these took place over the ‘winter’ Beginning with City & Guilds 2- 4 months. and then moving on to the Higher However the costs involved did National Diploma in Turf Science prove to be a stumbling block at at Myerscough College. Although the time and I gave up on the idea. the knowledge I had gained was That is until three years later when certainly of great value to me in I came across the course informa-

Paul Farrell Msc DECEMBER 2010 GI 25 SCHOLARSHIP

tion at the bottom of a folder. This subjects such as soil science to • Each area was sampled and the got me wondering again, only this synthetic surfaces. nematode populations were identi- time I did have some finances avail- As mentioned an individual fied by their feeding guilds. Each able, but still not enough to finance project/thesis was a criteria of the area was also tested to ascertain the whole course. This is when I course. You aimed to choose a topic the levels of microbial biomass thought of applying for the Ran- of original research, which seemed present. somes Jacobsen Scholarship fund difficult at first – we all know from • Information was gathered on through BIGGA to see if they could browsing the internet on greenkeep- soil type, the plant species present help. Thankfully the response was ing matters the wealth of research and the management strategies a positive one and they did grant that already exists on subjects we applied to the given areas. me the scholarship, which was a might be interested in. • Analysis and discussion of the great relief as this then allowed me The trick, if you are struggling, is results took place, comparing the to complete my application for the to maybe take a subject and tackle different turf areas. course. it from a different angle if possible. The following is the ‘abstract’ When the time came to start the Also it is important to have a genuine taken from the thesis which con- course, some doubt did creep in as interest in the subject, as otherwise sisted of over 15,000 words: to whether I was up to it, after all it months of research will become a Nematodes can destroy turfgrass seemed to be a big leap from HND chore, which besides making you surfaces creating unplayable play- to MSc, as I was under no illusion miserable, will probably reflect in ing areas, which can have great of the standards that would be the quality and end result of your financial impact upon stakeholders required in terms of work submit- thesis. The subject of my thesis - such as owners and users of sports ted and in the amount of hard work was ‘The Ecology of Nematodes and facilities. and effort that was to be needed. Although damage caused by Also I did chat to a past MSc plant parasitic nematodes in turf is student to gain an idea of what to When the time came to start the recognised as a problem. expect, he said the experience was course, some doubt did creep All nematodes play an important “like putting your n*ts in a vice and role within soil biota, being involved letting someone give them a good in as to whether I was up to it. in nutrient and energy cycling. kicking for two years”, although It seemed to be a big leap from These nematodes can be identified he did add it was a great experi- and separated into different groups ence and well worth it in the end. HND to MSc, and I was under no by their feeding guilds. Nematodes Surprisingly this didn’t put me off, interact with the soil biomass and but it did give me an insight into illusion of the standard required are involved at every trophic level what lay ahead, plus I had been a and the hard work needed” within the soil food web. Head Greenkeeper for over 20 years Therefore any management prac- so I already knew what that felt like Paul Farrell Msc tices carried out upon a turf area anyway! should consider the effects they The two years that followed were Microbial Biomass Populations in might have on not only nematodes tough at times, the usual highs managed turf’ but also microbial biomass popula- and lows whenever you attempt The project was designed to deter- tions within the soil. anything worthwhile, however the mine the possible effects that turf An investigation was undertaken support you get not only from the management practices have on the to assess what effects manage- lecturers but also your peers is dynamics of nematode communities ment and soil type had upon the brilliant. Basically everything is set and microbial biomass populations nematode and microbial biomass up to help you reach your goals, if within different turf surfaces. populations of nine different turf- you are prepared to work hard to This was achieved with the fol- grass areas. achieve them. lowing objectives – The investigations also sort to The course was made up of eight • A selection of six different turf ascertain if a relationship exists modules, each module taken as surfaces, four areas allocated to between nematode and microbial a two week block release over two the playing of sport (golf, football, biomass populations within the years, plus two group projects and cricket, tennis) and two non sport turf areas. the thesis/ individual project. The surfaces (ornamental lawn, road- The results found that there were modules were varied, ranging from side verge). significant differences in the nema- tode populations found and that different community structures exist across the different surfaces (p< 0.05). Microbial biomass populations across the turf areas also showed a significant difference (p < 0.001). The levels of nematodes and microbial biomass were considered in relation to the management practices carried out and soil type. It was found that the two influ- enced the nematode and microbial biomass population size. A weak positive correlation was found between the nematode and microbial biomass populations (r = 0.58). However it was considered that

26 GI DECEMBER 2010 SCHoLArSHIP this apparent relationship was Darren Anderson MG more likely caused by the influence of the management practices and It was August 1992, the look of soil type and that the nematode disappointment on my Parents and microbial biomass populations faces said it all! I had just shown were responding in a similar way to them my GCSE exam results and the effects that they had upon the my Father who back then was also soil environment. my Course Manager, leant back on Although you may think 15,000 his chair at the kitchen table and words is a lot, this is usually a said. “Well you’re lucky to be in a concise version of all that you have career that you can get a education found. in, not all kids who have just failed Taking on a research project, their GCSE’s can say that”, he then especially if for the first time can followed on to say “You better stick be daunting, but again the support in when you go to college for your and guidance from the lecturers is NVQ level 2 or else”! I kept quiet as brilliant and is there throughout I had got away very lightly with a the process. Also you will probably telling off! find yourself having to develop new It was another year before I was skills just to carry out the project. sent to college, the reason being, My particular challenge was so I had good basic greenkeeping collecting and extracting the knowledge practically before I went; nematodes from the soil samples this was also so I had more interest and then identifying the different in the subjects being taught to the nematodes by their feeding guilds class if I had some practical experi- under a microscope, plus the task ence in them. Little did I know that of extracting the microbial biomass this would be the start of a very long from the soil samples, along with education through different stages, getting to grips with the ‘statistical even becoming the 46th Master analysis’ of all the results from my Greenkeeper in 2008 and the look investigation. of pride on my parents’ faces, I

If anyone is thinking of taking think I had been officially forgiven ABoVE: Darren Anderson MG on the challenge of the MSc, then for the GCSE exam results 16 years one piece of advice I would give, is earlier. “I remembered the Ransomes to ensure that you are ‘PC literate’ Throughout my education I have and I don’t just mean how to get on been lucky enough to have a train- Jacobsen scholarship that I read ‘Facebook’! ing provider, North Wales Training about in GI and on the website, This won’t help you understand (NWT) who funded my NVQ levels the subject matter more easily, but 2,3,4 with all the extra courses like so I applied and got accepted!” it will help with your time manage- NPTC training that helps towards Darren Anderson MG ment. NVQ’s. In 2001, they also paid for There is nothing more frustrating my HNC in Golf Course Manage- than plodding your way through ment, I told myself this was the day release with it being on-line, computer programs when you final qualification I was going to the Club happily granted the rest should be doing it in two or three do, but in 2008 I decided to dust of the expenditure to pay for the clicks, believe me I know. Also the off the computer and study for my remaining sum of money. nature of the Msc has now changed Foundation Degree in Science this The FdSc – Online course at slightly. was On-line and the subject was Myerscough was excellent and the Cranfield are continuing their Sportsturf. staff headed by form tutor Dr Andy Sports Surface Technology MSc The Club was supportive in me Owen were always happy to help. course as a ‘masters by research’, doing another qualification as they For anyone thinking of taking up which allows particular flexibility knew they would benefit from it too, this course, I cannot state enough, for suitably qualified part time but they also wanted me to look it’s a great course but you have to be students looking to study. Full into funding to help with the costs fully committed to it! It is a step up details are available at http:// to keep expenditure down as with from any other qualifications I have www.cranfield.ac.uk/students/ most members clubs of late. done and I’ve done a few, you will courses/page1823.html With no more funding avail- have to be regimented in allocating Finally I would like to take this able from NWT and almost all the yourself revision time, we are all opportunity to thank Knights avenues of funding exhausted different with our circumstances Grange sports complex for the towards the FdSc – Online at so how you allocate your time up is use of their facility for my project Myerscough, it didn’t look like I up to you, I would suggest approxi- and Dr Mark Bartlett for his sup- wouldn’t get a any financial help, mately eight hours per week, and port and guidance throughout the but then I remembered the Ran- if you can get some study time off process of my thesis, also my fellow somes Jacobsen scholarship that I work, take it, sadly for me, I had students for helping to make the had read about in the GI magazine considerably more work commit- whole experience an enjoyable one and on the website, so I enquired ments than usual with the run up and of course my thanks. about a Scholarship, following on to to Abergele’s Centenary and grant Gratitude go to BIGGA and the applying and then being accepted, work to be carried out after being Ransomes Jacobsen Scholarship I presented the club with the infor- awarded money from the Ryder fund who without their financial mation on funding of the on-line Cup Legacy Fund to build Two support my MSc would not have course, also informing them that I extra practice facilities, this made been possible. would not be missing work through it hard to allocate time for study-

DECEMBER 2010 GI 27 SCHoLArSHIP ing, so all my study was done in my structed to USGA specification, Peter Leach own time. Originally I told the club along side the greens construction that I would not be away for day was the installation of a new com- release because it was online, but I puterised valve in head irrigation What a fantastic three years, the was going to give myself flexy study system. At the time I was the most rewarding years of my life so time, when I could go home for a Deputy Head and the club placed far! After completing NVQ Level 3, I afternoon when work could spare me in charge of the project, half way didn’t feel ready to make the step up it, that never really happened and through I was lucky enough to take from Deputy to Head Greenkeeper the total time I took off for study over as Course Manager but felt that it was vital to keep my over the course was Two days. If I On the second phase of construc- education progressing. I decided could go back and do it all again I tion the irrigation installation was that the on-line Foundation Degree would make sure I allocated time not going to plan and I noticed that Sports Turf provided by Myerscough for it. the company installing the system College was the most suitable route I always got my work done; it were cutting very large corners, for me personally and this was the would have just been a lot easier after many site meetings with them best decision I have ever made. and a lot less stressful if I had allo- and the rest of the project team When I started the course my aim cated time for the course. their contract was terminated and was to do my best with the time The whole course was on-line, in a new company was awarded the that I had available. My results at fact the graduation was the first time contract to finish the installation the end of the first year were better I had been to Myerscough College and to rectify the corners cut, the than I expected and this gave me and met any of the other students. corner cutting and using poor the encouragement to work really Myerscough College On-Line quality materials would of gone hard for the final two years. After Learning Network (MOLLNET) unnoticed if I hadn’t studied the nearly three years of assignments, was excellent; you have your own Irrigation module in the HNC and deadlines and exams it was such student page to receive your on-line the club would have ended up with a proud moment for me to attend hand outs, which I must say were a poor quality irrigation system. the Graduation Ceremony at to the highest standards! I’m just There are many great subjects Myerscough College. It has been glad the paper I used to print the in the FdSc and I find them all the biggest achievement of my life to handouts was from a Sustainable useful, Increasing my knowledge in pass with distinction and to be the Source as there was lots of it! At disease management/ ecology and winner of the Barenbrug Turf Award the end of each lecture booklet conservation etc some subjects I for 2010. This was presented for there was a list of reading material had already studied in my HNC like having the highest marks out of the to assist you in your studying, the sports surface construction and on-line Foundation Degree Sports BIGGA lending library was a great Irrigation, but stating that the FdSc Turf students who graduated this help with the books being aimed is a higher qualification the subjects summer from Myerscough College. at greenkeeping and associated were delivered in much more depth I would like to say a huge thank subjects to golf course manage- giving the students more knowledge you to Ransomes Jacobsen who ment, there are nearly all the books about the subjects supports BIGGA’s Higher Educa- needed for revision, but remember I would like to take this oppor- tion Scholarship. The funding pro- there will be other students with the tunity to thank David Withers and vided from this scholarship enabled same listing as you. Ransomes Jacobsen for the fund- me to comfortably meet the costs The exams were also delivered ing, I would also like to thank all of the course. Thank you to my in the same way, with all the infor- those involved from BIGGA in the employer Exeter Golf and Country mation on the subject’s timetable, decision to award the Scholarship Club and John Parr the Course but the Tutors always message to me for my FdSc in Sportsturf. Manager for their flexibility and everyone in advance just to remind My qualifications have always especially John for his information the students. helped me in my career and in turn and advice. Also, I received fantastic The exams would become avail- helped Abergele G.C in its progres- help from Exeter’s Mechanic, Brian 2010 able to print 20 minutes before the sion since I have worked there, Chidgey, and Robert Guntrip, from scholarships start time and they are done under whether it was being asked my Devon Garden Machinery. I was awarded Winners exam conditions according to the opinion as a assistant, to making very lucky to have the support and encouragement from my family information given on the exam decisions as the Course Manager, Jamie Blake - On Line sheets, these were posted back to one thing is for sure, with my latest Foundation Degree - Sports Turf throughout, thank you for putting the college the same day with wit- edition to my portfolio I’m well Craig Parry - SVQ Level 4 - up with me and getting me through Management ness statements from the Secretary equipped for the exciting new devel- the stressful times! on the exam procedure. opments that are in the pipeline for Timothy Johnson - BSc The prospect of studying a course Honours in Turfgrass Science on-line may seem daunting and I I’ve got to where I am today Abergele Golf Club, adding another (online) through qualifications, the NVQ’s step in the clubs continues progres- had reservations at first, however, James Stevens - On Line the on-line delivery provided by I gained were specific to my job sion as it strides forward into its Foundation Degree - Sports Turf Myerscough College is excellent. and experience at the time helping second century. Gary Cunningham - NVQ Level me understand greenkeeping and I hope my story from being a 4 Sports Turf A bit like an e-mail account, each on-line student has their own page course management practically and teenager with no qualifications to Andrew reason - HNC Golf academically each stage of the way. where I am today has encouraged Course Management (Online) on the College Mollnet. Learning resources are sent each week The HNC went back to the class not just young Greenkeepers but Derek robson - Online Certificate in Turfgrass to your page as well as regular room teaching us subjects com- Greenkeepers of all ages to go to Management pared to gathering evidence and college, the Scholarship is open to messages from the college tutors. Michael Boyes - On Line Assignments are delivered to your building portfolios for the NVQs all BIGGA members and you wont Foundation Degree - Sports Turf In the HNC my favourite subject get it unless you look into it and page and completed assignments Graeme Latto - SVQ Level 4 in can be handed in on the same page was Irrigation Design/Installation apply, the scholarship could be the Management and control, this came in handy at difference for a greenkeeper being in the same way that an e-mail Greg Wellings - MSc By attachment would be sent. It is very the time as the greens at Abergele granted of refused a college course Research were being redesigned and recon- by their club. user friendly and an E-Learning Team are easy to get hold of via

28 GI DECEMBER 2010 SCHoLArSHIP

with many other skills. For those at producing these in the context studying on-line while working full- of golf course management and I time, your time management and am certain they will be invaluable organisational skills will quickly to me in the future when I hope to improve. A little and often approach make the progression up to Head to studying is recommended Greenkeeper. although I found my time input had Completing Foundation Degree peaks and troughs corresponding Sports Turf has given me a lot of with deadline dates. I recommend confidence in my ability to be able a good wall planner with deadlines to manage my own golf course as clearly marked as this really helped Head Greenkeeper in the future. my time management! It is also Knowledge is not always retained important to maintain a healthy (in my mind at least!) therefore I work / life balance. made sure that I printed off all of the college lecture notes and I pur- “It was most chased selected textbooks along the way meaning that I now have a satisfying for me wealth of resources to fall back on in the middle of which is reassuring. It was strange visiting Myer- winter, knowing scough College for the first time that I was doing this year as I have actually been attached to this College since 2003, something to when I started the work-based keep my career NVQ Level 2 Amenity Horticulture (Sports Turf), before progressing progressing, with on to Level 3 and then Foundation the dark, cold and Degree. Thank you to Myerscough College for providing me with the wet months passing solid foundations for what I hope will be a long, enjoyable and suc- more quickly” cessful career in greenkeeping. Peter Leach A big thank you to BIGGA and the GTC for ensuring that edu- cational opportunities are easily e-mail or the phone if any problems The course improves your accessible to all who wish to learn are encountered. computer skills in every manner and develop. The actual Foundation Degree ABoVE: Peter Leach including word processing, spread- Whatever college or course you Sports Turf is a brilliant course as sheets and presentation software; choose, sign up and get learning in it is relevant, useful and challeng- e-mailing, digital photography order to continue your professional ing. I spent a lot of time actually on software, internet researching development. It was most satisfying the golf course taking soil samples, and I have even become good at for me in the middle of winter know- identifying grasses, weeds and dis- annotating aerial photography. ing that I was doing something to eases and studying the ecology at These computer skills were used keep my career progressing forward. Exeter Golf and Country Club. It is to produce reports, presentations, As well as this, it was a great distrac- much more than being sat in front policy documents, site analysis tion from the dark, cold and wet of a laptop with a textbook open. and appraisal, project planning months making them pass quickly. The first year provides the and scheduling, critical appraisals, I would like to congratulate all essential good grounding with soil maintenance schedules and pro- who graduated this summer and to science and plant biology as the curement reports for committees. those few achieving the BSc Hon- main subjects. The second and These are all familiar documents ours Degree, including local Devon third years provide more specific to any Course Manager so I am Greenkeeper Josh Webber – well modules for sports turf: Turf grass grateful to have had the practise done! growth and development focusing on the science of the grass plant and a study of the different spe- cies; Turf grass disorders; Ecology and conservation; Sports turf machinery and their management; Construction; Irrigation systems; Surveying, planning and design. Credit and thanks must go to Andy Owen and Stewart Brown and their team at Myerscough College for producing and delivering such a professional and excellent Sports Turf course. Such a course must be recognised within the industry for its quality, relevance and acces- sibility for full-time Greenkeepers. Not only has the course dra- matically improved my theoretical knowledge, it has provided me

DECEMBER 2010 GI 29 Join the Association for Sports Turf Professionals

Are you employed in the maintenance of sports turf at a sports facility? Do you want to be taken seriously as a sports turf professional? Do you want access to a wide range of bespoke education courses? Do you want to be part of a large network of like-minded people where shared knowledge is a key ingredient? Do you want to be part of a progressive association that actively works to enhance the professional reputation of sports turf professionals?

If you answered YES to any of the above questions then Membership of BIGGA is for you. Why Join BIGGA?

• Industry specifi c, education and training • Sports turf industry networking • Greenkeeper International – BIGGA’s • Commitment to CPD offi cial magazine • Maintain standard and quality • Careers advice and guidance within the profession • Regional and national events • Dedicated members’ website

Look to your future by joining BIGGA today... Tel: 01347 833800 select option 1, email: [email protected] visit www.bigga.org.uk

Promoting best practice in sports turf management

SPORTSTURF_MEMBERSHIP_NEW_FP.indd 1 21/4/10 12:58:57 Feature

Turf War for invasive root Nematodes

A potent weapon is emerging in the fast moving Turf War. Hilary Knight talks with Colin Fleming

Throughout the turf based Fortunately, there is a new and tions are experiencing significant ABOVE: microscopic images of the nematodes, clockwise: spiral leisure industry a new war is potent weapon in this recent ‘Turf nematode damage. Plant parasitic nematode, stunt nematode and breaking out. And the enemy War’. Lead scientists at the Belfast- nematodes are microscopic round- needle nematode is the invasive and destructive based Agri-Food and Biosciences worms (adults are 0.5-3mm long) parasitic root-nematode, Institute (AFBI), are examining the with most of the 4100 described which threatens our love of problem and are currently studying species living in the soil, where grass based sports. new methods to manage nematode they feed on plants especially their Multi-million pound businesses outbreaks, advising key sports roots. The heads of plant feeding at golf courses, football and rugby facilities on how to control potential nematodes contain a hollow spear stadiums and racecourses have a damage to expensive and vital play- or stylet with which they pierce lot to be concerned about. There is ing surfaces. root cell walls and ingest the cell increasing recognition that within Colin Fleming, Lead Scientist contents, causing the plant roots a few months, root systems of hal- from the Applied Plant Science to die. lowed turf can be destroyed as the Division with AFBI outlined the “Although nematodes have been turf becomes thinned, unstable problem. about for some time, several key and more importantly unplayable. “It’s a fast growing problem for changes in modern turf grass It’s potentially a costly commercial our sports grounds. We estimate construction and maintenance nightmare as pitches and greens that 90% of all new soccer and golf have encouraged their spread and have to be re-laid. courses with sand based construc- exacerbated the problem creating a

DECEMBER 2010 GI 31 L&D Feature

ABOVE: Root knot damage to a distinctive pattern of destruction of autumn at a leading UK (Chepstow) bermuda golf green at Raffles Golf Course, Singapore grass root systems. racecourse who have had to cancel “For golf courses and sports the end of their Flat Racing season ABOVE RIGHT: Turf chlorosis and thinning caused by stadiums, the more recent move due to turf instability as a result of Pratylenchoides nematode to sand-based construction to help nematode damage. This created a damage on a sand top dressed fairway (treated on left, with drainage and playability, cre- potential hazard to the expensive untreated on right) ates a perfect environment for nem- racehorses that could catch a foot LEFT: Another example of green otodes and so has also increased on the damaged turf. Since this damage their levels in the soil base. story came to light we have been BELOW: Astounding close-up “More and more of our well- contacted by a number of other of subanguina galls on roots known sports facilities are begin- racecourses in the UK to analyse ning to show evidence of root soil samples to monitor their own damage. An affected turf typically courses.”

“At present our research shows that this is a world wide problem with no simple cure. Once you have plant parasitic nematodes in the soil base, it is almost impossible to eradicate them” Colin Fleming

displays reduced vigour, wilts easily “At present our research shows in dry conditions, responds slowly that this is a world wide problem to nutrient application, becomes with no simple cure. Once you have stunted and chlorotic and may plant parasitic nematodes in the eventually die. Ground manage- soil base, it is almost impossible to ment staff are becoming more aware eradicate them. Research, working of the issue where previously the with a number of forward thinking condition was perhaps mistaken turf-based sports facilities world- for a fungal infection, or ‘yellow’ or wide, is identifying best practice ‘takeall’ patches” methods of managing the problem, “The problem is certainly being restricting the levels of nematodes made worse by climate change as in the soil and so reducing potential milder winters have allowed Nema- damage. We are then able to offer tode levels to increase and hatching advice to these sports facilities on numbers of the juvenile worms the best strategies to manage the are both higher and are occurring problem, backed up by regular earlier in the season.” soil testing to identify times of high “The commercial implications of level nematode hatching and grass this damage, have been seen this maintenance.”

32 GI DECEMBER 2010 L&D Feature

“We are also carrying out research place more pressure on the playing ABOVE: Sean Reilly, Head Greenskeeper Lough Erne into the commercial use of a number surfaces and especially the greens, Resort and Dr Colin Fleming, of natural compounds which are where the turf can become more principal scientist AFBI take core samples of turf for that are showing huge potential in stressed and the native nematode laboratory analysis of nemotode treating at risk areas during hatch- problem can become more of an presence ing periods, so reducing nematodes issue if not treated.” RIGHT: Close-up showing to safer levels. Several of these “Additionally, on championship damage environmentally safe compounds courses golf greens, the pressure BELOW: The darker patches show where turf has thinned as a are showing tremendous promise from players is on to cut the sward result of nemotode root damage in the ongoing fight against this as short as possible to increase the commercially difficult problem.” speed of the ball when putting, but “The turf based leisure industry this in itself is putting more stress is looking closely at this new tech- on the turf which is allowing the nology as it seeks environmentally problem to multiply.” sound technologies that are easy to “We first noticed problem patches use by grounds staff, reduce levels on our greens about 2 years after of nematode numbers, improve turf they were constructed in 2006 and quality by keeping root develop- have been working with AFBI ever ment healthy and ultimately save since then. We take soils samples the huge sums of money it would every 3 weeks sending these to the take to replace the sports turf.” AFBI laboratories in Belfast so that One of the forward thinking they can monitor nematode levels leisure facilities taking part in the all the time and identify the stage AFBI research programme is the of the nematodes life cycle for treat- beautiful and recently constructed ment. When turf is treated during Lough Erne Resort in County the hatching period of the cycle, it is Fermanagh. This course was most effective in reducing numbers constructed in 2006 using a sand by 90%.” based design and after 18 months “AFBI help to advise on how we to two years has shown signs of can best treat the problem here and nematode damage in the greens. we are also one of the pilot amenities Head Greenskeeper Sean Reilly, to test some of the new compounds explained, “Premium courses have that AFBI are developing to treat the to deliver high playing standards problem. The natural compounds that players have come to expect. If fit well with our strict environmen- we weren’t so pro-active in tackling tal policies and natural wetland the problem playability would areas here at the Resort and are deteriorate and problems would safe to use so close to the lakeside. develop. Our championship course We have had some successes so here at Lough Erne Resort has a far with some of these and despite sand based construction which the ongoing problems, our course allows the course to remain in play has stayed in great shape for our throughout the year and this makes players and we know that because business sense. However it does also we have tackled this head-on, we

DECEMBER 2010 GI 33 L&D FEAtUrE

“Soil samples were taken and autumn, as it has shown to be diffi- golden Key sent to the Agri-Food and Biosci- cult to catch the egg masses within sponsors ences Institute in Belfast and the root structures themselves.” nematode damage was identified “For the last two years we have as the problem by Colin Fleming’s been able to control the situation by team. As a result we took 8 inches managing and limiting the damage off the pitch surface and replaced from nematodes by a programme of this with a completely new soil, sampling to identify life cycle stages sand and fibre construction, but and spraying at hatching stages. by 2007, the nematode infestations We have also looked at our cutting were back as before.” regimes in an attempt to reduce “We have been soil sampling con- stress on the turf, which makes tinuously, working with AFBI for it move vulnerable to nematode are winning the battle against this analysis of root damage and nema- attack.” tode hatching and following their “During our short maintenance silver Key almost invisible enemy.” sponsors Football stadiums are also feel- advice for the management of the period in the early summer months ing the pressure to maintain turf, pitch. Their advice has been crucial we also have been removing the as Championship Club Middles- to minimisation of damage and top 10-15 millimetres of soil, which brough FC can testify. therefore costly repairs to the pitch. helps to get rid of the additional Head Groundsman, Tony Bell, We have also been involved in trials problem of meadow grass and has been involved with sand based of a number of natural compounds algae that start to invade thinning pitches since 2002, but had never currently being developed by AFBI, turf areas as a result of nematode encountered the problem of nemo- that are showing some sign of root damage. This has helped to todes until he started to have turf helping to reduce the problem. It is maintain playability and has been problems during the 2005-2006 important to concentrate on spray- a better commercial option than busy football season. ing these compounds to coincide replacing the entire pitch surface “Pitches always thin during the with the major hatching periods of every year which is an extremely this article comes to winter season as light levels drop, juveniles in spring, summer and costly and also lengthy process.” you courtesy of the BIGGA Learning and but by Christmas 2005, the pitch Development Fund. was deteriorating quickly, and the Thankyou to all our key pitch was becoming soft under foot. “The pitch was deteriorating quickly, sponsors Stability became a real problem even though initially, there had been becoming soft under foot. We lost over no visible signs of problems. There were no yellow patches either in 80% grass cover during a busy season” Dr. Colin Fleming can be those early stages, but we lost over Tony Bell, Head Groundsman reached via email address [email protected] 80% grass cover by 2006 during a and the website for AFBI is very busy European season.” Middlesbrough FC www.afbi.gov.uk

34 GI DECEMBER 2010 Unlock the potential of greenkeepers

Become a key sponsor The funding provided by Golden and Silver Key supporters means that BIGGA can continue to produce training and career aids including DVDs, CD Roms, fi eld-guides, as well as refunds for training fees, subsidised learning and development courses, the lending library, careers advice, posters and manuals. To fi nd out more, contact BIGGA HOUSE on 01347 833800

I really wanted to develop my education but had to fund my own training, so I contacted BIGGA to ask for fi nancial support. A refund of my course fees has enabled me to complete my chainsaw maintenance and cross cutting, felling of small trees and my PA6 spraying certifi cates. I really do appreciate what BIGGA, with the support of the Golden and Silver Key Companies, has done for my career.

Murray Mannall, Greenkeeper

The support for this fund has enabled BIGGA to enhance the value of being a member, and it has previously given many greenkeepers the opportunity to further develop their careers. As an association we owe our Golden and Silver Key sponsors a huge vote of thanks.

John Pemberton, Chief Executive

Thank you to our Golden and Silver Key Sponsors

Golden Key Individual Members: Steven Tierney; WJ Rogers; Andy Campbell MG, CGCS; Iain A Macleod; Frank Newberry; Neil Peachey Silver Key Individual Members: Ade Archer; Steve Dixon; Paul Jenkins; Richard McGlynn; Sam Langrick; Neil Whitaker; Graham Wylie, Michael Beaton, Douglas Duguid, Derek Grendowicz, Jaey Goodchild

KEY SPONSORS_FP NEW.indd 1 17/11/10 10:09:39 ECoLoGY

Grow wild on the golf course...

and put the habitat back Linda Laxton offers a guide of what to plant where, when to plant it and the benefits that different species bring not so many years ago, golf a grey water filtering system. need any looking after, they will seed courses were being attacked by If I were planning to bring bio- themselves and attract between ecologists as un-natural, profit diversity to the golf course I’d start them; Bumble Bees (Foxglove), obsessed, elitist wastes of green with the rough and semi-rough as Elephant Hawk Moths (Rosebay space that were endangering they’re the biggest possible areas of Willowherb) the Rosy Rustic Moth our natural habitats and wildlife habitat, and I’d recommend (Hedge Woundwort) and the Plain threatening the environment quite robust plants that will stand Y Moth. The larvae of the Campion with the use of unnecessary golfers tramping around trying to Moth that lives in the Red Cam- chemicals. find their balls! pion’s seed heads is a valuable food Since then common sense source for Blue Tits and Knapweed has tempered that view, aided by Parkland/Inland Courses. provides nectar for bees and but- greenkeepers’ positive attitudes to terflies, while Greenfinches eat the preserving wildlife and the industry’s For parkland and most inland seed. As primroses are pollinated at general move towards sustainability courses Knapweeds, Oxeye Daisies, night they provide food for a variety (where possible) and away from the Hedge Woundwort, Rosebay Willow- of moths. practise of applying products in herb, Dandelions and Buttercups isolation, regardless of the existing will all do the job, with Foxgloves, links Courses. soil make-up. Greenkeepers’ love of English Bluebells, Primroses and nature goes without saying and goes Red Campions for shady areas. All Links courses will also happily with the job, so whether you’re look- you need to do is just clear small play host to Harebells, Red and ing to simply encourage biodiversity spaces and put them in any time White Clover, Stonecrop, Marram MAIn ABoVE: A reedbed in the rough or go the whole hog with from October to March. They don’t Grass, Sea Couch Grass, Dune InSEt: A bee on a knapweed ABoVE: red campion

36 GI DECEMBER 2010 ECOLOGY

WILD FLOWER CALENDAR

January/February – Coltsfoot March/April – Dog Violets, Primroses, Red Campion May/June – Dandelions, Buttercups, Daisies July/Aug – Knapweed, Oxeye Daisies, Clovers, Vetches, Birds foot Trefoil September/October – Hedge Woundwort, Lesser Burdock, Angelica November/December – Guelder Rose, Wild Clematis, Wild Privet, Woody Nightshade.

Fescue, Vipers Bugloss, Slender then sink to the bottom of the pond Birdsfoot and Trefoil, loved by the and live in the mud over winter. They Bombus subterraneus, endangered should be ‘golfer’ proof but need to and almost extinct bumble bee. be planted in the spring when the Sheep’s bit, Scabious and Sea water has heated up. Campion will also do well. For the three butterfly species that migrate Grey Water Filtering to these shores from the Mediter- ranean, the Tortoishell, the Peacock Many of our water loving marginal and the Painted Lady, these plants plants will recycle grey water from provide the first nectar break after the clubhouse caused by washing- ABOVE: A cricket lands in the their long journey. up, washing machines and show- rough. BELOW: Sea campion. ers, which you can safely re-use for BOTTOM: Harebell Heathland Courses irrigation. Grey water needs to pass through The wild flowers mentioned for plants of three different densities general inland golf courses will sur- so you either need a long narrow vive on Heathland courses but due to pond (like a brook) or three smaller the acidity of the soil there are others connecting ponds. Build settlement that will do better. Sheep’s Sorrel beds of re-cycled materials – crushed which is the larval food plant of the glass will last 10 years – and plant Small Copper Butterfly, Harebells, into it. Section one, or your first Thyme and Tormentil, Gorse and pond should contain reeds which Heather, which has its own special have a good root mat and act as a maintenance programme and is physical filter. Section two should adored by bees. Meadow Pippets, have Yellow Flag Irises, Marsh Mari- Grouse and various Fritillary But- golds and Bulrushes, while the third terflies love these plants. and last section needs sedges and floating plants for oxygenation. Lakes, Ponds, Streams and The Lesser or Greater Pond Sedge Water Hazards. will effectively pull anything that’s left, detergent for example, out of the If golfers are likely to be wading water and you will be able to safely in to collect stray golf balls I would re-use it for irrigation.” keep away from plants like Water Golf courses are ‘managed’, but lilies that could get damaged. then so are the ‘wild’ heath lands about the author This situation needs spiky plants of the North Yorkshire Moors and

Linda Laxton is the owner and that are planted, around the edge every back garden in the land. That MD of British Wild Flower Plants, of the water. Marginals including doesn’t stop them becoming impor- 31 Main Road, Burlingham, Norfolk NR13 4TA. Reeds, Irises, Ragged Robin, Purple tant havens of biodiversity and by www.wildflowers.co.uk Loosestrife, Marsh Marigolds and providing the right food source you Email: office @wildflowers.co.uk Bulrushes, once established will can attract even the most endan- Tel: 01603 716615 encourage dragonflies, newts, water gered species and help secure their Don’t miss Linda’s Free Fringe voles, frogs and toads, and can be survival. As Linda Laxton says “Golf Seminar “Green Up Your planted from October to March. courses offer an ideal opportunity to Greens” at 12.55 – 1.25 on Wednesday January 19 during Water Soldiers float in summer and put the habitat back.” Harrogate Week.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 37 Grass seed. BSH ‘Grade A’ grass seed. You won’t notice the difference now, but you will after the Monthly Medal.

The ‘Grade A’ range of grass seeds from British Seed Houses Suitable for all applications and venues Order online at: www.bshamenity.com Or speak to an expert on: 01522 868 714

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38 GI DECEMBER 2010 the ultimate turf management exhibition in Europe Your guide to the annual 5-day event returning to the Harrogate International Centre this January Harrogate International Centre north yorkshire, HG1 5la (uk) 16-20 January 2011

education 16-20 January 2010 exhibition 18-20 January 2010

Supported by:

’

GI It’s January, so it must be Harrogate

Don’t miss out on your annual Harrogate fix, says Scott MacCallum

and this year, despite the delegates in huge numbers global economic situation while, with money short and biting hard, those who budgets tight, companies have make the journey to shown their faith in Harrogate north Yorkshire will be by continuing to exhibit in solid rewarded with an experience numbers. guaranteed to set them off It says much for BIGGA’s on 2011 with a genuine flagship event that such boost. statements can be made, and in The Continue to Learn 2011, like every year since it first Programme (full listings listed on took place in 1988, it is a win-win the right) is superb and attracted for visitors and exhibitors alike.

40 GI DECEMBER 2010 Workshops & Seminars sunday 16th January 10.30 - 18.00 ... Basic Golf Mechanics Workshop...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 10.30 - 18.00 ... Golf Course Design ...... Member - £190 + VAT, Non Member - £275 + VAT 10.30 - 18.00 ... How to be an Outstanding Manager - Part 1: Setting and Managing Expectations...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 10.30 - 18.00 ... Irrigation System Design...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 10.30 - 18.00 ... Moving into Management ...... SOLD OUT 10.30 - 18.00 ... Moving with the Times...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT monday 17th January 09.00 - 17.00 ... Basic Budgeting and Golf Club Finance ...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 09.00 - 17.00 ... Diagnostic and Problem Solving ...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 09.00 - 17.00 ... Golf Course Design ...... Day Two 09.00 - 17.00 ... How to be an Outstanding Manager - Part 2: How to Motivate and Engage Your People...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 09.00 - 17.00 ... Moving into Management ...... Day Two 09.00 - 17.00 ... Pesticides Update for NPTC Certificate Holders ...... SOLD OUT 09.00 - 17.00 ... So You Want to be a Golf Course Manager - Five Fundamentals for Golf Course Management Success...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 09.00 - 17.00 ... Turf Managers’ Conference...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT

Tuesday 18th January 09.30 - 12.30 ... Basic Electrical System Maintenance ...... Member - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 09.45 - 10.15 ... Efficient Nutrient Technology ...... Free 09.30 - 16.45 ... Golf Club Marketing...... Member - £95 + VAT, Non Member - £190 + VAT 09.30 - 10.00 ... Update on UK Proposals for Implementing the EU Sustainable Use Directive...... Free 10.30 - 12.30 ... Producing a Golf Course Policy Document ...... Member - £30 + VAT, Non Member - £70 + VAT 10.20 - 11.20 ... STRI - Part of the Winning Team at the World Cup ...... Free 10.30 - 11.00 ... Wills and Estate Planning ...... Free 11.15 - 11.45 ... Improving Turf Quality ...... Free 11.35 - 12.35 ... Update from The R&A...... Free 12.00 - 12.30 ... The Future of Turf Management...... Free 13.15 - 13.45 ... Integrated Lake and Pond Management - Innovative Aquatic Solutions...... Free 13.30 - 16.30 ... Introduction to Hydraulics...... Member - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 13.30 - 16.45 ... Master Greenkeeper Certificate Workshop ...... Free - Pre Book 13.20 - 14.20 ... Ryder Cup Cymru...... Free 13.00 - 13.30 ... Volunteers’ Workshop ...... Free - Pre Book 14.45 - 15.15 ... Fulvic Acid the Biostimulant that Extends Early and Late Season Growth ...... Free 14.35 - 15.35 ... Preparing the Old Course for the 2010 Open Championship ...... Free 14.00 - 14.30 ... Why Electricity Generation Makes Economic Sense For Your Business...... Free 15.30 - 16.00 ... Fludioxonil Providing Innovative Disease Management and Application...... Free 16.00 - 17.00 ... Annual Awards Ceremony...... Free 16.15 - 16.45 ... Bunker Erosion: A Sustainable Solution to an Age Old Golfing Problem...... Free

Wednesday 19th January 09.30 - 13.00 ... Golf Club Management - Getting it Right in 2011. Hosted by the GCMA ...... £30 + VAT (or 2 for £50 + VAT) 09.30 - 10.00 ... Linking Fuel Savings to Reel Maintenance ...... Free 09.30 - 12.30.... Protected Species and Habitat Considerations for Bees and Butterflies..... Member - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 09.30 - 12.30 ... The Rules of Golf and Course Set-up for PGA Events...... Member - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 10.25 - 10.55 ... The Three Steps to Transition...... Free 10.15 - 11.15 ... The West Course at Wentworth...... Free 11.55 - 12.25 ... Aeration on Golf Courses ...... Free 11.10 - 11.40 ... Coated Seed Delivering Species Transition on the Golf Course!...... Free 11.30 - 12.30 ... Course Manager to Club Manager - The Challenge...... Free 12.55 - 13.25 ... Green Up Your Greens...... Free 13.30 - 16.30 ... Basic Greenkeeping Techniques...... Member - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 13.30 - 16.30 ... Carbon Auditing for Business Advantage ...... Member - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 13.40 - 14.10 ... Environmental Management of your Golf Course with the Latest Technology in Chemistry ...... Free 13.30 - 16.30 ... Good Soil Chemistry and Biology the Answer to Practical SustainabilityMember - £45 + VAT, Non Member - £80 + VAT 13.15 - 14.15 ... Integrated Management of Dollar Spot ...... Free 14.30 - 15.30 ... Demystification of Synthetic Sports Surfaces...... Free 14.00 - 16.00 ... Development Seminar for Assistant Greenkeepers...... Free - Pre Book 15.10 - 15.40 ... Turf in the Sustainability Era...... Free 15.45 - 16.15 ... Working on Your Own at a 9 Hole Course ...... Free

Thursday 20th January 09.45 - 10.15 ... Sustainable Golf Course Maintenance; aligning golf course performance with the requirements of club members. Free 09.30 - 10.00 ... Woodfuel Energy that Grows on Trees ...... Free 10.15 - 10.45 ... The New EU Water Framework Directive and its Impact on Golf Courses ...... Free 11.15 - 11.45 ... Energy Efficient Irrigation...... Free 11.45 - 12.15 ... Simplified Access Control for your Golf Club ...... Free 11.00 - 11.30 ... Using Folliar Fertilisers to Optimise Putting Green Programming ...... Free

DECEMBER 2010 GI 41 (uk) 18-20 Januaryorks, HG1 5 la2011 (uk) HIC, north y 9am-5pm except Thurs 9am-4pm the ultimate turf management exhibition in Europe

blade amenity ltd...... b10 e exHIBItor blec global...... a28a eagle Promotions ltd ...... b38a blinder bunker liner ...... C32 ecosolve limited ...... m2 a-z lIStInGS border sports services ltd ...... C3 ecospray ltd...... C29 bIgga...... C46 engcon uK ltd...... C1 exhibitor stand no british Climate services ...... eZ6b enviromonitors ...... b2 british seed houses...... a29 envirosports ltd...... eZ3 european Turfgrass laboratories ltd a19 2 2iC Consultants ltd...... C10a british Wild flower Plants ...... eZ4 bunker Plug ...... a23b f a C farmura ltd...... a17 abbott (mJ) ltd ...... a33 flo n go ...... a28b air-seal Products ltd...... m28 Charterhouse Turf machinery ltd ..... b37 aitkens sportsturf ltd...... a36 Chemsol (global) ltd...... a23a amazone ltd ...... m3 Coles Cheviot Trees ...... m31 g amenity Technology ltd ...... C26 Complete Weed Control ltd...... C38 gambetti barre uK ltd ...... a41a aquatic solutions uK...... C16 Course Care ...... C13 Garfitts International Ltd...... m38 assa abloY uK ...... m20a Crocodile golf Products...... m17b golf Club managers’ association....C9 aston horticulture ltd ...... a20 gTC (The)...... C12 aTV World - Polaris ...... eZ1 D groundsman Industries...... a12 Delta-T Devices...... a24 b DennIs...... m9 h bailoy...... C42 Divot bag Company (The) ...... b8 headland amenity ltd...... C25 bayer environmental science .....C35 Double a / Tru-Turf ...... C30 humberPalmers fertilisers...... b7 bernhard & Co ltd ...... b33 Duchell uK ltd ...... b30 huxley golf...... C34

42 GI DECEMBER 2010 sports turf maintenance If you work in sports turf maintenance, on any of this... w Free entry and a simple advance don’t miss out on any of this... registration process w turf managementw Unrivalled networking opportunities Free career advice with industry professionals w 3 days of industry specific w Free local Park and ride exhibition, showcasing the w latest products and equipment 5 days of education: bespoke ...and much more workshops and free seminars

w o ver 150 exhibitors covering 4 halls of over 6000 square metres to attend in 2011 The one show

To find out more and to register, log onto www.harrogateweek.org.uk Organised by the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Limited

symbio ...... b4 I Indigrow ltd ...... b32 o ocmis Irrigation...... a21 synergy / ultraplant...... a11 Inscapes...... b1b syngenta ...... b38b Inturf ...... a37b ITT lowara...... a10 P Penn state university...... C7 T Pinpoint Visualisation ...... a16a Talbot sports Turf...... m8 J Jex silt Pumping...... a25b Powakaddy International ...... b31 Tarmac Topsport ...... a26 Job shop - Personel Development Zone ....C22 Progreen Weed Control solutions....a25a Techneat engineering ltd ...... C6 John greasley ltd...... C41 Protea mowers ...... m10 Terrain aeration services ltd...... b9 Johnsons sports seed ...... a18 The grass group ...... a27a r Tillers Turf Company ltd...... a32b rain bird europe snC...... a9b True Surface by Turfline...... m1 K Kensett sports ...... b29 reaseheath College ...... C17 TurfCare group ltd...... C10b reCo...... m15 l lastec uK ltd...... C43 revaho uK ltd...... a35 V limagrain uK...... C33 rigby Taylor ltd ...... C23 Verde sports ltd...... C36a lindum Turf ...... b5 rufford ...... C40 Vermigrand...... eZ8 ls systems ltd...... C37 s Vitax ltd...... a3 scotts Professional ...... b39 W m sheltons sportsturf Drainage solutions ....b11 Waste2Water europe ltd ...... b36 mTs group/Clubcar golf buggies.....m21 sherriff amenity...... C8 Wiedenmann uK...... C45 myerscough College...... C11 solarwall ltd...... eZ6a speedcut Contractors ltd ...... a22 sportcrete ltd ...... b1a Y n north staffs Irrigation...... b26 sTrI...... b27 Yamaha motor (uK) ltd ...... C39

DECEMBER 2010 GI 43 Cattleman’s Association

Montpellier Blues Bar image courtesy of HIC Where to eat, sleep and socialise in Harrogate...

harrogate Week is unlike any other event. It is your WHERE TO STAY… chance to meet and interact with decision makers 24 hours a day. after the show closes there are endless Holiday Inn Harrogate, Kings Road ...... Tel: 0871 423 4876 opportunities to network in the harrogate bars and Old Swan Hotel, Swan Road...... Tel: 01423 500055 restaurants with fellow turf professionals. Studley Hotel, Swan Road ...... Tel: 01423 560425 As you can imagine, Harrogate Week proves a busy time for the Grants Hotel, Swan Road ...... Tel: 01423 560666 pleasant spa town. Majestic Hotel, Ripon Road...... Tel: 0870 1688833 With much to see and do, Harrogate offers fine cuisine and a Crown Hotel, Crown Place ...... Tel: 01423 567755 lively nightlife along with a glamorous heritage, famous for its Cairn Hotel, Ripon Road...... Tel: 01423 504005 Turkish baths. Cedar Court Hotel, Knaresborough Rd..... Tel: 01423 858585 St George Hotel, Ripon Road...... Tel: 01423 561431 WHERE TO EAT… Kimberely Hotel, Kings Road ...... Tel: 01423 505613 White Hart Hotel, Cold Bath Road ...... Tel: 01423 505681 When you’re feeling peckish or want to mix business with plea- Alexa House, Ripon Road ...... Tel: 01423 501988 sure… Yorkshire Hotel, West Park ...... Tel: 01423 565071 Travelodge, The Ginnell...... Tel: 0871 9846238 Alberts ...... Tel: 01423 568446 ...... Bar & dining Shannon Court, Dragon Avenue ...... Tel: 01423 509858 Ali Raj ...... Tel: 01432 621627 ...... Indian Grafton, Franklin Mount ...... Tel: 01423 508491 B.E.D...... Tel: 01423 568600 ...... Modern English Camberley, Kings Road ...... Tel: 01423 561618 Bengal Spice ...... Tel: 01423 502610 ...... Indian Betty’s...... Tel: 01423 502746 .Traditional English For more information on accommodation and bookings visit: Caramba Tapas & Bar....Tel: 01423 505300 ...... Tapas www.reservation-highway.co.uk access code “bigga” Cattleman’s Association .Tel: 01423 561456 ...... Tex Mex or Tel: 01423 525577. Chez La Vie ...... Tel: 01423 560666 .Traditional English Damn Yankee ...... Tel: 01423 561424 ...... Tex Mex Drum and Monkey ...... Tel: 01423 502650 ...... Seafood Harrogate Brasserie...... Tel: 01423 505041 ...... English THINGS TO DO AND WHERE TO PARTY… Hedley’s Wine Bar...... Tel: 01423 562468 ...... English Horoscope...... Tel: 01423 508144 ...... Chinese Carringtons, Station Parade ...... Tel: 01423 525551 Joe Rigatoni...... Tel: 01423 500071 ...... Italian The Moko Lounge, Kings Road ...... Tel: 01423 525862 La Tasca ...... Tel: 01423 566333 ...... Tapas The Viper Rooms, Parliament Street...... Tel: 01423 520567 Thai Elephant...... Tel: 01423 530099 ...... Thai Odeon Cinema, East Parade...... Tel: 0871 2244007 Salsa Posada ...... Tel: 01423 565151 ...... Mexican Harrogate Theatre, Oxford Street ...... Tel: 01423 502116 William and Victoria ...... Tel: 01423 506883 ...... English UK Super Bowl, Tower Street ...... Tel: 01423 529191

44 GI DECEMBER 2010 How to get to Harrogate rail

Harrogate is served by the main line stations in Leeds and York. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes at peak time. Harrogate International Centre is a 10 minute walk from the station. Taxis are available outside the station and will cost around £3.50. For further information on rail ser- vices to Harrogate contact National Rail Enquiries on 08457 48 49 50 or visit www. nationalrail.co.uk. air

l eeds bradford International airport www.lbia.co.uk

Leeds/Bradford airport is approxi- mately 12 miles from Harrogate. Taxis are available at the airport at a cost of approximately £18. You may wish to visit the following websites for flight informa- tion. Directions in most town centre streets in Harrogate. Charges and restrictions apply on Sun- www.flybe.com From M1: Leave at Leeds and take days and Bank Holidays in all parking www.jet2.com the A61 to Harrogate, approximately 15 areas unless otherwise stated. www.airsouthwest.com miles. Harrogate International Centre is signposted. sea The “Bus 2 Jet” 767 service links From M62: Leave at Leeds and take Leeds Bradford International Airport the A61 to Harrogate, approximately 15 Direct ferries with Harrogate town centre. The service miles. Harrogate International Centre is www.directferries.co.uk runs every 90 minutes between 0615 signposted. and 2245, with an average journey From the South A1(M): Leave the A1(M) Direct Ferries are part of Direct Ferries time of around half an hour. For fur- at Wetherby and take the A661 to Harro- Ltd, an online travel provider based in the ther information on this service please gate, approximately 10 miles. Harrogate UK offering ferry crossings to the UK from contact Harrogate & District Travel Ltd on International Centre is signposted. the continent. Registered agents of the + 44 1423 566061 From the North A1(M): Leave A1(M) ferry operators are listed on the website, Or visit www.bus2jet.com at junction 47 and take the A59 to Har- they sail to 14 Countries and 54 ferry rogate, approximately 8 miles. Harrogate ports on over 60 routes. manchester International airport International Centre is signposted. www.manchesterairport.co.uk From the East: Take the A59 to Har- North Sea Ferries, from Rotterdam/ rogate. Harrogate International Centre is Zeebrugge to Hull, 59 miles from Har- Manchester International Airport is signposted. rogate. situated halfway between London and From the West Edinburgh, 75 miles from Harrogate. Take the A59 to Harrogate. Harrogate Park & ride Public Transport links are available 24 International Centre is signposted. hours a day offering services to Harrogate BTME & ClubHouse provides a FREE via Leeds or York. harrogate Town Centre Car Parks ‘Park and Ride’ service from the Great Yorkshire Showground (from the A1M: Coach MULTI-STOREY exit A59 towards Harrogate, follow the ring Victoria, Jubilee, West Park road to the Great Yorkshire Showground national express (A661).) to Harrogate International Centre www.nationalexpress.com SURFACE LEVEL on all three days of the conference and Odeon, Park View, Montpellier Shop- exhibition. If you are planning to drive to National Express is the UK’s largest pers, West Park Harrogate, this service will help you avoid scheduled coach network, offering several any traffic problems in town and save you services a day to Harrogate from all over All town centre car parks are open 24 looking for a parking space. the UK. hours. Charges apply all days at all times The shuttle service will run at thetimes: Car (including Public Holidays) • Tuesday 20 January 08.30 to 17.30 Free parking for Blue Badge holders • Wednesday 21 January 08.30 to 17.30 www.theaa.com and motorcycles • Thursday 22 January 08.30 to 16.30 Pay and Display parking is in operation

DECEMBER 2010 GI 45 Harrogate Week 2011 presents... THE Specialist suppliers to the sportsturf industry� BIGGA FERTILIZERþ BEER FESTIVAL th january COME AND SEE US ON STAND C3 AT BTMEþ pm Tuesday PM 18 to 2011 • 7 10.30 AGGREGATESþ ROOTZONESþ The Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate DRESS CODE: Smart/CASUAL For more info or to BOOK TICKETS CONTACT RACHEL OR ANGELA ON 01347 833800 SEEDþ

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46 GI DECEMBER 2010 WORK AT THE OPEN Volunteers wanted

to work at The Open

The Open Championship, Royal St George’s Golf Club, July 14-17, 2011

This is your opportunity to work at that transport to and from the golf course, new to the Association, will also be actively The Open Championship and assist accommodation and meals will be provided considered. the Royal St George’s team with the for the duration of the Championship. To apply please complete this application preparation of the course and be a You will be expected to report for duty by form and send to: part of the on-course team which 5pm on Wednesday, July 13, and be available Scott MacCallum, BIGGA HOUSE, accompanies each match ensuring until the close of play on Sunday – a meal Aldwark, Alne, York, YO61 1UF. bunkers are raked in a correct and and bed and breakfast will be supplied for For further information contact Scott on: professional manner. the Sunday evening and Monday morning 01347 833800 or email: [email protected] It will be your responsibility to make if required. Closing Date for applications for The Open your way to the team’s base for the week – This opportunity is open to full BIGGA Support Team is February 1, 2011, and you University of Kent, in Canterbury - but after members only. Younger members, relatively will be notified later in the month.

Name ...... Yes No Golf Club ...... I have been a BIGGA member for more than three years.....q.....q Position ...... Age...... I serve, or have served in the last three years, on a Section/Region Committee...... q.....q BIGGA Mem Number ...... I am enrolled on BIGGA’s CPD Scheme...... q.....q Email Address ...... I have attended three of the last five Harrogate Weeks...... q.....q Mobile Number ...... I am/have been a member of the PGA I have applied for/appeared Championship Support Team...... q.....q on the team at: Applied .Successful I am willing to be a mini bus driver St Andrews, 2010...... q...... q...... (You must have held a full driving license Turnberry, 2009...... q...... q...... for three years and be over 25 years of age.)...... q.....q Royal Birkdale 2008...... q...... q...... Carnoustie 2007...... q...... q...... I am an overseas Member...... q.....q Hoylake, 2006...... q...... q......

Note: A place on the team is open to all full BIGGA members but priority will be given to the more active members. Subject to the availability of sufficient numbers of experienced team members no regular team member will be selected for more than three teams in succession. A limited number of places will be made available to younger members and overseas members. Please ensure that you have spoken to your golf club or Course Manager prior to applying and have arranged the time off. Should you be chosen you must send a passport picture of yourself to BIGGA HQ as the R&A now have photographic ID for all Open Championship workers.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 47 BE LOOKED UP IN THE ULTIMATE HANDBOOK

Advertise in the annual directory of BIGGA members

BE ONE CLICK AWAY FROM THE NEW BIGGA WEBSITE www.bigga.org.uk

Advertise online

BE SURROUNDED BY BEAUTIFUL SCENERY

Advertise in the 2012 BIGGA Calendar

BE SEEN BY THE BIGGA MEMBERSHIP

Advertise in GI, the monthly magazine for BIGGA members

BE PART OF BIGGA To fi nd out more contact us on 01347 833800

GI_SALES_FILLER.indd 1 25/11/10 16:56:07 WIntEr DAMAGE Preventing Winter Green Damage

Winter damage, aside from causing many a sleepless night, can be costly and time- consuming to repair. In preparation for a potentially harsh winter ahead, Jim Cook caught up with a man who has had a great deal of experience in dealing with such damage, but in a slightly more extreme environment

hauger golf Club sits 13 miles an ideal environment under the encounter different problems every north of oslo, in norway. for snow to activate fungal habitat, year which maybe lie only 15 km up to five months in the year it where Typhula incarnata (grey from one another. The other amaz- is common for the course to be snow mould) and Microdochium ing thing is different areas of a buried under three to four feet patch (pink snow mould) are the particular course can differ greatly of snow, with temperatures most common. This year was a typi- from other areas. Greens at higher plummeting to a numbing -35 cal example where we had severe or lower altitudes can differ greatly. degrees centigrade. outbreaks of grey snow mould Greens and fairways with low spots Course Manager, Eoin Moroney, when we had up to one metre snow or holding points will suffer more took the job of making one of the cover on greens and a very mild cli- winterkill than greens with good busiest courses in Norway present- mate under the snow. The other is run-off highlighting the importance able by spring each year in 2003. ‘winterkill’ where ice sheets create a of good green design.” Course Manager, Eoin Moroney Since then, some of the harshest burning effect on the greens, killing In preparation for winter, the winters ever recorded in the coun- off much of the grass plants in the amount of nitrogen and iron applied try have allowed him to experiment low lying areas.” to greens was crucial. Winterkill can also be caused by “We always try to harden up the with various methods to reduce Eoin has employed a number damage come the melting of the crown hydration, where ice crystal plant going into the winter by apply- of techniques with a view to snow and ice. form in the crown of the plant ing iron late on in the autumn along prevent or minimise damage Eoin spoke of the problems rupturing cells; desiccation, where with applications of preventative caused by the weather in Norway a plant dies after drying whilst fungicide. We have found reducing and of how tried and tested tech- dormant or semi-dormant; and low the nitrogen in the plant going into niques used by him to combat temperature kill, when ice crystals the winter is also a key to combat winter damage could be applied form at temperatures below zero any fungal activity.” to golf courses which endure less degrees centigrade. The occurrence Over the years, Eoin has employed extreme conditions, but might of this winterkill is unpredictable a number of techniques with a view suffer the same symptoms. and as well as varying between dif- to prevent or minimise damage He began by explaining how no ferent courses, can also vary across caused during the snow-covered two winters resulted in the same the same course. months. Several have emerged as kind of damage to greens, although “The surprising thing about being consistently successful. two types were typical every year. this climate is that courses in our “We try to keep the surface of “One is disease where you have particular region always seem to the green dry going into the first

DECEMBER 2010 GI 49 frost period by dewing-off often. We to design greens and surrounds have also invested heavily in snow to cope with the problematic areas “We have 24 hours of daylight in removal equipment to enable us such as good drainage and run-off. quickly to get snow removed when If a greenkeeper hasn’t got a good June and July and it is always necessary. We often will have two surface run-off, he or she is always a tricky task to get out in front 120hp tractors on the greens and going to be faced with an uphill tees in the winter, which is unheard battle for the future.” of golfers no matter what the of in the UK. We have also tried Seasons at Hauger are just five some trials with covering the greens months long and because of long working hours will be” going into the winter and I do have daylight hours meaning early Eoin Moroney, a lot of faith in this. It takes a lot of morning and late evening play on man-power though, which we do the course, an intense working Techniques for dealing with not have at this time of the season. environment exists. Eoin explained winter damage in extreme condi- We have also tried to install tem- how he coped with this. tions differ wildly from course to porary extra drainage in low areas “We have 24 hours of daylight course and budgets are often the of the greens to help get rid of melt in June and July and it is always deciding factor for Course Manag- water underneath the ice at a faster a tricky task to get out in front of ers. rate. Spreading granular charcoal golfers no matter what the working “We are running off a medium end on the surface after snow removal is hours will be. Having good plan- budget and we are four full time staff very useful to breakdown ice which ning and having a high quality of ABoVE: the course covered including a mechanic and up to 13 in ice can be anything from 1cm to 7cm staff is definitely a bonus. Having in the high season. We can manage thick.” sufficient amount of staff is always BELoW: Aeration work on an to remove snow from greens and iced green Green design was vital, so as not going to aid in helping get all daily tees where as a lower end budget to allow ice to form in lower areas, tasks done. We are quite fortunate course might not be able to do this as was preparation. to have from 12 to 13 greenkeepers and will basically leave the snow to “It is definitely about good prepa- on a daily basis supplemented with take care of itself. Saying this, there ration going into the winter, but it is a well maintained fleet of machin- is no right or wrong way and many always about timing it right to get rid ery. Saying that it never fails to Course Managers work with their of the snow. I feel the most critical amaze how fast grass grows and own feelings and local climate. High aspect is at the construction stage, how keen the golfers are to get out end budget courses would have the where the greenkeeper should be in the morning and how late they opportunity to work with winter highly involved with the architects want to play into the night.” covers and plough snow through-

50 GI DECEMBER 2010 WINTER DAMAGE

out the winter and some will also try how his techniques could be applied to create their own micro climate by to UK golf courses and how some installing sub-air systems.” are specific only to his climate. After the snow has melted and “Well bringing a 120 hp tractor damage is revealed, the task of onto a green is, I suppose, a definite repairing begins. Depending on a no go. My experience over the last courses budget, re-turfing, either 10 years has certainly taught me from their own nurseries or by a great deal on how not to panic in buying from abroad may be the stressful situations when pressure only option. At Hauger, turf from to open the course comes from all a small nursery compliments an angles. ABOVE: Work continues and over-seeding programme which is “Learning how to re-establish BELOW: Snow blowing usually carried out. greens in a 3-4 week window is “This is something that both certainly an experience which can staff and members have to be be of benefit back home. Manag- patient with. Getting quick seed ing to create a correct bed for seed establishment in the spring time is establishment along with holding a must and with daily temperature soil temperature up is something sometimes changing from -15 at which is maybe forgotten about in night to + 20 during the day this is the UK. Hardening off the grass often a challenging experience. The plant for the winter period is also use of growing covers in the spring a high priority, along with cutting time is getting more and more with newly sharpened units late in common both to help keep up soil the season.” temperature and also to combat Winterkill, although more severe wind desiccation. in climates such as Norway, can be This is complimented with a frustrating and as Eoin said there heavy scarifying and over-seeding is no right or wrong way to help programme. I find that shallow prevent it. Factors such as budgets, hollow coring followed by drop local climates and how a course seeding with a variety of creeping was designed in the first place come bents gives an ideal result.” into play when considering and Eoin went on to further describe combating damage done.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 51 BASIS POINTS Take a fresh look at the problem of worm casts on turf

Graham Paul offers you the opportunity of gaining some Basis points by looking at the work of the humble earthworm

Every year when autumn ing and constricting the tubular the export of worms from Egypt approaches we are reminded of shaped body. There is a primitive was banned on penalty of death! the presence of those hidden blood circulatory system that Charles Darwin studied the ben- creatures living beneath the consists of two main blood vessels efits of worms for over 40 years and soil, as our grass is once again running the length of the worm. described them as one of the most speckled with worm casts. Blood is pumped around the body important creatures on earth. The majority of earthworms are by a series of ‘hearts’ located in the Throughout the world we believe entirely beneficial to the environ- head end of the worm. there could be as many as 5,500 ment and do not cause a problem Earthworms are hermaphro- different species of earthworm but for man. dites, reproducing by mutual cross we cannot be more precise as some However, in the same way that fertilisation where both partners regions do not have the resources our human society generates a exchange sperm for egg fertilisation. to study soil ecology in great detail. minority of troublemakers, the The eggs are sealed inside a special Most species grow to a length of only earthworm community beneath our protective membrane sack secreted a few centimetres, but some tropical lawns gives rise to a small fraction from the clitellum (a thickened part earthworms can attain a length of of problem-causing ‘outcasts’ – the worms that leave their mess on the surface! In the case of earthworms Throughout the world we believe there could be as though, it’s a species thing. In the UK scientists have many as 5,500 different species of earthworm but we identified around sixty species of cannot be more precise as some regions do not have the earthworm, but only 26 of these are indigenous to these isles and the resources to study soil ecology in great detail majority do us nothing but good. A small group of the British earthworms are known to leave of the body wall sometimes referred up to 3.3 m (11 ft). However, in the casts on the surface; in fact we now to as the saddle and usually located UK our earthworms are of a more believe there are just two or three closer to the head than the tail). modest size range. Ecologists have species that make all the mess on This egg parcel is often buried deep divided earthworm species into four our lawns, sports grounds and golf in the soil to protect the emerging groups (ecotypes) according to their courses. juveniles from predators. habitat and behaviour. In this article I will be taking a Earthworms evolved very early The first group is the Compost fresh look at the earthworm, its on in the history of this planet and earthworms that tend to live mostly varied habitats and the problem of were already hard at work when above ground in piles of decompos- worm casting on grass surfaces. dinosaurs roamed the earth. ing leaf litter or compost heaps. The The earthworm is a segmented, Their very existence results in an breakdown of plant material by annelid* worm (*from the Latin improvement to the structure and bacteria and fungi in the compost- Annelus – ‘little ring’) belonging fertility of soils that enables so many ing process requires moisture and to the phylum Annelida, a group other organisms to thrive. generates significant amounts of which also contains leeches! It History records that in the reign heat, providing a cosy environment has both circular and longitudinal of Cleopatra V11 (51 to 30 BC) the favoured by members of this group, muscles that are coordinated importance of earthworms to soil not to mention a supply of readily to achieve movement by stretch- fertility was already recognised and digestible food.

52 GI DECEMBER 2010 Compost worms (e.g. Eisenia grass surfaces and outdoor sports With a world population veneta) are usually bright red and facilities. approaching seven billion humans have a stripy appearance. In our human world it is mainly in 2010, there are a large number The second ecotype is the Epigeic juveniles and teenagers that get who regularly take part in sports earthworm. This group are also blamed for chewing gum deposits played on grassed surfaces that inhabitants of the surface, tending that mess up our streets and pave- become affected by worm casts in not to make burrows and living on ments but in the world of the Anecic the autumn and spring. plant materials such as leaf litter. earthworm it is the adults that are These include: - over 100 million Epigeic worms (e.g. Dendrobaena responsible for leaving worm cast who play golf, a staggering 265 mil- octaedra) are red or roan in colour mess on the surface. lion playing soccer (FIFA statistic), but unlike the Compost worms The juveniles remain in the 10 million rugby players, and 75 they are not stripy. confines of the burrow until they million taking part in club cricket The third worm ecotype is the mature. Two of the culprits are; the . . . then there are bowlers, hockey, Endogeic earthworm; a group that black headed worm, Aporrectodea grass tennis players, schools and live, feed and deposit their casts in longa and the lob worm, Lumbricus colleges etc., all of which add up borrows in the soil. Some of them terrestris. to an estimated 800 million grass can create very deep burrows and On balance earthworms are sports users worldwide. because they are rarely seen on a valuable natural asset to our This conservative estimate rep- the surface, they are usually pale ecosystem. They are nature’s resents 11% of the population, so coloured – grey, pink, green or blue. farm labourers; aerating the soil, it seems reasonable to make a case An example of this group is Allobo- improving the crumb structure, for worm cast control. phora chlorotica. breaking down dead plant mate- In the past worm control chemi- The final ecotype is the Anecic rial and recycling the nutrients cals containing chlordane and earthworm, and it is the members back into the soil to support future carbaryl had a bad reputation for of this gang that get all the ASBO’s! crops. damaging the ecosystem. These ‘old They feed from above ground on While the deposition of worm style’ worm killers worked by skin leaf litter and grass clippings, which casts on the surface of grassed contact and had a long persistence they drag down into their burrows areas would seem to be of no con- in the soil. The result was that they to digest and are subsequently sequence to most other animals, it could eradicate all worms from the responsible for leaving all the does affect the lives of a significant soil with just one application. muddy worm casts that spoil our fraction of the human race. Although very effective at dealing

DECEMBER 2010 GI 53 with worm casts, chlordane and When we use carbendazim we can available food and that will involve carbaryl had a broad spectrum of only control those individuals that collecting grass clippings when activity against many soil living are adults at the time of treatment. mowing and removing fallen leaves creatures and micro-organisms, A few weeks after spraying, some from surrounding trees in the so they were withdrawn from sale juveniles will start to develop into autumn. This is not always fea- on environmental grounds and less new adults and we begin to see a sible on large areas such as sports damaging products brought in to few casts appearing on the surface. pitches and golf course fairways but replace them. By the time the problem has got bad if it is possible to ‘box’ the clippings Today carbendazim is the only enough to spray again, a whole new and clear away fallen leaves, this approved active ingredient avail- batch of eggs have been laid and so will help reduce the severity of the able for suppressing worm casts on the worm colony survives. problem in the long term. managed amenity turf, although some users still have difficulty get- ting good control. Starting with cultural practices, the first thing that To improve matters we need to comes to mind is to remove the source of freely understand the life cycle of theses casting earthworms. A worm colo- available food and that will involve collecting grass nised soil will have at any one time; eggs, juveniles and adult worms. clippings when mowing and removing fallen leaves Under normal conditions, only the from surrounding trees in the autumn adult worms of casting species will come to the surface to feed. Juveniles generally remain in the burrows and feed below ground. In order to get the best results Next, consider improving the Only when they mature will the with worm cast control, we need drainage in badly infested areas. adults emerge above ground; to to adopt an integrated approach Worms need plenty of moisture feed, deposit casts and to mate with that includes cultural methods to to move around in so drying the another worm. discourage worm colonisation and ground will help to slow them up. As soon as they have mated, the ways to achieve the efficient use of Improving drainage is going to be a eggs are released, fertilised with the chemical. costly operation but it would bring sperm from the other worm and Starting with cultural practices, benefits to the quality of the play- sealed in a sack which is deposited the first thing that comes to mind ing surface as well as discouraging at the bottom of the burrow. is to remove the source of freely worm casts.

54 GI DECEMBER 2010 BASIS POINTS

Another consideration is the soil This means that at this extreme pH (acidity) – earthworms prefer pH, 50% of the carbendazim SELF ASSESSMENT a neutral or slightly alkaline soil, added to the tank will be ineffective so in some circumstances we can within 12 minutes of adding it to Use the questions below to discourage them by lowering the the tank. In contrast, at a pH of 5.0 check your understanding pH with careful use of acidifiers carbendazim has a half-life of 30 of this topic. Readers can such as sulphur. hours. claim two BASIS points if This is by no means an easy task Alkaline hydrolysis only occurs in the questions are answered and you would need to start off by dilute solution so once the chemical correctly, by filling in the having a soil test done and then has dried on the plant leaf it will not form online at: taking professional advice from an be rapidly broken down and so will www.sherriff-amenity.com/ agronomist, as the pH of the soil will remain available to deal with the technical.asp?newsid=18 also have a profound effect on the casting worms. health of the turf. Using carbendazim in this way Circle the correct answer(s) Even if we chose not to manipu- gives us selective control of the cast- late the soil pH with acidifiers, we ing species, leaving all other worms 1) In whose reign was the should avoid using lime or calcified unharmed, since it is only those export of earthworms from seaweed on areas that have a worm two or three ‘Anecic’ species that Egypt banned? casting problem. feed and cast on the surface. In turf that is irrigated on a regu- The only other surface feed- a) Hatshepsut lar basis, it is worth having the pH ing species belong to the Epigeic b) Tutankhamun of the water tested as this might be ecotype and these are worms that c) Ramasses V11 adding to the problem. Tap water inhabit ground with lots of cover d) CleopatraV11 can often have a pH in the high 7’s such as long grass and hedgerows or low 8’s indicating a fair degree of and are unlikely to be targeted by 2) Which of the following are alkalinity. Bore hole irrigation can carbendazim. earthworm ecotypes? (More have a high pH as well, particularly In recent years we have seen than one may apply) if the hole is drawing from chalky or the spread of a new casting worm limestone soils. species on golf greens and other a) Ectoplastic The second part of our inte- fine turf areas. This worm is very b) Endogeic grated approach is to optimise the small, measuring only 10 - 35 mm c) Mesoteric effectiveness of the worm killer. in length and has been identified as d) Anecic Carbendazim works by ingestion Microscolex phosphoreus. rather than by skin contact so we Interestingly, this worm glows in 3) Earthworms are need to apply it in such a way that the dark when disturbed, presum- hermaphrodite, which means the worm will take the product in ably to deter predators such as that they . . . with its food. feeding birds. This is best achieved by spray- It exudes a luminescent fluid² a) live entirely alone ing the chemical onto the turf so from the mouth and along the body b) indulge in self fertilisation that most of the droplets remain on wall. It is a non-indigenous species c) reproduce by mutual cross the leaf, allowing it to dry and then originating from temperate South fertilisation cutting the grass without collection America and was first recorded in d) do not copulate boxes so that the clippings remain Britain³ as early as 1899. on the surface for several days after I have seen this worm infesting 4) Which stages of the treatment. greens on courses in Essex and earthworm’s life-cycle are On fine turf areas such as golf Suffolk, in one case it was living susceptible to carbendazim? greens or on bowling greens and in hollow core holes that had been cricket tables during the playing filled with top dressing. a) eggs season, this is not always possible It leaves miniature worm casts b) juveniles due to the demands of play. on the surface and unlike native c) adults For bowling and cricket then, the species that cast mainly at night, it d) adults and juveniles best time to tackle the problem is in seems to deposit casts throughout the early autumn and early spring the day. 5) Which active ingredients when these areas are not in play. The worrying thing from a Green- were used in the ‘old style’ On a golf green the Greenkeeper keeper’s perspective is that it is not wormkillers mentioned in must chose a window when there susceptible to carbendazim. this article? More than one are no important fixtures. With the exception of Microscolex may apply When spraying a wormkiller we phosphoreus, carbendazim based References should also consider adding an wormkillers such as ‘Caste Off’ a) Thiophanate methyl 1) The Earthworm Society of appropriate adjuvant to the spray offer a sustainable solution to the Great Britain – information b) carbaryl tank to improve the efficacy of the problem of casting on turf. from their website: http://www. c) carbamate earthwormsoc.org.uk/ product. They only target the few species d) chlordane For example, ‘Aqua Tick’ is a water responsible for the casts, leaving all 2) John E Wampler “The bioluminescence system of conditioner that creates the ideal other beneficial worms unharmed. Microscolex phosphoreus 6) In which part of the world pH environment in the spray tank, They do not persist long enough and its similarities to those of other bioluminescent is the worm Microscolex buffering it to a value of around 5.0 to eradicate these casting species, earthworms (oligochaeta)” - phosphoreus thought to in Comparative Biochemistry and preventing alkaline hydrolysis because it is only adults that are and Physiology Part A: originate from? of the chemical. targeted. Physiology Volume 71, Issue 4, 1982, Pages 599-604 Research has shown that car- Their use is restricted to a very a) South Africa bendazim breaks down rapidly at small percentage of the landmass 3) Dr David T Jones & Dr Kate b) South Georgia Entwistle. “Your help needed” pH 9.0 having a half-life of just 12 and this is land that is not involved - in Pitchcare Magazine Apr/ c) South America minutes. in any way with food production. May 2010 d) Southend-on-Sea

DECEMBER 2010 GI 55 letters Please email your notes to: [email protected]

Toro student greenkeeper of The Year award GREENKEEPER

I have been fortunate, over the last few years GI INTERNATIONAL to be involved in the Regional and National OCTOBER 2010 judging of The Toro Student Greenkeeper of the Year Award. Inside... The standard of the students has improved TurfInside... Set year on year; with this years applicants being toFocus Suffer on DRFungicides TERRY MABBETT exceptional. Both at Regional and National PREDICTSDr Terry MabbutSERIOUS WITHDRAWALgets technical SYMPTOMS level, judging is becoming increasingly difficult FOR TURF The Unseen and trying to separate the candidates is very Sean Borret THEIrrigation ONLY System hard. WAYIrrigation IS matters UP This year’s finalists included Sean Borrett who chose to give up a Hawkhurstuncovered GC, in Kent, is this month’s Featured Golf Course Feature Horses promising career in the City to become a greenkeeper. Sean’s teenage (and Tennis) ambition was to become a professional golfer, however he followed a for Courses Epsom and very different path and undertook a degree in Business and Finance StudentWimbledon under the radar that led him to a career in the City. Disillusioned with City life, Sean Greenkeeper of the Year the decided on a career change, following his original passion for golf ANDREW STANGER, OF HORSFORTH GC, and decided to retrain as a greenkeeper. Sean is now Assistant at IS VICTORIOUS AT Ellesborough Golf Club in Buckinghamshire. BIGGA HOUSE This Award, now in its 23rd year, offers a great opportunity to Student Greenkeepers. The quality of the candidates proves the future of the industry is in good hands. I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank Toro for their continuing sponsorship of this popular and important Award. Chris Sealey, Course Manager, Chippenham Golf Club BIGGA Board of Directors Cover of the GI issue showing the winner of the award, Andrew Stanger

refund of fees best wishes I work at Garforth Golf Club, in Leeds, and just wanted to take I would like to say how sad and the time to thank all of the staff in the Learning and Development surprised I was to learn that our department along with contributions by the Gold and Silver key Chief Executive, John Pemberton’s sponsors who have helped me with a big part payment of my course decision to resign from his post. fees. John has held a senior post In this day and age it is very hard to gain anything and a leg up within the BIGGA Management really helps. I would have waited a lot longer to do my course due to for some 17 years, firstly as our the current economical climate. It is with great pleasure that I hope accountant and number two to Neil Thomas, our it continues to support and raise the standards of the greenkeeping first Chief Executive. industry. It was during my year of Chairmanship that Neil Kevin Moore became seriously ill, 2003 was such a tragic year for his wife, Elaine, and the family, when he sadly died. Neil was our first CEO, and did a tremendous job for our Association, That year was also a difficult time for all at H/Q AGM Notice especially for myself, an ‘inexperienced Chairman.’ It was at this time we had to find a new CEO, it was the Board’s The Annual General Meeting of BIGGA will unanimous decision that John Pemberton be offered this be held on Wednesday January 19, 2011 at position. 5.15pm in the Queens Suite at the Harrogate John, on a personal note, thank you for your friendship, International Centre. not only to me but countless others. I would also like to All paperwork including the Agenda and take this opportunity to thank you for all that you have proxy voting forms will be available on the done for our Association, especially during those, and BIGGA Website from December 20. these, difficult times, I know that I speak for all of our The meeting will be followed immediately by an Open Forum Members in wishing you every best wishes for the future. where members will have the opportunity to discuss matters of Yours Sincerely, concern to them with the Board of Directors. George Brown, Turnberry Golf Club

56 GI DECEMBER 2010 Download and learn

How to conduct a one-to-one meeting How to conduct a team briefi ng How to prepare for an appraisal Exclusive How to recruit the right staff to BIGGA How to write a job description members

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Support Resources The series aimed at celebrating the great work done by dealerships up and down the country dEalEr of ThE Golf and Turf monTh EquipmEnT lTd

Location and size Based in Wokingham Berkshire covering Berkshire, Surrey and London

Employees and size of premises 30 employees 35,000 sq ft over two depots

Number of service vans 8 Brief history of company Established in 1987, Golf and Turf Equipment have been providing groundscare machinery solutions to both commercial and domestic users throughout the South East of England, including Key services offered Service facilities London, Berkshire, Surrey, Our association with John Deere has Sales Parts Service Golf and Turf parts department franchises been unbroken since the founding carry over £200,000 worth of of the business and we have parts in stock. Also being a main John Deere, Specialist services stihl, since grown to become one of the dealer for John Deere, Stihl, Charterhouse, ajor, largest independent John Deere Contract Hire, Golf Buggy Charterhouse and Dennis we are Yamaha, m groundscare dealers in the UK. Hire, Specialist Short term and able to call on overnight delivery Tru-Turf, Dennis, Initially based at Bramshill seasonal hire (eg top dressers from their vast UK stock and scag and greenTek, in Hampshire ,the company vertidrains core collectors in the case of John Deere their moved to our present base in scarifies debris collection European and American stock Wokingham in 1991 and it was chippers and many more) too. at this time that Golf and Turf So with our industry best became part of the Burdens parts service you will have less Group ,which at the time was the How has the down time, saving cost and Customers UK’s leading distributor of John dealership changed? inconvenience and removing Deere agricultural machinery. the uncertainty of repair times Chelsea FC Based in Lincolnshire the Quite early on we noticed that and making planning around Hampton Court Palace Burdens group also supplied the our customers were faced with unfortunate breakdowns much RBG Kew horticultural and construction the difficult purchasing decision easier. Royal Parks industry and the partnership has between buying new day to We also stock tools, work Royal Blackheath GC allowed Golf and Turf to improve day mowing and maintenance clothing, oil, John Deere Swinley Forest Golf Club our initiative aimed at furthering equipment or specialist seasonal merchandise (including toys) The Crown Estate customer choice and providing equipment like overseeding and many more accessories National Trust quality parts and service support. and vertidrains. So we decided related to gardening and grounds Bearwood Lakes GC Our customer base now to add the specialised seasonal maintenance. includes many of the UK top 100 equipment to our hire fleet and golf courses, premiership football this has proved to be very popular with our customers and has been clubs, Local Authorities, Private To nominate a gI Dealer of the month contact scott our biggest growth area. Estates and National Trust macCallum with your reasons why the dealer of your Properties. choice should be featured... email [email protected]

58 GI DECEMBER 2010 ’ section notes Please email your notes to [email protected] by the 5th of the month all the latest news from your section around The green

nity to thank John Pemberton prize. Gordon Howatt. Visitors’ scottish region for all he has down for BIGGA prize. Stuart Graham, Captain in his 17 years working for the of Helensburgh GC. Apprentice Association and how sorry I am prize. Chris Boyd, Helensburgh to hear he is stepping down as GC. Longest Drive. Gerry Bruen, CEO. John, all the best for the Williamwood GC. Nearest the Central future. Pin prizes were won by Christain Carvel and Colin Kierney. The north The Section finally got its Daval Trophy winner was Autumn outing played on Octo- Christain Carvel, with 76 pts, As I write the clocks have just ber 13 at the third attempt at and, last but not least, the gone back and the daylight hours a bright and breezy Downfield Scratch Prize was won by Stuart are seemingly disappearing. The which was playing a massive Taylor, Glasgow GC, 69. Gavin Winter Leagues are starting and 7,580 yards (or at least the scores Jarvis and his crew have to be these are the most important suggest that). Seriously though West congratulated on the condition competitions that some of your Paul Murphy and his team had of the course and for all their clubs golfers play in. It seems it looking great following all the hard work in preparing the Only a few weeks away from there are more that turn out for rain we have had in this area course in such a neat and tidy Christmas and the New Year, all the Winter Fours than they do over the past few months and manner. Thanks to the Captain very hard to take in considering for the Summer Medals. They our thanks go to them and the and Committee for allowing us the problems at the start of the are religious, but they still want club for hosting us, along with the courtesy of the course and season, it’s difficult to appreci- the course presented the best it the patrons for supporting the thanks to the catering and bar ate the golfing season has gone can. It’s never ending! Section. staff for dealing with our needs by so quickly. I’m sure all your We held the AGM at Old- Unfortunately, due to the so well. courses are recovering from the meldrum Golf Club on October rescheduling we didn’t have a The annual match against renovation works carried out 21. It was a pay as you play day full field but we did come close to the Club Masters was held once weeks ago and are hoping for and a Stableford was agreed to it. Winners included the afore- again at Helensburgh on October some respite from the overhead keep it all fair. There weren’t too mentioned Paul Murphy who 18 and the match finished with water supply which at times many people turn up but still had the best scratch and Gordon a victory to the greenkeepers, seems never ending, but then enough to hold an AGM and for McKie, who had the best nett. as usual, 3 games to 2. Thanks again we may experience a there to be a few pounds pass- Best in the 1st class was Kenny to all who played and especially similar winter to last year, let’s ing between the golfers for who Mitchell, of St Andrews, while Gavin for organising the Green- hope not quite so long a period scored the most points on the Derek Scott, of Scoonie, won keepers team. Well done. of frost though. day. The 200 Club final draw the 2nd class. Douglas Baird, The Annual General meeting, Well, what’s happened since of the year was drawn and the of Caird Park, won the trophy held at Haggs Castle GC, on the last article, sorry for missing following were the lucky winners for best spring and autumn October 28 was well attended the November issue guys, but - £100 John Geddes (FIX); £30 combined. A full list of prize and the Section recruited some I was on holiday at submission S. McCain, K. Strachan and N. winners is on the website www. new blood on committee for a date. Banner. biggacentralsection.org.uk change with Gerry Bruen and Results of the Autumn Outing Thanks go to Bob O’Donnell Following the golf we held Michael MacIntyre both coming at Helensburgh, which was in and his staff for preparing the the Section AGM where Derek on. The new Section Chairman great condition although the course as I understand that it Robson, of the Dukes, took is John Brown, from Bearsden weather got a bit unpleasant for didn’t stay very dry and the last over as Chairman from Gordon GC, and the Vice Chairman is a spell, but cleared up to be a thing you probably needed in McKie. Bob Meikle, of Crail, is David McBride, from Vale of great day, are as follows: October was us lot turning up, the new Vice Chairman and Leven GC. We wish them well in Third Class. David Reid, Lenzie so on behalf of the Section Bob. Gordon Moir has replaced Andy their term of office and hope all GC, 28 pts; 2. Ryan Brennan, Thanks very much. Mellon as Secretary/Treasurer. runs smoothly. Glasgow GC, 26 pts; 3. Colin There is really a lot of news The members present thanked The AGM was followed by a Kierney, Drumpellier GC, 24 this month so really all I’ve got both Andy and Gordon McKie demonstration of the new range pts. Second Class. 1. Christian to say is to wish all our members for what they have done for the of Toro Equipment, all of which Carvel, East Renfrewshire GC, a very Merry Christmas and a Section over the past few years. looked excellent and this was 39 pts; Blair Sommerville, Hel- Happy New Year whatever you Shaun Anderson, of Piperdam, accompanied by lunch after ensburgh GC, 37 pts; 3. Gavin get up to, enjoy it. There are the was elected onto the commit- and a game of golf, making the Jarvis, Helensburgh GC, 34 pts. Work’s Nights out so again enjoy tee and Stevie Wilson, of the day a great success and very First Class. 1. D. Mackintosh, them. That is if you have one! Dukes, and Ganesh Chand, of enjoyable. Thanks to Hamilton’s Cathkin Braes GC, 36 pts; 2. Happy greenkeeping St Andrews, were the recipients Brothers for the sponsorship of Andy Peace, Helensburgh GC, Ben Brookes of the Patrons’ Award. the day and for the display of 33 pts BIH; 3. Calum Morrow, Murcar Links Finally, on a personal note, I equipment. Thanks to Haggs Drumpellier GC, 33 pts. Trade 07813889374 would like to take the opportu- Castle Golf Club for hosting

60 GI DECEMBER 2010 the event and catering for every The Education Convener gave Jimmy was still waiting in the bodies needs. the members a reminder of the Kingsfield clubhouse to present The Annual dinner has been Section events throughout the Stuart with the Trophy. decided and the venue is the year within our Section and also A final thanks to the sponsors Studio/Victoria’s on December the coming events for 2010- Hendersons Grass Machinery 3 so I won’t be able to report until 2011 season. and the owner of Kingsfield the next meeting. Our new look Committee Golf Centre, Robert Arkley, and Northern On a final note I will have reads like this: Chairman. Stew- his staff for the very friendly become Chairman of the Scot- art Crawford; Vice Chairman, welcome. Hello everyone hope you are tish Region in early November Vacant; Secretary/Treasurer, Have a great Christmas and a all well and ready for your work’s festive outing. We have nearly and am delighted to be selected Stuart Ferguson; Education, good new year. reached the end of another for this prestigious roll and Tom Murray. Committee. James Tom Murray : 07709960163 golf season, and I would like to will endeavour to carry out my Neilson, tom.murray@rathoparkgolf- thank everyone for their sup- duties to the best of my abilities, Scott Corrigan and George club.co.uk port over the last year. Now thank you all for allowing me Oliver the weather has taken a turn this honour and best wishes for Peter Boyd, our Regional towards winter, we can get on Christmas and New Year. Administrator reported on Northern with our winter greenkeeping Stuart Taylor future events inclusive of the projects, not forgetting the few Glasgow Golf Club BTME Show, Scottish Confer- ence and golfing fixtures for the leaves to move off the course. coming year. Hope to get a flyer out in the next Our Chairman talked of the few weeks with next year’s golf way forward of the Section and fixtures, plus a date for a spring closed the meeting at 11.20 am. seminar. A quick lunch was had, North East Sorry there is no news or thanks to the superb catering gossip this month which just East from the Arkley family. Soup With little or no golf news leaves me to wish all our mem- was great! forthcoming this month all the bers and their families a happy Well the weather has turned Robert. I did make enquires talk has been of the Newcastle Christmas and a happy New for the worst , and golf courses as to who made the soup and vs Sunderland football derby, Year. are looking a bit wet to say the we did manage to drag Robert with a Nolan hat trick for the As usual any news or gossip least. away long enough from his lap- black and whites coupled with a please contact me, at 72 West Winter work has started on top for him to be presented with brace for Ameobi completing the Park Grove, Roundhay, LS8 most courses, drainage and a presentation plaque from the rout, It turned into a Halloween 2DY. Mob 07947401278, aeration I think is on most agen- East Section Chairman. horror show for the Mackems, email, frankstewart3 @hotmail. das for us. The two Patrons’ Award win- even the red and whites second co.uk On November 2 we held our ners were in attendance for to top scorer [OG] couldn’t come to Frank Stewart Section’s 24th AGM at Kingsfield pick up there awards for Har- the rescue this time. Fair play to Golf Centre. rogate. And, last but not least, the Mackem fans though even Prior to the AGM, 27 delegates Eileen Barry was presented with they thought it was the most were treated to an intense flowers and gift vouchers as a entertaining and attractive derby demonstration by Jim David- token of the Section’s apprecia- game for years. Keep the news son, from Henderson’s Grass tion for all of her hard work and coming folks hopefully some golf Machinery, regarding the new efforts within the greenkeeping news next time around. North Wales Kubota range . I’m sure after training over the years. As I have commented on lack this display Jim’s mobile phone All that was left to do was play of support in recent months for The season of goodwill and will be red hot with enquiries. golf for the coveted Jimmy Neil- our golf competitions I thought I peace to all men beckons us in; Not the best number of attend- son Trophy. As I was the winner would just have a check on who the shortest day is only a few ees that we have had, but as they of the Trophy last year I thought we have been missing lately. The weeks away and also is the VAT say the show must go on. Our I better go out and defend the last time we had a decent turn- rise so make sure your orders Chairman opened the meeting title. The clouds were gathering out was at Stocksfield in 2006 are in before the price hike in by asking all to be upstanding for and the winds were picking up where 22 people turned up to January! After listening in some one minutes silence in respect I could see in the distance the play with the host club provid- detail to the recent public spend- of the passing of Mark Pagan, figures waiting for me at the 1st ing three players. Unfortunately ing review I can’t help wondering Head Greenkeeper of Eyemouth tee. that was the last time we have if it will affect our finances at our GC, and Norman Wood, Head Robert kindly let me change seen them due to, Barry Wilson. clubs, I know some of the visit- Greenkeeper of Haddington into my golf attire in the Ladies’ since retired; Tony Wilson, ing parties at my golf club are GC. changing area as there was no moved away, and Roy White, based within the public sector, Our Chairman thanked the place else available. I gingerly who moved to Close House and does that mean we lose those committee for the support that crept up to the 1st tee and the is no longer a member. But they parties and the funds that come was given to him throughout the heavens opened we lasted six are not the only ones. We have with them? I hope not. year, and to all members who holes and were soaked through. others who used to attend on a The Christmas tournament gave the time to support our But there were the three players regular basis with the likes of and AGM took place at Mile End Section events. Hopefully we that lasted the 9 holes out of all Newcastle Utd GC, Tynemouth, Golf Club on December 1 but will see more members in the the players and it came down to Beamish Park Hotel and others. due to the date I have to put the near future at the East Section the final hole. As the story went I think since 2009 numbers column in for printing I’m not be fixtures. Jim Smith, Rigby Taylor, appar- have dropped really badly and able to give a review of the day He then gave a brief run down ently had it in the bag ….. but yes it will be probably due to or results until next month. We of all that he attended through- our runner-up from last year work commitments and gone hope to run a coach to Harrogate out the year. Our Secretary/ was in no mood to give up and are the days that golf clubs are again in January probably on Treasurer gave a very good judging by the worn out score happy to let more than one staff the Wednesday of BTME week, presentation of our standing cards Stuart came home the away for the day. the coach will only run if we get accounts and figures and was worthy winner only by a better Jimmy Richardson enough “bums on seats” so if passed favourably by the mem- inward half. Well done, Stuart you or anyone connected with bers. and better luck next time Jim. greenkeeping or clubhouse are

DECEMBER 2010 GI 61 Around The Green interested in taking up a seat phone 07885347818 or even on one thing and another. set to put the Nigel Benn v Chris please contact Jeremy Hughes leave a post on the North West’s The Autumn Golf Day took Eubank clashes to shame. So or Carl Crocher as soon as very own facebook page. place at the new Rockliffe Hall come along and get your think- possible and with seats on this Good tidings to all, GC on October 13 and was ing caps on and support this trip free to members and only Peter McVicar sponsored by Rigby Taylor great event and get one over on a nominal fee to non-members under close guidance from the the groundsmen. it’s a real bargain in these hard wonderful Jamie Applegarth. So The annual “Bring a Bottle” times! a big thanks to Jamie and Rigby golf event at Cleveland Golf Club In local news I have recently Taylor for sponsoring the event. will take place on December found out that Colin Jones of I was unable to be there 15. You must arrive for 9.15am Mold golf club and in Colin’s this year but I am told that the sharp. The cost is £15 for golf words “his other half” are and if the past is anything to go Sheffield course was in great condition. expecting their fourth child in Congratulations and thanks by, a great meal in the clubhouse April. Best of luck from us all on to Dave, Pete and all the rest of afterwards. Participants must Hello everyone, the forthcoming event. the greens staff for providing bring a wrapped bottle along as I hope you all have almost I think that’s about it for this an excellent course. It was a a prize as per usual. There will finished your shopping and are month and this year, so season’s great opportunity to play what be no cash payment on the day. ready for the festivities to begin, greetings to you all I hope to hear is sure to be a course that will Payments must be made up as I write this at the beginning more from you next year. hold tour events in the future so front and cheques made payable of November, I know that when Pete Maybury a big thank you to all who were to Ian Pemberton can be posted this is published I will not have [email protected] involved in setting up the day to Ian Pemberton, 6 Rosewood even given shopping a second telephone 07756001187 and for Rockliffe Hall GC and Court, Marton, Middlesbrough, thought. I hope those that are their staff for allowing us to play Cleveland, TS7 8QR and Ian can close to me are prepared for and making it a great day. be contacted on 07791695768. panic buy presents again this The results were as follows: This is a great day, and early year. 1. Dave Cuthbertson, 39pts booking is recommended as the I’m sure all who attended the (Must have been home advan- previous years have been very Christmas competition at Lin- tage!); 2. Ian Stuart, 33pts; 3. popular. It’s also a good oppor- drick GC will have had a good Garry Frazer, 31pts; 4. Ollie tunity for us “Parkland, meadow North West day; the results will be in next Shepard, 30pts; 5. Danny Simp- grass loving lads” to see what all month’s magazine. son, 29pts; 6. Ian Dunnerbie, the fuss is about on those alien Now December is with us, we I don’t know if any of you 28pts; 8. Graham Regan, 27pts; fescue greens! look back on all that has hap- are aware but Ron Ullathorne, 8. Ian Holoran, 26pts; 9. Tracey The spring tournament will pened in the past 12 months. a former Section Committee Maddison (Better back 9) 24pts; be held at Middlesbrough (Brass On a golfing front, the compe- member, who did a great amount 10. Alan Reid, 24pts. Castle) Golf Club on April 5, titions were as follows: of work for our Section has Nearest the Pin was won by 2011. More info will follow prior The summer tournament was recently had a new hip fitted. I Dave Cuthbertson, Longest to the event but be sure to get held at Blackpool North Shore hear that Ron is recovering well Drive was won by Baz Walker. in early as I am sure it will be a Golf Club, the competition and I’m sure you will all agree Best par 3s was won by Dave popular one. was won by Brian Turner. The that it will be good to see Ron Cuthbertson. Finally, the Last bit of news is from me. greens were very fast so many back attending Section events “Shortest Drive” booby prize was Just to say that I got married to thanks to Iain Gunn and his soon. won by Ian Pemberton. my girlfriend of 11 years, Selena, staff for the wonderful condition Once again the pay recom- The golf was followed by a on September 4. We had a great of the course and to the staff in mendations haven’t done us lovely meal. day and a fab honeymoon. the clubhouse for looking after any favours in getting a rise for Bottles and prizes were also That’s all for now us so well. 2011 - hopefully some golf club provided, in no particular order, Any news The autumn tournament Treasurers will take pity on us. from, Blade Amenity, Lloyd Ltd, Kevin Scarce 07921817857 took place at Bolton Old Links. Unfortunately that’s all I have Boxer Chemicals, Greenlay, [email protected] The sun shone on us, the winner this month. I hope you all have Sisis, Aitkens, Border Sports, was Kevin Sweeney. Bolton Old a fantastic Christmas and it’s a Claytons and Pinseeker. Thanks has magnificent views from better New Year for us all. the top and is a credit to Steve to all of the above for their con- Midland James Stevens Helmsley and his staff. Thanks tinual support of the Cleveland Jimmy_jams20@hotmail. Steve for a great day. Section during the golf events. com Two other events happening Finally, thanks as usual to 07738719614 in our Region were the Rigby Ian Pemberton for his efforts in

Taylor Classic, held at Wilmslow. planning and organising the golf

This was won by Ian Kirwan, days, and carrying out numer- of Widnes GC, and the BIGGA ous tasks during the day. Also Midland Whitelaw Bowl held at Penrith thanks to anyone who pitched GC. The winner of this event in to help out on the day. Our Autumn tournament escapes me at the moment, only The Cleveland Section AGM was held at the lovely venue that kidding Phil, With a massive 40 would have been and gone by is Beau Desert Golf Club and pts Phil Dewhurst, from Rigby Cleveland the time you read this news our greatest of thanks to them Taylor, was awarded the trophy. letter, I will provide info on the for allowing us the day. As this is the last edition for Hi everyone, hope you’re all meeting next time. The course was as expected in 2010 may I take this opportu- ok, fit and well. Terry Charlton’s Annual Quiz tip top condition in its entirety nity to wish you all a very happy Firstly, a big well done to Peter against the boys from the IOG as prepared by C.M. Steve Christmas and a prosperous Hibkiss, of Blackwell Grange GC will be taking place at Mount Mucklow and his obviously New Year from all the committee for achieving an NPTC Level 2 Oswald GC on December 9. I am expert team. in the NW Diploma. I believe Peter achieved told the start time is 7pm. This Very well done folks. Please feel free to contact us this a few months’ ago, but I quiz has been branded as the The main prize table was on [email protected] or didn’t get any news in because true Clash of the Titans, and is sponsored by Campey Turf

62 GI DECEMBER 2010 around The green

Care, our thanks to them. The Golf Club 1980-2010. been hollow cored only two results of the day were: Best The end of the year sees the days previous. Thanks also to Gross; Mike Hughes. Nett; 1. retirement of Mike Firman, the sponsor for the day, Tony Vince Gilroy. 2. Simon White. Course Manager of Olton Golf Kvedaras of Independent assistant 3. Richard Beacham. Division Club, a position he has held Turfkare Solutions. The medals winners; 1. Wayne Banner. 2. for 30 years. Mike followed his look great by the way! Profile Rhys Thomas. 3. Paul Jeffer- father Bill into greenkeeping Our annual golf and AGM ies. Trade; Tony Cheese. N.T.P. at Harbourne Golf Club before took place on October 14, at Our monthly look into the life Vince Gilroy, Keith Swan, Leigh going on to manage Shirley Louth Golf Club. A disappoint- of an assistant greenkeeper... Swann, and Steve Mucklow, Golf Club and then Edgbaston, ing turnout for the day, how- sponsored by Sherriff Amenity, and then taking on the helm ever, those who did play enjoyed name: Alex White Moss, and British Seed at Olton. I (Andy) served my a course in excellent condition Clarricoates Houses. apprenticeship under Mike and excellent hospitality from age: 18 For more years than I care becoming his Deputy, which set the clubhouse. Many thanks Club: Newark to remember the Midland me on my way in greenkeeping. also to LMS for sponsoring the GC Section has played an annual Mike was an excellent teacher day. The winners were as fol- Position: match against the East Mid- in the art of greenkeeping and lows, longest drive – Ian Collett; Assistant land Section, this year being a course manager ahead of his Nearest the Pin – Russ Moody; nickname: no exception. Such was played time. The lessons I learnt from 3rd – Robin Portess, Russ Clarrijackets/ at Stanton-on-the-Wolds Golf him have stood me and many Moody; 2nd – Ian Collett, Ian Lightning Club on October 14. After a other a greenkeeper in good Benn; 1st Rob Bemment, Phil good morning session the Mid- stead to this day. Our thanks. Wilkinson. 1. how long have you been lands took a slender one point Mike you are always welcome On October 21, our team of greenkeeping? lead into the afternoon singles, to pop-in for a brew anytime at Rob Bemment, Rob Welford Two years 3 points to 2. Unfortunately we Shirley and I’m sure that the and Ash Cox defended their could not hold on, and lost by rest of the section join me in Midland Region Inter-Section 2. What was it about the career the narrowest margin of 7 to 8. wishing you and your lovely Championship at Frilford that attracted you? I now know how the Americans wife, Jan, a well earned retire- Heath. They did this in style Working outside, seeing wildlife, must have felt at Celtic Manor! ment together. and once again came away learning how to maintain courses Many thanks to Tony Cheese My thanks to Andy, Rhys, victorious. Well done. and free golf! and Rigby Taylor for their hos- and Ed for the above. Our next golf day is the pitality, which was second to Wishing all a merry Christ- Christmas Bring and Win at 3. If you weren’t a greenkeeper none as always. Come on boys, mas. Sleaford Golf Club on Thurs- what do you think you’d be? if we continue to keep being Sean McDade day, December 16. Tee off at A full time golfer beaten each year we’ll end up 11am. Please contact Bruce known as the Silver Salver Hicks if you would like to play. 4. Which task do you most Section! All that is left to say is all the enjoy doing and why? Now for an apology for a best for Christmas and the New Construction because it is more clanger in last month’s Notes. I Year (that has come around hands on and it makes a change stated that the Christmas event quickly!) from cutting. at Woburn is to be sponsored east of england Hope everyone can make it to by Tacit when in fact such is to Harrogate. 5. Which task do you least be by Crocodile Golf. However Steve Beverly, Immingham Hello all. enjoy doing and why? Tacit has for many years spon- Golf Club. Apologies for the lack of an Raking bunkers because it takes sored our Christmas event and article in the last magazine, no forever. the Section thanks them for excuses, it completely slipped such. And the Section’s thanks my mind. However, when the 6. What one thing - other than to Crocodile Golf for this year’s entire future of your golf club is a pay rise - would improve the main prize table, and looking hanging by a thread then these greenkeepers’ lot? forward to reporting on the things happen. I am pleased More golfing results next month. Sorry for to say that through the over- east midlands any confusion to all. whelming support and gener- 7. hobbies? This month’s calendar page is osity of our small membership After a few quiet months Golf and football of the Wrekin Golf Club and the the short to mid-term future of the Section has been a hive Wrekin Hill can be seen on the the place is secure and with a of activity this month, so with 8. favourite band? distant left of the picture. As we lot of hard work so to will be the space limited I will get on! First S Club 7 all know “you must go around long term future. was the annual Midlands vs the Wrekin” however each year Anyway, plenty to report East Midlands match played 9. Which team do you support a charity run is organised to this month. Firstly the eagerly at Stanton on the Wolds GC. (football or otherwise)? go over such. To avoid going anticipated Greenkeepers vs This match has been likened Nottingham Forest “Around the Houses” for your Trade match took place on to the Ryder cup - only BIGGA! top dressings etc please see September 22, at Lincoln Golf Sorry! With the East Midlands 10. What is your claim to fame? this month’s calendar spon- Club, Torksey. This year the recording four consecutive Played football at Grantham sors Whitemoss: www.white- Trade managed to turn out a victories the midlands came Town football stadium mosseco.co.uk or call the Greenkeepers came away and after winning the morning Mike Whitehouse on: 07795 Want to appear as an with a satisfying 4 – 2 victory. fourballs were in pole position. 395 669. Assistant Profile? Many thanks go to all the staff However, a spirited fight back And finally a few words from at Torksey, especially Adi and in the afternoon singles saw the our Section Secretary, Andy To receive a questionaire, his greenstaff for producing a contest come down to the last Smith: email [email protected] course in excellent condition match played by yours truly, Mike Firman Retires-Olton despite the fact the greens had let’s just say a nervy last hole

DECEMBER 2010 GI 63 Around The Green saw the East midlands retain 18 hole course, born from the Thanks to Tim for making workshops. A workshop titled the trophy 8-7. Thanks to Dan vision of the previous land- the long trip from Lincoln to BUDGETING & PLANNING, this Branson and his team at Stan- owner, farmer.The whole of the Cornwall and for a very interest- would be made available to you, ton for his efforts on the course, back nine has views across St ing presentation. Once again, again a date and venue would be it was in fantastic condition. Austell Bay and the Clubhouse thanks to Porthpean Golf Club organised around you guys. The Autumn competition at has fantastic position looking for their kind hospitality and in As I continue to talk about Hinckley and AGM followed a across the bay too. The 18 hole particular Andrew and David for education, Harrogate Week week later, the format was three course is maintained by two all their hard work. Thank you is almost with us. Looking man teams, the competition was staff, Andrew Prouse, Head for a fantastic day! through the manual, it looks as sponsored by Sherriff Amenity, Greenkeeper, and David Daw, Our next meeting will be our though we have a brilliant range British Seed Houses, Boughton First Assistant. The Golf course “Christmas meeting” at Saunton of courses this time. Harrogate Loam and Tacit. Although way- was in great condition and very Golf Club, North Devon. The day Week is extremely important to ward off the tee I saw enough well presented. It is a popular will consist of Golf or a Course our industry. Ensure you show off the course to say it was in course in the area with 100 walk, followed by a three course your support this year by doing excellent condition and a good new members joining this year. Christmas lunch and after your very best to attend. By day was had by all. The winners The Course is testament to the dinner entertainment. If you attending in January will ensure were the team of Nigel Colley, dedication, passion and com- haven’t already contacted me to we get to go the following year Craig Watt, and Gary Thurman mitment of both Andrew and secure your place, then please and the year after and again the with a score of 76 points. Other David, both of whom regularly do so soon as it is anticipated to year after that...... winners were Nigel Colley (near- attend our BIGGA meetings be a very popular meeting. Remember that we also have est the pin in two) Carl Cham- within the Section. To back this George Pitts our own South West Section berlain (nearest the pin) and Lee up, 60 attendees enjoyed a fan- Section Secretary facebook page, proving to be very Wenlock (longest drive). tastic day with approximately 40 07929 754401 useful, only for it grow as more At the AGM, after two years attending a course walk led by [email protected] of you become involved. If you current Chairman Nick Miles Andrew, who gave a very inter- are not a member of the page, stepped down, he will remain on esting and eye-opening account its time you were, ask more for the committee as regional rep- of the trials and tribulations of the link and ill happily forward resentative, and he is sincerely maintaining a golf course at this it to you. thanked for all his hard work end of the market, with few and As 2010 comes to an end, I as Chairman. As a result I was at times no resources to work would like to thank each and appointed Section Chairman, with! I know Andrew was very South West every one of you guys for all your and in replacement to Nigel nervous and apprehensive lead- help and support throughout Colley, who had stepped down ing up to the day, but all those the year. I can only do what I What a great time we had at earlier in the year, Greg Skinner who attended said that Andrew do because you guys allow me Worlebury GC for our Section’s was appointed Vice Chairman. gave a very real and professional to, I hope that we can continue AGM. The course was in fantas- Andy de Wet continues as Sec- account of himself on the course this for 2011. As an industry, tic condition, a great credit to tion Secretary and Treasurer, walk. Well done Andrew! we really have had an amazing Jaime Acton and all his staff! with myself and Greg Skinner The rest of us played golf with year! Paul Garland will hopefully continuing to organise training the format for the day being Something that I would like to remember to bring everything and write the magazine articles, Individual Stableford playing add in each news letter is a little with him next time, forgetting finally Carl Chamberlain will for the Toro Cup, supplied by joke, however I need your help your trousers for the evening remain as trade representative. DGM and Toro. The winner on with this because I’m not the and having to wear your golfing Finally you will soon be the day was none other than greatest with jokes, “Golf...... ones isn’t the best look...... but having invites for the Christmas David Daw, Porthpean GC, with the only time it’s acceptable for on a more serious note, it was competition to be played at 41pts, much ribbing followed! a man to hold an iron.” Remem- brilliant to see so many of you The Nottinghamshire Golf and In second was Anthony James ber, your turn next month! attend, thanks people! Country Club (formally known (Jacko), Killiow GC, with 39pts, Keep talking to me, keep tell- The prizes were as followed, as Cotgrave Place), this is a and in third was “yours truly” ing what you’re thinking, what nearest the pin at the 2nd Allen great event and there should be with 34pts. Longest Drive on you what...... and we’ll do it for Smith and at the 12th Simon a guest speaker, so come along the 6th was won by Gordon you. Rattenbury. The overall winners, and support your Section. Tamblyn, Mullion GC. Nearest adam.l.matthews@hotmail. 3. Ed “The Duck” Parsloe, 39 pts; Regards to all the Pin on the 11th was won by co.uk 2. Allen Smith, 42 pts and after Pete Smith Kevin Pitts, Fingle Glen. Adam Matthews count back our winner was, Many thanks to our sponsors 07732503855 Stuart Broom. Well done guys. for the day, “Scotts” and “Devon While on the subject of golf days, South West and Garden Machinery”, for their Lansdown is our next stopping support and for supplying the South Wales point, Thursday, December 16. prizes. After lunch, Tim Fell, See you all there! Managing Director of Tillers I would just like to bring to your Turf, gave a very interesting attention some training course Educational presentation on that will be made available to South Wales “Large-scale commercial turf you very soon. Tractor spray- production”. Tim talked about ing, Chainsaw and Excavator Hi Everyone the scale of the processes needed training courses are what you First, a report on recent activi- Devon and Cornwall to produce the volume, variety guys are asking for. Dates and ties in the section: and quality of turf required. venues are yet to be arranged, On Thursday, October 14 the Hello all! Now we are fully in Tim also touched on some of this will determine interest from Section’s Autumn golf meeting to our season of events. Our the projects they have been yourselves (you tell us when you was held at Brynhill Golf Club. A November meeting was held at involved in including supplying want and where you want it and good turnout found the course Porthpean Golf Club near St to Wentworth for their recent we’ll do our best to ensure this in excellent condition, which Austell, Cornwall, on Thursday, redevelopment and projects in happens). Also Laurence Pithie was a credit to Iain Grant and his November 4. A relatively new the Far East. would like to invite you to his staff. The only let down that day

64 GI DECEMBER 2010 Around The Green was the weather, which was cold Firstly, Don Chillery, who was Well done Mark! there were no takers at the time, and overcast. The results of the formerly Head Greenkeeper at Finally, I have said some cruel but the offer still stands if any- golfing action were as follows: both Caerphilly GC and finally remarks about my beautiful body out there is interested we 1. John Bevan, Cradoc, 36pts; Radyr GC before retiring to Car- wife, Donna, in recent columns. would love to hear from you just 2. Jamie Probert, Pontardawe, digan in the ‘90s. Don was also So let me just say that she is a contact anyone of the committee 35pts; 3. Mel Leach, Glynhir a sales representative for Fisons wonderful wife and she has just and we will get back to you. GC, 33pts. Nearest the Pin. a long time ago. I met Don on brought me a bacon roll! Good A great deal of discussion Stuart Douglas; Longest Drive. a few occasions and he was a thing that I heard her walking then took place on the future of Jamie Probert. Trade prize: Peter consummate professional and a up the stairs, as I was wrapping our golf days and how we can get Lacey. Farmura Environmental, gentleman to boot! her Christmas present at the the numbers up. The commit- 38pts I also learned of the death of time. Good thing ironing boards tee were given a lot of ideas but Our thanks go out to Brynhill Bill Hardiman MBE. Bill was fit easily under beds! again if any of you guys have any Golf Club for allowing us cour- Head Groundsman at the old That’s all for now! Have a specific thoughts on how we can tesy of the course, to Iain Grant Arms Park and a keen and great Christmas and a prosper- improve your day any get more and his team for presenting a loyal IOG man, becoming vice ous new year! Nadolig Llawen a people along we would love to great golf course, to the caterers President for the South Wales blwyddyn newydd dda! hear from you. for an excellent meal and to club Section. Like Don, Bill was a Ceri Richards captain for helping to present gentleman who always had time I would like to welcome Rob the prizes provided by the day’s for people. He was also proud of Willis and Tom Baker to Remedy, sponsors, David Evans, of DEAL his Valleys roots and was Head joining me from Canford Magna Machinery, local agents for Ran- Groundsman of the cricket and Dudsbury Golf Clubs somes Jacobsen. A big thank pitch at Pontypridd park many respectively good luck guys. If you to them. moons ago! Our condolences go you know of any others on the Also held at this event was out to their families as they will South Coast move please let me know and I the Section AGM. It was a quiet be sadly missed. will tell the Section. affair, apart from Steve Chap- I have also just heard that Iain On a sad note our long serving Good Day Fellow Greenkeep- pell’s ‘Bob Flemming from The Grant’s mother passed away treasurer, Fred Deaman, has ers. Fast Show’ type coughing fit! I recently, so our condolences to been made redundant after his As I sit and write this, we have think it was the infamous ‘Celtic Iain and his family. club, Alton Golf Club, shut their just had 40 mm of rain in the Cough’ that inflicted so many of The Christmas Competition doors and ceased trading. I am last 48 hours, those who worked at the Ryder will be held on Thursday, Decem- sure you will all join me in wish- a lovely welcome back from a Cup! As a result Chairman, Paul ber 16, at Royal Porthcawl GC. ing Fred the very best of luck week in South Africa as a Guest Handy, stepped in and not only Tee off time is 10.30am. Invites in the future whatever path you of Ransomes Jacobsen, one of chaired the AGM, but also acted should be with you by now. Cost choose to follow. the best EDUCATIONAL trips as MC for the evening as well. of the day is £20. If you haven’t Just a quick reminder for of my life with the temperature And a fine job you did as well had one and wish to attend the the Turkey Trot at Barton on topping 32 degrees. Paul! The only news of note to please give Steve Chappell a ring December 13, see you there. Lovely! come from the AGM being the as it’s a great chance to play a Robert Hogarth The Autumn outing was voting on to committee of Ian top links course, and have a 07879 424737 played in terrific sunshine over Kinley, of Royal Porthcawl, and Christmas dinner and all for [email protected] Broadstone Golf Club, the golf Gareth Knight, of Trefloyne GC, £20! course was in fantastic shape replacing Julian Bartlett Jones, Also, I believe that the Section a real credit to Ade Archer and as Regional Board Member. is planning to send a fact finding his staff. I had the pleasure of South East The Rigby Taylor Matchplay delegation to Porthcawl town in playing with Ade and Colin Hutt tournament was held at Tre- the evening in the hope of sam- on the day and all I will say is floyne GC on October. As you pling the many types of beverage Ade don’t give up the day job to know, it has been a different that can be purchased at the become a caddie. format this year with 4 teams local taverns and to sample the A big thank you to all at of two qualifying for the final. food from various exotic coun- Broadstone from the Section First, the semis were held with tries such as China, India and who helped make for a great East Anglia Andrew Roach/Gareth Knight Turkey. Ask for details. day especially the Captain and and Darryl Jones/Steve Chap- Spare a thought also for Dean Council who allowed us courtesy An overcast day with an pell winning their respective Thomas, Head Greenkeeper at of your excellent golf course. And autumnal feel greeted the happy matches. Then the final was held Pennard GC, where some of the not forgetting our sponsor for wanderers, about fifty in number in the afternoon with Andrew and greens and tees were vandalised the day Rigby Taylor. to Saffron Walden. A bacon roll Gareth winning a closely fought recently. Dean has just had some We had a great turn out for and a cup of coffee was all that contest which was finally settled soil tests back from the STRI and this day with over 45 members was needed to set them off into on the 17th. Darryl Jones won have shown Glyphosate and a taking part the results were as the great unknown. It must be the Nearest the Pin competition small amount of Paraquat in follows: about ten years or more since we and Rob Williams won Longest the samples. Dean has already Cat. 0-14. 1. T. Gadd, 36pts; were last there and it was nice to Drive. All were then treated to done a valiant job of overseeding 2. T. Crouch, 35pts; C. Pardley, be back. the tremendous hospitality that recently and some of the local 34pts. Cat. 15-28 1. A. Smith Just how nice it was, was Trefloyne provides courtesy of clubs, Langland Bay and Mor- 35pts, 2. S. Justice, 34pts; 3. C. reflected in the scores which the guys from Rigby Taylor. So riston, have kindly loaned them Hutt, 34pts, are as follows:- 0 – 9 Handicap thanks to Trefloyne GC for host- some germination sheets. So Two’s B. Davies and S. Rid- 1. Matt Gill, 40pts; 2. James ing the event and to Rigby Taylor good luck Dean, I’m sure that land Burton, 37pts; 3. Richard South- for agreeing to sponsor the event greenkeepers everywhere will We held the Section AGM after all, 35pts. 10-18 Handicap. 1. again this year. sympathise with your situation. the golf and a number of topics Glen Rayfield, 36pts; 2. David Now some sad news. I just Good luck to Mark Wilshire, were discussed Farmer, 35pts; 3. Ben Pearson, heard that two well known currently of Newport GC, who Tony advised the meeting 31pts. 19-28 handicap. (Only people from the turf industry is soon to become Head Green- that there was a place on the seven entrants so prizes for first have recently passed away. keeper at Wenvoe Castle GC. committee for anyone interested two only) 1. Adrian Goode, 39pts;

DECEMBER 2010 GI 65 Around The Green

2. Andy Baker, 32pts. Guest & Unfortunately, a number of With no hesitation, I willingly holiday in Istanbul. Flying out Trade. 1. J. Wright, 37pts; 2. D. clubs have succumbed to the agreed but it was not my day of Stansted in late October the Duffell, 36pts. Longest Drive:. weight of the financial respon- and my indifferent golf did not leaves on the trees were a lovely Mike Buck. Nearest the Pin. sibilities and we can only wish help my playing partner, Adie shade of green, returning just Steve Coona. Loo Seat Recipi- that their employees are able to Locke. We lost our match to one week later and they had ent. Edward Clarkson for find work quickly and that the our very competent opponents, turned to the beautiful autumn running over his own clubs in clubs eventually find buyers. Steve Holmes and Posh Jim colors that we all love to see but the car park; (ouch!) I don’t want this column to Russell. The Scottish team won hate at the same time, as it now The Captain and Greenkeeper be too downbeat, however, as 4 and 2 and many congratula- means we have a lot of clearing Shield was won by Mike Buck we are coming up to Christmas tions to them for winning the up to do. and J Wright with 70 points. after all. By the time you read Shield for the first time this As this year draws to a close, Runners up were David this, we shall have just played century. John Ross made the our Chairman, Mark Stopps, Farmer and D. Duffell with 68 our Turkey Trot and held our speech on behalf of Scotland committee and members of points. AGM at Birchwood. At the time and as his accent had no hint the Essex Section would like The day was sponsored by of writing, there are quite a lot of of a Gaelic lilt, his expletives and to thank the sponsors of our Lely UK. applicants to join us on the day ungentlemanly hand gestures Section for the support and help Other prizes were from Ben so I hope you all enjoyed it! We were well understood by all. that has been received from Burgess, Tomlinson Ground have a full events programme Tony Bremer’s speech on behalf them this year. Care, Symbio, Rigby Taylor, Bar- booked up for next year and a of England on the other hand The following companies have tram Mowers, Aitkens, Scotts, couple of changes with a summer was dignified in defeat and any supported the section over the Baileys of Norfolk, Headland, pairs knockout tournament and indecorous reference to Haggis past year. Tacit, Sheriff, Collier Turf Care, a ‘Golfer of the Year’ trophy for all Eaters and Bagpipe Players was Advantage Environmental, CMW and Ransomes Jacobsen. to contend. Please see website merely friendly banter. Avoncrop Amenity Products, Prizes were presented by Nick for all the details. Thursday October 14. Three Bailey’s of Norfolk, Banks Ame- Baker, Club Captain. I would like to take this Rivers GC, in Essex, was the nity Products, Billericay Farm The course was presented by opportunity to thank our loyal venue for the Surrey v Sussex v Services, Blade Amenity, B.M.S. Ray Goodshal and his team in sponsors for the very generous Essex annual Three Section golf Chaingreen Ltd (Sea Nymph), very fine shape – (the course that support they have provided match. I am pleased to report CMW Equipment Ltd, Collier is). us this year. Especially in the that Surrey were victorious, Turf Care, Ernest Doe & Sons We must also thank Clive light of the business climate Essex were runners up and Ltd, Fieldfare Amenity, GM Ame- Osgood, our BIGGA representa- highlighted at the start of this Sussex, the team for which I nity, Golf Mats UK, Grasshopper tive, for showing up. He never piece. They’re contribution to played, came third. Next year it Horticultural Ltd, Headland misses (unlike me) – Well done this section enables us to not is unlikely that I will be available Amenity Products, Limagrain Clive. only attend a number of courses to play in team events, so please UK, Old Forge Mowers, Prime The food was lovely, so thank a year at a subsidised rate, but don’t ask as my clubs are now Irrigation, Rainbird, Rigby you Saffron Walden; see you in also helps provide an educa- resident in the Solent after fall- Taylor Ltd, Scotts Professional, 10 years. tion programme to be proud of. ing off the Isle of Wight ferry. Tey Farm Services, P. Tuckwell It’s the big one next:- Thorpe- Thank you to all and I shall be Sunday November 8 - 5 pm. Ltd, Writtle College. ness Turkey Trot –December writing to you all again soon! and just back from a long week- We have all had a busy time 15– be there. Due to the reces- I would also like to say end with all the family in Stud- at work this past month the sion and the price of Christmas farewell and good luck to our land Bay, Dorset. Yesterday, Section’s Knockout Trophy puddings, the cost of the day will Association’s Chief Executive, Saturday, was sunny, windless final, plus the Triangular Match be £30 and it’s not buy one get Mr John Pemberton, who has and the perfect weather for a against Sussex and Surrey. one free! tirelessly fought the cause of the long country walk through the Ten members from our Sec- Mick Lathrope downtrodden greenkeepers for local boggy heathland, then on tion joined with ten each from a very long time. He leaves some to Studland Bay beach for the Sussex and Surrey to play the very big shoes to fill. last mile home. The Naturist annual Triangular. Lastly, on behalf of Kev Morris beach section seemed empty of Held this year in our Section, and myself, I would like to wish sun-worshippers until the last the match over 18 holes at Three you all a very happy Christmas 50 yards, and then we saw him Rivers Golf and Country Club, and a prosperous new year. lying in all his glory and oblivi- it was hard fought affair with Kent Best of British one and all, ous to all onlookers. He was an Sussex coming out on top with Rob Holland older man and aptly described a score of 252 from Essex with www.kentgreenkeepers.com by my son-in-law as ’all under- 278 and Surrey a little further I can’t believe we’ve come to carriage and no gun’. He was back with 289. Nearest the Pins the end of another year. This not there the next day, for the were Gary Ogilvie (Sussex) 9th has, without doubt, been one temperature had dropped some hole and Kevin Boxall (Surrey) of the most difficult years from 10 degrees, too cold even for the 16th Hole, Longest Drive on the a business point of view. What bravest of the brave. 3rd Kevin Boxall. The match with the much talked about Brian Willmott was run off at a fast pace with global recession which has everyone back in the club in affected everything not being Surrey 3.50 minutes, damp conditions bad enough, we were also hit on a cold day, with the course in by several weeks of snow at the Tuesday November 2. Han- autumn condition greeted the start of the year compounding kley Common GC was excellent players (images on the website). the financial burden to break- today and welcomed again the Our thanks to Ernest Doe & ing point for many. I suppose annual England v Scotland Golf Sons and to Andy Turbin for England’s failure to turn up for Extravaganza. I had not been Essex sponsoring the day, Andy also the World Cup in South Africa selected, but a late English played for our team and then minimised the expected lean cancellation meant that Tony This month has flown by; I presented the prizes after the period on our courses during the Bremer, the English Captain, have attended a Regional and fine meal put on by the club. summer but we were still on the had little option but to phone me National Board meeting and been Our thanks for the courtesy of back foot for much of the season. yesterday and beg me to play. away for a week’s photographic

66 GI DECEMBER 2010 Around The Green the course go to Terry Peachey some more changes and add the owner of Three Rivers and to some more features. the club house and greens staff Next month’s report will be for looking after us so well. of the Winter Team Event and The London Club was the AGM which by the time you read venue for the Knockout final this will have just past. John between Ray Clark, Channels, If you have any news for the & Jon Selwood, Avoncrop, and website or for GK International Pemberton their opponents, Dougie Fernie please contact me on 07764- & Bill Maynard, Upminster 862.337 or via e-mail essex- Chief GC. Due to Ray being unable to [email protected] Executive attend at the last moment, Jon Arnold Phipps-Jones unfortunately had to play the Press Officer match on his own. December already and as the calendar marches on our Played on the International Chairman’s Word sights in the office fix not just on Christmas, but also on Course at the London Club, the (continued from page 13) BIGGA’s annual event at Harrogate in January. This year is match was played off in fine but ...You have lots of opportuni- no different to any other in that respect, the pressure is on cool weather, with the course ties to meet new people and the Sales Team to sell the last few remaining stands and we in a nice condition, there were helping to organise events and are all eagerly watching the numbers rise on the bookings some nice but tough Par 3s, influencing outcomes can look for the education and social programme. with some other very stunning very good on your CV. It can make Meanwhile the daily life in BIGGA HOUSE must continue, holes and the course was well you more promotable. It can help Membership Renewals and Applications to be processed, a appointed with water hazards. you to have more influence over magazine to write and design, advertising to sell, numbers Jon reported that Dougie played the way the association is run to be crunched, papers to be pushed around, emails to his socks off with long irons and at local, regional, national and be dealt with. While the turnover may be relatively small fairway woods peppering the international level. compared to some businesses it often surprises me when I flag at every opportunity. Again it is a free seminar but stop and think about things, just how much work goes into Jon managed to hold his own places are limited so please make making the Association function. The diversity of activities up until the 11th but then it sure you register early by contact- is what makes the Association tick. slowly slipped away in the final ing Sami or Rachael at BIGGA Times may be difficult in this country in general, and few holes, too lose to Dougie and HQ or download, complete let’s make no mistake BIGGA is feeling the effect of the Bill by 5 & 4. Well done to both and send off the booking form. recession, but it is by no means in financial trouble. Having teams for getting through to the Both these free seminars will be read a recent posting on the Bulletin Board it seems that final and well done to Dougie hosted by conference favourite the end is nigh. Not so believe you me. The profit for the year and Bill for a fine win. Frank Newberry whose ‘Moving to the end of June 2010 was after all a profit and not a loss. The Essex Section wishes to into Management’ Workshop on This year so far we are ahead of budget, so more good news. thank Peter Todd for arranging 16th and 17th January 2011 Let’s celebrate our successes and look at what we have built the match and the London Club has already sold out nearly three BIGGA into rather than dwell on the downturn and get for there kind hospitality and months in advance. depressed. courtesy of the course. That’s not to say that we should be over confident and Our Chairman has been a Silence is unlikely to ignore the trials and tribulations that we all face in 2011. busy boy over the past weeks, advance this great Next year will be tough, there is no doubt about it in my totally changing the 14th hole at profession mind, and BIGGA will need to do some careful strategic Bentley Golf Club, he’s removed planning in order to maintain the current level of service to that tree which has caused so In the meantime – to quote its Membership and the Industry. many of us problems over the a well-known supermarket As we head towards the end of 2010 I would like to years and adding another prob- – ‘Every little Helps’. May I ask personally thank the Staff at BIGGA HOUSE (and let’s not lem by enhancing and enlarging you to contact your local BIGGA forget that this includes the four Regional Administrators) the pond to the left of the green. official and tell him or her just for all the help and support that they have given me during Then adding mounds to the what is on your mind? Perhaps the year. rear of the green and extend- you have some ideas they can We have faced many challenges together and come ing a ditch to the right of the use to boost local participation. through all the stronger for it and their dedication to the approach. I for one look forward Perhaps you could give them advancement of the Association is only equalled by the to seeing the new style hole in some feedback on what they have efforts of the volunteers within the Sections, Regions and the near future. been doing. Perhaps you could the National Board, without whom BIGGA would not be Last month Geoff Smith, give the Board some feedback. where it is today, at the forefront of a very specialist industry Course Manager at Abridge Perhaps you could give me some and a role model for others. Golf Club, successfully climbed feedback. Whatever is on your My remaining time with BIGGA is slowly being counted Mount Kilimanjaro for charity, mind please say it - rather than down but I assure members that I will continue to strive to well done to him and I hope to be silent. Silence is unlikely to ensure its success. I wish you all a Merry Christmas and have a full report in a coming advance this great profession! may Good Luck and Good Fortune come your way in 2011. issue of this magazine. In the meantime – have a Bad weather has hit the South great Christmas and New Year. East as I write this, with wind I’ll be writing again in January and rain driving the temperature which will be my last posting in down. Looks like we are in for a the magazine as your Chairman. long hard winter this year. 2010 may have been difficult - Please look out for a new look let’s make 2011 a better year. I website in the early part of Janu- am hoping for better results and ary, hopefully I will have time better progress for our profession John Pemberton over the Christmas period to get – much better. Chief Executive some work done on it and make Paul Worster

DECEMBER 2010 GI 67 membership Tracey maddison, head of membership, provides a departmental update

bIgga Turf management To steal the title of a well-known exhibition (bTme) 2011 BBC1 TV Show – it is the ONE SHOW bIgga welcomes the to attend in 2011 and with FREE following new members… Important dates for your diary – entry and a simple advance registra- Tuesday 18 – Thursday 20 January tion process, it is easy. Register at scotland 2011. www.harrogateweek.org.uk. Contact Details Rhys Davies, Central It will soon be here (where has this Don’t forget to stop by the BIGGA Bryan Grieve, Central Tracey Maddison year gone?)...Europe’s largest turf Stand (Hall C Stand 46) and have a Steve McRae, North [email protected] Chris Watson, North management exhibition. chat with the BIGGA Staff. We would northern region Brad Anderson Be one of 6,000 valuable visitors welcome any feedback you have on John Bevan, North Wales [email protected] Arran Jackson, North West to descend on the pretty town of membership issues, learning and Martin Lee, North Wales tel: 01347 833800 Harrogate, that is 6,000 individuals development in fact anything you Brian Morris, North West (option 1 for Membership) Barry Wright, North Wales who all have one thing in common - want to give feedback on! Or just Midland region a passion for turf. stop by to say ‘hello’. Nicholas Burman, Mid Anglia Lucas Davis, East Midland Regional Offices Join visitors from around the We will have the facility to renew Nick Jones, Berks/Bucks & Oxon Laurie Owen, Mid Anglia world to attend an education event, membership, take applications from Max Sullivan, Midland Scotland & new members wishing to join and Alan Wright, Berks/Bucks & Oxon northern Ireland which many industries can only Peter Boyd envy and an exhibition packed with where necessary issue membership tel: 0141 616 3440 south east region Mobile: 07776 242120 experts showcasing the latest turf cards. Come along and see what’s [email protected] care technologies. on offer in 2011. Darren Breen, London Liam Close, East Anglia northern & Midland Phillip Copsey, Kent Peter Larter new for 2011 The bIgga social night – Jason Cox, Sussex tel: 01476 550115 Charles Gobie, London Mobile: 07866 366966 Tuesday, January 18 Billy Maynard, Essex [email protected] Ian Plummer, Sussex • Turf Managers’ Conference, Steven Smith, Kent Sean Whipp, Surrey South East promising to attract Course Manag- For the last two years the social Clive Osgood ers and Head Greenkeepers from far night has been ‘great fun’, ‘entertain- south West/south Wales tel: 01737 819343 ing’ and ‘worthwhile’ according to Mobile: 07841 948410 and wide. region [email protected] • A specifically devised develop- those who have already experienced ment seminar for Assistant Green- them and 2011 plans to be no dif- Richard Japes, Devon & Cornwall South West & Wales Matthew Mackenzie, South West Jane Jones keepers where key skills required for ferent with the theme being a beer Daniel Robinson, South Coast tel: 01454 270850 festival. Drew Van Der Niet, South Coast Mobile: 07841 948110 workplace communication and team James Yeates, South West [email protected] working are high on the agenda. This will take place at the Old International • The NEW Envirozone, from rain Swan Hotel on Tuesday, January Alan Neale, Spain water to harvesting to power opti- 18 2011 starting at 7pm until misation, this new exhibition area 10.30pm. The evening will provide For more information on new promises to showcase the very latest a great opportunity to sample local members log in to the Members’ Peter Boyd Peter Larter green developments. beers and catch up with friends and Area of the BIGGA Website. • Enhanced Personal Develop- industry colleagues, whilst listening ment Zone (PD Zone) providing an to live music and filling up on the hot invaluable resource for any sports buffet meal! Tickets are now on sale turf professional who is looking to (£25 + VAT per ticket), contact the Clive osgood Jane Jones gain careers advice or inspiration. office 01347 833800 to ensure your finally Featuring experts in the field of ticket to a fabulous enjoyable and greenkeeping, careers assistance entertaining evening. Help your Association grow by and consultancy there is a wealth of sharing the value of your BIGGA specialist advice available through- Past articles membership with your friends and out the three days. colleagues and encourage them to • More FREE seminars on offer. Personal Finance Planning – GI join. oTher July 2010; How to Guides…. – GI Every time you recruit a new useful Whatever your reason for visiting September 2010; Membership member, you strengthen BIGGA. numbers BTME 2011, you will be guaranteed renewal online – GI October 2010; Wishing you all a very Merry (Full Members only) one thing – you will expand your net- Continue to Learn 2011 – GI Novem- Christmas and a Happy New Year Personal Accident Helpline work. This is a brilliant opportunity ber 2010. from the BIGGA Staff. 02075 603013 to sound out the minds of those who We would like to take this Greenkeepers Legal Assistance have already been there, gained the follow us on facebook opportunity of thanking you all 0800 177 7891 experience and been at the face of Greenkeepers Support for your input, feedback, help and Services the good and the bad in the industry, Search for British and Interna- encouragement but mostly for your 0800 174 319 pick their brains, there is no point in tional Golf Greenkeepers Associa- Debt Counselling Helpline support, thank you and here’s to 0800 174319 re-inventing the wheel! tion then join the BIGGA Group. 2011.

68 GI DECEMBER 2010 Diary of events Details of your section’s forthcoming events in 2010 can be found here...

Date event Venue Contact

DECEMBER Wednesday December North Wales Section Event Mile End Golf Club Jeremy Hughes at [email protected] or 07876 1st and AGM 776265 Wednesday December Bring Life Back to Your Soil Ratho Park Golf Club, Polly at Symbio at [email protected] or 01428 1st Edinburgh 685762 Thursday December North West Section AGM & Wilmslow Golf Club Phil Dewhurst on mobile: 07768 180604 2nd Bert Cross Trophy Thursday December Bring Life Back to Your Soil Dinsdale Spa Golf Club, Polly at Symbio at [email protected] or 01428 2nd Darlington 685762 Thursday December Bring Life Back to Your Soil Laverstoke Laboratory, Polly at Symbio at [email protected] or 01428 2nd Overton, Hamps 685762 Tuesday December Surrey Section AGM Guildford Golf Club Ron Christie at [email protected] or 7th 07778 170077 Wednesday December BB&O Section Turkey Trot Oxfordshire Golf Club Adam King at [email protected] or 01235 543119 8th and AGM Wednesday December Bring Life Back to Your Soil Tottenham Hotspur Polly at Symbio at [email protected] or 01428 8th Football Club, London 685762 Thursday December East Midlands Section Cotgrave Place Golf and Andrew de Wet at [email protected] 9th Christmas Tournament Country Club or 07730 713895 Thursday December Terry Charlton’s Christ- Mount Oswold Golf Ian Pemberton at [email protected] or 9th mas Quiz – Cleveland Club 07791 695768 Section Thursday December Bring Life Back to Your Soil Hadley Wood Golf Club, Polly at Symbio at [email protected] or 01428 9th Barnet, Herts 685762 Wednesday December East Anglia Section Turkey Thorpeness Golf Club Ian Willett at [email protected] or 07929 15th Trot & AGM 205398 Wednesday December Cleveland Section – Bring Cleveland Golf Club Ian Pemberton at [email protected] or 15th a Bottle Golf Day 07791 695768 Wednesday December Mid Anglia Christmas Ashridge Golf Club Gerald Bruce at [email protected] or 15th Meeting 07774 921606 Thursday December East of England Section Sleaford Golf Club Bruce Hicks at [email protected] or 07931 16th Event 569158 Thursday December South West Section Lansdown Golf Club Adam Matthews at adam.l.matthews@hotmail. 16th Christmas Event co.uk or 07732 503855

Harrogate Week JANUARY 2011 The ultimate turf management exhibition in Europe

Sunday 16th to Continue to Learn, Harrogate International Rachael Duffy at [email protected] or 01347 Thursday 20th Harrogate Centre, Harrogate 833800 or book places at www.bigga.org.uk/ January events and select Jan 2011 from the browse events calendar. Tuesday 18th to BIGGA Turf Management Harrogate International Register to attend at www.harrogateweek.org.uk Thursday 20th Exhibition (BTME), Centre, Harrogate and select REGISTER NOW! From the options on Harrogate the left hand side.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 69 presents... Harrogate Week 2011 presents... THE BIGGA BEER FESTIVAL th Tuesday 1818 january 2011 For more info or PM to pm to BOOK TICKETS 7 10.30 CONTACT RACHEL The Old Swan Hotel, OR ANGELA ON Harrogate 01347 833800 DRESS CODE: Smart/CASUAL Featuring Live Music

BIGGA regional Conferences All forthcoming conferences are as follows...

rEGIon DAtE LoCAtIon For FurTher deTails, conTacT...

Scotland 1 March 2011 Carnegie Conference Peter Boyd, Regional Administrator, 0141 616 3440 Centre, Dunfermline north To be announced To be announced Peter Larter, Regional Administrator, 01476 550115 Midlands To be announced To be announced Peter Larter, Regional Administrator, 01476 550115

70 GI DECEMBER 2010 intheshed Our monthly puzzle page to keep you entertained when you’re forced indoors

CrossWorD QuICK ‘nIne hole’ QuIZ

Who’s Who?

1. Who is the Chancellor of the Exchequer? 2. Who is the England Cricket Coach? 3. Who is Director General of the BBC? 4. Who is the Poet Laureate? 5. Who is Chief Executive of the European Tour? 6. Who is President of UEFA? ? 7. Who is General Secretary of the Who’s TUC? 8. Who is The Stig? 9. Who is the Mayor of London? Who?

monsTer suDoKu Fill in the grid so aCross DoWn that every row, every column and every 4x4 box contains the 2 The Baggy Greens (7) 1 Friends actor (7,5) numbers 0 to 9 and 3 The study of God and 10 Disgusting (7) the letters A to E. divinity (8) 11 Natural, usually outdoor 4 All time (4) detox treatment (3,4) 5 A small, fluffy type of dog 12 Disney’s The Little (10) Mermaid (5) 6 Naturally occurring 13 Fresh out the box (5-3) radioactive gas (5) 15 A task undertaken at the 7 A wisher and a wanter (7) request of another (10) 8 Actor who played Prince 16 Name of David Edmund Plantagenet in The Beckham’s third child (4) Black Adder (5,8) suDoKu Fill in the grid so 18 Snoozes (4) 9 1939 film featuring the song Follow the Yellow Brick that every row, every 20 The smallest country in Road (3,6,2,2) column and every 9 Central America (2,8) 14 Putting in (10) box shape contains the numbers 1 to 9. 22 The key addictive additive 17 On the next page (8) in cigarettes (8) 19 Composer of Turandot 24 Renee ____, Thomas and Tosca (7) Crown Affair actress (5) 21 Wished (7) 26 Japanese paper-folding 23 A decorated coronet, art (7) typically worn by females (5) Puzzle 27 TTFN (7) 25 Yellowy-brown colour, answers 28 Leading actor of the TV similar to beige (4) on series Hornblower (4,8) page 81

DECEMBER 2010 GI 71 bIgga student membership greenkeeping can offer you a career for life and a lifetime of learning

Student Membership of BIGGA the contact deails of the major companies Education and Development Fund there (for those studying full-time) supplying those products and services. are five in the series: - The Handbook also includes a compre- • Golf Course Grasses; Greenkeeping is a rewarding and challeng- hensive greenkeeper membership. • Identification and uses of the main ing career choice for all ages and abilities grasses found in golf course rough; from school leavers to those considering a • Identification of trees and shrubs on the career change, let BIGGA help you develop golf course; your career as a greenkeeper by becoming • Identification of damage caused by mam- a Student Member. harrogate Week mals and birds; • The major diseases and pests of fine Membership of BIGGA will Entry to a world class trade event. The turf. provide you with: - Trade Exhibition has over 200 exhibi- tors and 8,500 visitors. There can be no bIgga lending library greenkeeper International better place to ‘Continue to Learn’ than taking part in the education programme. Can’t find the book you require in your The Association’s much read magazine Students will find much that will demand local library or College Resource Centre? packed with up to the minute information their attention including seminars of Why not check our library listing to see if and features providing you with valuable specific interest. On production of your the BIGGA lending library stocks the title research and perhaps even helping you Student membership card you can attend for which you are looking? The lending with your assignments. Delivered FREE to the seminars FREE of charge. Not to men- library is available to all BIGGA members, you door monthly. tion the fantastic networking opportuni- allowing them to borrow up to two books ties available throughout the whole of this for up six weeks, the only cost is return membership handbook week, another valuable way of learning… postage. from those already in the industry. Providing you with an extensive guide to bIgga Website the products and services relating to the on Course field guides fine turf industry and Check out the latest Jobs online by visiting To aid with your study further, www.bigga.org.uk Student members are entitled to receive a FREE copy of each Application Form - for an application form GREENKEEPER of the field guides available either download a form from the BIGGA in the series. Produced in a website at www.bigga.org.uk/join/ GI INTERNATIONAL handy to use and read format. membership-forms/ or contact the mem- NOVEMBER 2010 Thanks to the contributors bership team on 01347 833800 option 1 to the BIGGA for membership.

Featured Inside... Ryder Cup Exclusive 7-page special: How the 2010 Ryder Cup was really won

Also 84 pages including: BIGGA National Championship ReviewReview, Photographic Competition Results, Burghley Park Golf CClu, inside... BIGGA Delegation News, Jobs for the Boys, lub,b, and much more...

72 GI DECEMBER 2010 FEAtUrE greenkeeper Training a guide to the range of training provided throughout the uK

bIgga is actively involved in raising the standard of greenkeeper Training. The association is a member of the greenkeepers’ Training Committee and strives to enhance the level of education through various means, including section, regional and national workshops, seminars and conferences.

The range and quality of training now available throughout the UK means there is a training course for every greenkeeper. This should improve the quality of greenkeeping and help to produce better quality sami Collins golf courses to the benefit of all within the industry. head of learning & Golf Course Managers should ensure that their staff are trained to Development the highest standards. This begins by selecting a training provider that bIgga meets the criteria laid down by the GTC. There is a clear link between Tel: 01347 833800 education, training and economic success and all clubs should invest email: [email protected] in the education of their staff. Website: www.bigga.org.uk

sCoTlanD

elmWooD College Cooper, Fife, KY15 4JB trAInInG ProVIDErS/ Contact: [email protected] CoUrSES GUIDE Full-time and Part-time National Certificate Greenkeeping. Block release/fast track and workbased learning options A full list of GtC approved training providers can be obtained for SVQ Level 2 and Level 3. ILM Level 3 & 4 Management. from the GtC. HNC and HND Golf Course Management available both online/ distance learning and full-time/ part-time The Greenkeepers Training Committee (GTC) are continually options. HNC/HND Golf Facility Management. Sportsturf reviewing the approved status of training providers offering Courses available. SVQ Level 2 & 3 in Landbased Service greenkeeper training courses. Engineering and Golf Course Mechanics Courses. Abrasive For more information contact the GtC on: 01347 838640 or Wheel, BTLIA/NPTC Irrigation Course, Chainsaw, Tree Climbing and Rescue Techniques, Spraying and Noroso visit: www.the-gtc.co.uk Certification/Courses.

oaTrIDge College gosTa TraInIng lTD Ecclesmachan, By Broxburn, 50 Brook Street, Glasgow, G40 2AB West Lothian, EH52 6NH

Contact: Chris Bothwell Contact: Steve Miller Tel: 0141 556 3999 Fax: 0141 556 4999 Tel: 01506 864800 Fax: 01506 853373 Email: learngostatraining.co.uk Email: [email protected] Web: www.oatridge.ac.uk SVQ II, III and IV also Modern Apprenticeship in Sportsturf including other options and GTC Training Manual. Attendance Day release Full-time National Certificate in Greenkeeping; SVQ Level 2 from November-March. Distance learning also available. Short Sportsturf (Day Release); SVQ Level 3 Sportsturf courses with certification include Pesticides, Chainsaw, First Aid, (Day Release and Fast Track); NC’s HNCs, SVQ Levels 2 and Risk Assessment, Abrasive Wheels, Full Range of Machinery Courses, 3 in Horticulture, Landscaping and other land based subjects; Manual Handling and Fire Extinguisher training. Consultancy service NPTC/LANTRA short courses in Pesticides Spraying, for Health and Safety Policy development, Site Risk Audits, Machinery Chainsaws, Turf Maintenance Equipment, ATVs etc; Other Permit to Use system, COSHH and Noise Assessment. specific short courses on demand.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 73 FEAtUrE

englanD

haDloW College asKham brYan College Tonbridge, Kent, TN11 0AL Askham Bryan, York, North Yorkshire, YO23 3FR Contact: Central admissions Tel: 01904 772211 Tel: 0500 551434 Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Web:www.askham-bryan.ac.uk Website: www.hadlow.ac.uk City & Guilds work-based qualifications at Levels 2 and 3 Extended Diploma and Subsidiary Diploma in Horticulture. in Greenkeeping, Groundsmanship and Landscaping for Foundation & Extended Foundation Degrees in Sports apprenticeships for all ages. We also offer a range of short courses, Surface Management, Horticulture, Landscape and Garden such as Health & Safety, COSHH, Chainsaw and Pesticide Management or Arboriculture. All available full or part-time. Application. Block release courses: WBL Diploma Levels 2 & 3 Greenkeeping WBL Diploma Levels 2 & 3 Groundsman Sportsturf Maintenance. Additionally full and part-time courses (post GCSE through to degree level) are available in horticulture and a variety of other land-based Short courses: FEPA spraying, irrigation, chainsaw and subjects. brushcutter courses.

DuChY College merrIsT WooD College

Duchy College, Stoke Climsland, Callington, Cornwall, Worplesdon, Guildford, Surrey GU3 3PE. PL17 8PB Contact: Philip Mayes - Tel: 07896 674789, Duchy College, Rosewarne, Camborne, Cornwall, Email: [email protected] TR14 0AB or Andrew McEvoy – Tel: 07896 674786, Contact: Liz Clarkson Claire Bennetts Email: [email protected] Tel: 01579 372345/07785 105087 01209 722109/07824 626363 Website: www.merristwood.ac.uk. Email [email protected] [email protected] Web: www.duchy.ac.uk Part-time courses: NVQ Level 2 Apprenticeships and Non Apprenticeships Sportsturf college day release and workplace visits/assessments, National Duchy College offers Level 1, 2, & 3 Diplomas and NVQ 4 in Amenity Horticulture Certificate Level 2 Sportsturf in conjunction with IOG / NPTC, NVQ Level 3 (inc Sports Turf), Centre based L2 and L3 Diplomas in Horticulture (also Sportsturf on-line distance learning, NVQ Level 3 Sportsturf Apprenticeships Sustainable Horticulture), RHS Level 2, FdSc Horticulture, BSc (Hons) day release. Also, NVQ Level 4 Sportsturf Management, plus throughout the Horticulture. We also offer Institute of Leadership and Management courses year various NPTC Certificate of Competence courses including; Automatic Turf to Greenkeepers, together with workshops in Business Skills. Short legislative Irrigation, Turf Maintenance Equipment, Mowers, FEPA PA1, 6 & 2, Tractors, courses in pesticides, plant machinery, vehicles, forestry and arboriculture are Brushcutters and Strimmers. Please contact us for up-to-date qualifications and also available. advice on courses and funding. Open days are held regularly at the Campus.

WE CAN MAKE YOUR GRASS GROW GREENER!

At Bridgwater College we offer innovative work- based Sports Turf Management training at Levels 2 and 3, delivered primarily ‘on the job’ and assessed at your workplace. This training is supported by our superb golf course facility at Cannington, near Bridgwater, and by a range of Horticulture courses and certificates of competence that is unrivalled in the South West and can benefit employees and employers alike. To find out more please call Mark Wallington or Helen Goodland on 01278 655105 or contact via email at [email protected].

www.bridgwater.ac.uk

74 GI DECEMBER 2010 FEAtUrE

englanD mYersCough College reaseheaTh College Bilsborrow, Preston, Mantwich, Cheshire, CW5 6DF Lancashire PR3 0RY Contact: Gareth Phillips Contact: Stewart Brown or Chard Spicer Tel: 01995 642305 Tel: 01270 613236 Fax:01270 625665 Web: www.myerscough.ac.uk Email:[email protected] Web:www.reaseheath.ac.uk Myerscough College is a pioneering centre for Sportsturf Education and Training in Europe. Courses are available at all levels from Introductory Part time, block release courses include level 2, level 3 Certificate and Diploma in Diploma to Honours Degrees in Turfgrass Science and Sportsturf and Golf work based Horticulture (Sports Turf-Green keeper). NVQ level 4 Sports turf (Distance Course Management. There are options for full-time and part-time study Learning). Our work based learning group offer apprenticeships in the work place. BTEC with our FdSc Sportsturf and BSc Turfgrass Science courses uniquely First Diploma in Horticulture, National Diploma in Horticulture/Sports Turf option, available ONLINE also and having students enrolled throughout the UK, BTEC National Diploma in Sports Performance and Facilities Management endorsed by Europe and the USA. A new “Top-Up” BSc Degree in Sportsturf and Golf Premier League, Football league. Course Management is now available for those already holding FdSc or HND Short Courses include Pesticide application (PA1/PA2/PA6) Chainsaw operation, qualifications in Sportsturf. Our Work Based Training group offer NVQ’s in Safe use of mowers. Bespoke courses and overseas programs available on request. On the workplace from levels throughout the UK. site facilities include a commercially operating golf course, rugby, football pitches and Crewe Alexandra training grounds.

oaKlanDs College souTh sTafforDshIre St Albans Smallford Campus, College Hatfield Road, St Albans, Penkridge, Staffordshire ST19 5PH Hertfordshire, AL4 0JA Tel:01785 712209 Contact: Andrew Wight Fax: 01785 715701 Tel: 01727 737735 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Web:www.southstaffs.ac.uk Web: www.oaklands.ac.uk South Staffordshire College offers an extensive range of courses, full, part time Full time courses: City and Guilds Level 2 Diploma options and day release. Full time programmes include; NPTC Skills for Life, Level One, 1st Diploma, National Award. National Certificate and National Diploma. in Greenkeeping/Sports turf and Higher Education programmes can be studied on a part time basis and Horticulture. include Foundation Degree and the Bsc in Horticulture. Work based learning Work Based learning- Level 2 and 3 Diploma in is available at NVQ 1, NVQ 2, and NVQ 3 and South Staffordshire offers very extensive Train2Gain provision. Sports turf and green keeping can be studied Greenkeeping and Apprenticeship routes. to NVQ 2 and NVQ 3 level on a day release basis. The college offers a wide transport network to its learners as well as residential accommodation on site.

PlumPTon College sParsholT College Ditchling Road, Plumpton, NR Lewes, Sparsholt College Hampshire East Sussex, BN7 3AE (incorporating Andover College Campus) Sparsholt, Winchester, Hampshire, SO21 2NF Tel: 01273 890454 Fax: 01273 890071 Contact: Registry Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01962 797213 Web: www.plumpton.ac.uk Email: [email protected] Web: www.sparsholt.ac.uk Foundation Degree: Garden Design. Levels 2 and 3, Diploma in Horticulture. Part time courses: Work based Diploma: Level 1 and Level 2: Greenkeeping, Groundsmanship and Landscaping and Horticulture. NVQ and Advanced Apprenticeships in Amenity Level 3: Greenkeeping, Groundsmanship and Landscaping and Horticulture (Sports Turf). ND Sport – Golf Academy. Short- Horticulture. Parks, Gardens and Greenspace. Also RHS Level 2. Short courses accredited by NPTC , LANTRA Or NVQ in chainsaw courses available. FEPA Spraying and Chainsaw. Bespoke Training, operation, pesticides, tree felling and clearing, arboriculture following Training Needs Analysis ( TNA). and machinery maintenance.

Feature BE SEEn Greenkeeper HErE Training BIGGA is actively involved in raising the standard to advertise or to be listed in the next of Greenkeeper Training. The Association is a member of the Greenkeepers’ Training edition of Greenkeeper Training, Committee and strives to enhance the level of education through various means, including contact us on 01347 833800 Section, Regional and National workshops, seminars and conferences.

The range and quality of training now available throughout the UK means there is a training course for every greenkeeper. This should improve the quality of greenkeeping and help to produce better quality golf courses to the benefit of all within the industry. Golf Course Managers should ensure that their staff are trained to DECEMBER 2010 GI 75 the highest standards. This begins by selecting a training provider that meets the criteria laid down by the GTC. There is a clear link between education, training and economic success and all clubs should invest in the education of their staff.

SCOTLAND

traINING PrOVIDerS/ COurSeS GuIDe

For more information contact the GtC on: 01347 838640 or visit: www.the-gtc.co.uk

GI BuyerS’ GuIde

BuyerS aeratIon GuIde CateGorIeS • AERATION • ALL WEATHER SURFACES • ARTIFICIAL GRASS • ANTI SLIP • BUNKER CONSTRUCTION • CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR • CONSTRUCTION • DRAINAGE • FINANCE & LEASING • HEDGES/TREES • IRRIGATION • IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS • LAKE CONSTRUCTION lInerS Look at the latest... • MACHINERY FOR SALE Second Hand Machinery Huxley All-Weather tee at • MACHINERY WANTED ...for sale Corhampton Golf Club • RUBBER CRUMB www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds • SOIL FOOD WEB • TOP DRESSING W GeneratIon • TREE MOVING all WeatHer SurfaCeS • TREE CLEARANCE uxley turf SolveS • TURF nter tee proBleMS • VERTIDRAINING HIRE • WASTE/WASHWATER PREMIER ALL-WEATHER SURFACES FOR GOLF treatMent Huxley Golf, PGA Official Supplier of all-weather golf surfaces, reports that sales of its new huxley Premier Tee Turf 2 (PTT2) all-weather tee turf are continuing at aeratIon record levels. “Huxley PTT2 takes a normal tee peg anywhere in the pile GENUINE PARTS & TINES (even the very long tee pegs for large-headed Drivers), so it’s ideal for use as an alternative or winter tee and it’s also been a great success on ranges and practice tees, such as at St Huxley Practice Tee at St Andrews Links Andrews and many other top courses,” said Director Paul Top quality practice tees, golf course tees, putting Huxley & pitching greens, pathways, patios, cart tracks “The new synthetic yarn we use won’t fade, so it looks great and lawns professionally designed and installed. anywhere – even in the shade under trees where natural grass Deep Aeration - Pure & Simple Tel: 01962 733222 won’t grow. Huxley PTT2 tee turf requires no irrigation, mowing OLD & NEW MODELS [email protected] www.huxleygolf.com or aeration and the special fibres do not need any infill for Tel: 0845 026 0064 support. This means that regular maintenance is absolutely [email protected] minimal, one of our key R&D objectives when introducing this new Huxley turf,” explained Paul. To advertise within To solve your winter tee or practice ground problems, find Greenkeeper International out about Huxley Golf’s new PTT2 tee turf. Huxley Golf has please contact Kirstin on specialist distributors throughout the UK and Ireland and also 01347 833 832 in many other countries. The company can install or give advice TOPTURF IRRIGATION to customers about self installation. IS THE LEADING DEALER or email For full information and latest list of Huxley PTT2 users INSTALLER & SERVICING AGENT [email protected] contact Huxley Golf: FOR OTTERBINE BAREBO Advertising rates: Tel: 01962 733222 AERATION EQUIPMENT [email protected] 2006, 2007 & 2008 1/4 page - £570 www.huxleygolf.com 1/2 page_ £790 Call us on 0044 (0) 870 8720081 www.ttirrigation.co.uk Full page - £1500

76 GI DECEMBER 2010 ARTIFICIAL GRASS CLOTHING / FOOTWEAR DRAINAGE DRAINAGE

  Greenkeeper Traditional Wear Golf Course Drainage  drainage and  Golf Course Drainage Specialist   www.gkwear.co.uk Survey / Design / Installation / Greens /    Lytag banding Fairways / Bunkers / Complete Courses For fast and friendly UK   Plastic Pipe / Turfdry Drainage System  Shop Online of greens and fairways service call:  For fast and friendly Nationwide Service Melvyn Taylor 25% Discount for   Contact Melvyn Taylor: 01283 551417 on 01283 551417 BIGGA Members - Register Now 07836 259133 / [email protected] or 07836 259133

FOR FREE CATALOGUE www.turfdry.com www.turfdry.com Phone 01334 653733 Tel: 01785 812706 E: [email protected] Philip Dixon Contractors Ltd  www.northstaffsirrigation.co.uk Established 1978  Sportsturf Drainage Specialist  CONSTRUCTION  Drainage • Construction • Renovation  Scotland Based ANTI-SLIP Meiklem Drainage Contractors Ltd Slitting • Banding • Maintenance Sportsturf Drainage Tel 01772 877289 (Preston, Lancs) Golf Course Construction Specialists Email: [email protected] www.dixondrainage.co.uk Remodelling & Alterations Golf Courses - Sportsfields Water Engineering Drainage * Construction [email protected] * Slitting/Banding www.lakelandearthworks.com Contact Meiklem Drainage on: 01400 251605 T: 01383 830217 07900693705 M: 07808 897 300 E: [email protected]

GOLF COURSE & SPORTSGROUND SPEEDCUT CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTORS LTD RENOVATION & MAINTENANCE Construction Remodelling SPORTSTURF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS Water Features Visit www.bigga.org.uk Construction LAND DRAINAGE SCHEMES and check out the Tel: 01604 468908 Drainage WATER MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS latest chat Fax: 01604 474853 www.deltagolf2000.co.uk Renovation from the AGRONOMY Sandslitting Tel. 01722 716361 greenkeeping 180 Ruskin Road, Kingsthorpe, industry Northampton NN2 7TA Contact: Kevin Smith www.mjabbott.co.uk OXFORD 01865 331479

BUNKER CONSTRUCTION Photo courtesy of Rudding Park Repton Short Course ‘Signature Island Green’. FINANCE & LEASING

2010 Machinery Finance No Deposit Payments from April 2010

The Bunker Specialists

DESIGN : INSTALLATION : MAINTENANCE *New and used equipment* • New Build • Remodelling Pitch Construction : Piped Drainage Systems : Sand Slitting Blec VibroPitch Sand Banding Construction : Koro Surfacing : Piped : Vertidraining Drainage : Topdressing Systems : Overseeding • Renovation • Lining Sand Slitting : Blec Vibro Sand Banding Call today for a quote Visit www.bigga.org.uk Koro Surfacing : Vertidraining : Topdressing : Overseeding Give us your worst bunkers and and check out the If it’s drainage, it has to be Duncan Ross! 01620 890200 If it’s drainage, it has to be Duncan Ross! Golf Finance Ltd we’ll make them your best latest chat 4 Church Road from the Appley Bridge, Wigan, Lancashire WN6 9DT North Berwick Tel: 01773 741100 AGRONOMY Appley Bridge, Wigan, Lancashire WN6 9DT t 01257 255321 f 01257t 01257 255327 e [email protected] 255321 EH39 5NP greenkeeping e www.sportcrete.com office@duncanrosslanddrainage.co.ukwww.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk All finance subject to status licensed credit bokers industry www.duncanrosslanddrainage.co.uk Written detail on request.

DECEMBER 2010 GI 77 BuyerS’ GuIde

HEDGES / TREES IrrIGatIon IrrIGatIon MaCHInery for Sale ConSultantS

The TAS TRIMMER irritech limited SPRINKLER HEAD MAINTENANCE Independent Irrigation Consultants Advertise here AND SAFETY MADE EASY from £23 +VAT Specialising in:- from as little as £250 ● All popular Existing system evaluation for a FULL 6 MONTHS, ● sprinkler, System design & upgrade ● full colour, please call valve box Project management & marker Kirstin on 01347 833 832 Contact Roger Davey on: sizes www.jsmd.co.uk tel. 0845 026 0064 01823 690216 or email www.irritechlimited.co.uk [email protected]

lake ConStruCtIon lInerS Visit www.bigga.org.uk and check out the latest chat Comprehensive advice ruBBer CruMB from the AGRONOMY regarding design and greenkeeping construction of water areas industry The use of RUBBER CRUMB on Tel: 01206 262676 grass as top dressing has been www.geosynthetic.co.uk granted a PATENT in the UK and IrrIGatIon Ireland under Number EP0788301BI TEBBUTT ASSO. We’ll seal ARE THE LICENSEES your lake – with CROWN III rubber crumb Turf empty or full Reinforcement, the licensed product Contact Tebbutt Asso. Top 5 facts about ESS-13 on 01253 342003 or Fax 01253 346644 • 52 years of proven effectiveness e-mail: [email protected] Design & installation of irrigation www.tebbuttassociates.co.uk systems for all sportsturf & • designed to be permanent landscaping projects. • more cost effective than pvc liners Phone: 01427 874200 • can be used on an empty Fax: 01427 875333 or full pond Advertise here • guaranteed results from as little as £250 Tel: 01773 741100 Supply-Service www.seepagecontrol.com for a FULL 6 MONTHS, Design-Install full colour, please call 01829 731391 Kirstin on 01347 833 832 LEADING THE WAY IN IRRIGATION www.tcrirrigation.co.uk MaCHInery Wanted • DESIGN or email • INSTALLATION • SERVICING Visit www.bigga.org.uk [email protected] FOR GOLF COURSES, STADIA, and check out the RACECOURSES, BOWLING GREENS, latest chat Invicta Groundcare PRIVATE GARDENS & LAKES. from the AGRONOMY Equipment Ltd greenkeeping We specialise in the purchase of all Please call 0870 8720081 industry used groundcare equipment www.ttirrigation.co.uk top dreSSInGS We are looking to purchase single items to large fleets nationwide Independent Professional Irrigation, Golf Courses, Contact: Steve Dyne Bowling Greens, Sports, Irrigation Tel No: 01474 874 120 Racecourses, Gardens Mobile: 07815 528 130 Email: [email protected] • Design/Advice • Servicing • New Installations • Service Contracts LIQUID ASSET • Contracting • System Upgrades MANMANAGEMENTAGEMENT Look at the latest... • Supply & Sales • PC Systems Call Lely: 01480 226848 or Second Hand Machinery Tel. 01765 602175 or 01765 690598 email: irrigation.uk lely.com Fax 01765 603488 B @ T ...for sale Email:[email protected] L www.par4.co.uk I www.toro.com Area Dealer A www.bigga.org.uk/classifieds

78 GI DECEMBER 2010 top dreSSInGS vertIdraInInG HIre uSed MaCHInery

FOR ALL YOUR BULK SUPPLIES Visit the Classified section of the NATIONWIDE DELIVERIES new BIGGA website for full details 01858 464346 / 433003 of machinery for sale... www.banksamenity.co.uk Shirley Aldred & Co. Ltd www.bigga.org.uk/classified Suppliers of high quality granular charcoal for over 200 years Here’s a selection... ■Use one of the oldest ■ Totally organic product products known to man to treat black layer ■ Large stock levels of all grades ■Prevent thatch build up ■Delivery anywhere in ■Improve drainage mainland UK within and rootzone 3-4 days Tel: 01433 620003 Fax: 01433 620388

turf

20 years of golf turf experience 5 golf grades including high bent Greens on USGA rootzone, RTF for stabilisation/drought tolerance, Carraro Tigre 3200 4 wheel drive tractor Wildflower Turf, Tractor Four Cylinder 43 Horse and new Low Maintenance turf WASTE/WASHWATER X show model, like new. Power Engine Tel: 01904 448675 treatMent 26hp Yanmar engine, Low Ground Pressure www.turf.co.uk Selectable 2-4wd. Turf tyres worn more but Power steering, 540 & still good Ground speed PTO. Serviced regularly Hydrotech Solutions 3 point linkage, Turf tyres, folding roll bar. Wiedenmann • Golf Machinery Wash Water Treatment finishing mower - • Positive Filtration – Non-Biological £5,990 + VaT Specialist Growers of • 200 + Systems Installed Worldwide • Simple, Low Cost Installation forklift for Tractor 3 16ft Triplex Finishing Turf for Golf Courses • Low Running Costs point, new Mower Rootzone Turf for Greens Brand New linkage As New Grown on USGA rootzone, Tel: 01925 758099 mounted fork lift. Lift top-dressed throughout the year, Fax: 01925 757519 height 2300cm. 1200Kg Trilo su40 vacuum and mown at 6mm. www.grassgrabber.com capacity. Hydraulic unit £2,500 Predominantly bent sward Email: [email protected] top link. Fold up tines. Turf for Tees, Surrounds, Category 2. Brand New Near new Trilo vacuum Approaches and Fairways Various mixtures including & Unused. unit. Attached to a rigid ryegrass/fescue, 100% fescue, trailor. 11hp honda engine and bent/fescue grown Kuhn bKe250 Excellent condition on sandy loam topsoil. 2.5m Flail Mower NEWNEW for for 2010/2011 2007 Fixed Headstock Imants shockwave TurfRTF for turf bunker for pathways revetting NEW 1.55mtr - ex demo - and bunker banks.lining. Tees supplied and laid, with £8950 + VaT Tees supplied and laid, with Kubota l4200 Ex demo Shockwave optionaloptional precision laser lasergrading. grading. 1998 Kubota L4200 1.5mtr . Used for our own Tel: 01652 678 000 Used on a Golf Course demos / shows. www.tillersturf.co.uk 4940 Hours

DECEMBER 2010 GI 79 Recruitment

HEAD GREENKEEPER

The Attersee-Traunsee Golf Club require an experienced Head Greenkeeper REWARDS from 1st March 2011. This 18 hole The opportunity to raise a good quality members’ course is situated midway parkland course, with top class practice between Salzburg and Linz in an area of facilities, to a higher level. outstanding natural beauty. Large lakes To work in an area where good quality and mountains are a 10 minute drive work is recognised and valued. and provide superb facilities for outdoor Oaklands College is located in the historic city of St Albans, set in the To live in a region with excellent quality activities. of lifestyle. heart of the Hertfordshire countryside yet only half an hour from London. We are moving forward on a path towards achieving ‘outstanding’ status ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS The salary is negotiable but will be in line with BIGGA salary scales. There is and welcome those professionals who want to develop their skills with Experienced and qualified to an no accommodation but assistance with us and truly unlock their potential. appropriate level. relocation costs will be considered. The ability to communicate in German to a good standard. Initial interviews will be in the UK and all NVQ Assessor Have the ability to lead, organise, motivate applications (including CV) should be sent – Horticulture (Sportsturf/Greenkeeping) and develop a teamwork attitude within the online to [email protected] staff.Possess an eye for detail with the by 31st December. 37 hours per week ability to manage/control a budget. Visit our website at www.atterseegolf.at Salary range £22,776 to £28,050 per annum Do you have a passion for horticulture in general and sportsturf/ greenkeeping in particular and working in the industry? Do you have commitment to educational values? Randaberg GolfKlubb, Norway We are looking for an assessor to advise and support candidates through Greenkeeper the assessment process from entry point to external verifi cation. The Randaberg Golf Klubb is a friendly 9 hole private members club with 630 members. successful candidate will also have experience of increasing the number of students within this curriculum area or be able to demonstrate strong Opened in 1999 it is a links type course 15km north of central Stavanger. links with the sportsturf industry. The club is looking for a hands on Greenkeeper with machine maintenance, Irrigation and spraying experience to join the team. Ideally you will possess Assessor’s award A1 or D32/D33, have a minimum of a Level 3 Horticulture qualifi cation with Sportsturf or Greenkeeping The Greenkeeper with help from a part time assistant would be responsible specialism and have recent industrial experience. Ability to travel for the general upkeep and development of the Golf Course. This is a fantastic is essential. opportunity for a forward thinking, enthusiastic individual. The ability to plan your own and your assistants work schedules,and work to agreed budget is essential. For full details of this role, application forms and information on working at You will have a flexible working hours. This position is seasonal with a 9 Oaklands College, please visit our website: month contract each year. A competitive salary will be offered. There is excellent accommodation available. www.oaklands.ac.uk Interviews will be held in Dundee in December 2010, being able to start at the For further information please email: beginning of March 2011. [email protected] For further details, please contact Fraser Mudie at [email protected] Closing date: 31st December 2010 or Telephone 0755 2732996 www.randaberg-golf.no TC0077 Recruitment Ad 127x87_Layout 1 12/11/2010 09:32 Page 1

The Diamond Country Club, Austria, is looking to recruit various postions for the opening of season 2011 (March 1st) PRODUCT SPECIALIST Applications are open for the positions of: Deputy Head Greenkeeper After Sales Support Irrigation technician Mechanic and Greenkeepers Lely UK is the exclusive distributor in the UK for the world- The Diamond Country Club, host this year to the 2010 Austrian open is looking leading Toro range of professional turf maintenance machinery to expand and strengthen its existing team. Under new ownership the 27 hole complex and John Carnegie Golf Academy aims to maintain, develop and improve and irrigation products, consumer lawnmowers and its facilities with an ongoing expansion project for the following years. Applicants garden accessories. will be accommodated close to the golf course as part of their 9 month seasonal package. The Ability to work within a team and as an individual is key to these We are looking to recruit a Product Specialist to manage the positions. Spraying and chainsaw qualifications with experience on all machines technical after sales support activities of our dealers and service types will be seen highly in your favour. centres, monitoring product performance and liaising with Applicants will be highly self motivated, competent in all aspects of modern corporate account customers to ensure first-class after greenkeeping, punctual and reliable. Please contact, stating which position is of interest to you: sales support. Head Greenkeeper, Russell Ellingworth at [email protected] The successful applicant will have a formal qualification in an Applications are open until December 31st engineering subject, a practical background with knowledge of workshop best practice and a full understanding of mobile equipment, electrical/hydraulic systems, engines and transmissions. Candidates Qualified Full Time Greenkeeper – Epsom, Surrey should also have good communication skills and be proficient in Microsoft Office and Windows. Maple Leaf Golf, owner/operator of Chichester and Hill Barn Golf Clubs is looking for a highly motivated, The position requires travel around southern England and you may greenkeeper to join the team. be expected to work from home depending on your current location. An exciting opportunity exists to join our team of dedicated In return we offer a competitive package including company car professionals who have already significantly improved the and pension. course and facilities at Horton Park. A new team member is needed to assist with the remodeling of the first three holes and to build on the impressive improvement If you have the qualities we are looking for, please apply with CV to in the facilities since Maple Leaf Golf took over in 2009. We are looking for a Sharon Saunders at the address below, or email [email protected] level 2 qualified greenkeeper with a minimum of two years experience and who preferably holds all relevant spraying certificates. However, consideration will be given to candidates with less experience who can show a real ‘can do’ attitude. Closing date for applications: Wednesday, 15 December Contact Wendy Wright for a Job Specification and Application Form on 0208 393 8400 or email [email protected] Lely (UK) Limited, 1 Station Road, St. Neots, Cambs. PE19 1QH Alternatively, full details are available at www.hortonparkgolf.com Tel: 01480 226800 Email: [email protected]

Closing date for applications is Monday 13th December.

80 GI DECEMBER 2010 LOOKING FOR A NEW OPPORTUNITY? LOOK NO FURTHER THAN... www.bigga.org.uk/careers

The website is updated regularly with new vacancies, so don’t delay, a new job is only a click away

For further information contact Kirstin Black on 01347 833 832 or email [email protected]

QUICK ‘NINE HOLE’ QUIZ ANSWERS:

1. George Osborne 2. Andy Flower 3. Mark Thompson 4. Carol Ann Duffy 5. George O’Grady CBE 6. Michel Platini intheshed answers 7. John Monks 8. Ben Collins 9. Boris Johnson

CROSSWORD MONSTER SUDOKO SQUIGGLY SUDOKO

DECEMBER 2010 GI 81 oonn thethe ssoapboxoapbox aa vehicle new vehicle for letting for people people within within the the industryindustry express to express their their point viewpoint of view

You say Course manager or head it. In my opinion the members are objects and it is another financial burden. If I have greenkeeper, I say superintendent to be worked around and problems to be someone needs to use a chainsaw, I teach but is that the only difference solved. I bet you’re wondering how I haven’t them myself. Maybe takes 20 minutes, between the british and americans been fired. then I watch them for a few more minutes with regards to golf course You, I’m referring to everyone on the east and if they don’t cut off a limb they are good maintenance? side of the Atlantic, only see what’s on TV to go. Let’s start with semantics. Even though where there is a Tour event going on. Those The regulations you have to have in order both countries speak English there are dif- events are almost always in large metro areas to cross a road are comical. The financial ferences that make communication difficult. and are set up to test the very best players. burden in order to be “street legal” is Certain words, phrases, and slang expres- The majority of the courses, in the US, have absurd. sions that are used in the forum, articles etc course conditions and budgets just like the A three second run across a road doesn’t sometime make it hard to understand. So UK. We, I am referring to everyone on the warrant the licensing fees and the extra how did sward become lawn, pitch become west side of the Atlantic, have medium to cost of road diesel. I can run my tractors sportsfield? Other golf course words such small budgets, decade old technology, and three miles down the road to access my river as trolley and buggy instead pull cart and doctors, lawyers, and farmers bosses just pumps, without fear of getting fined. golf cart are also puzzling. Then there is the like you. No matter what the distance that sepa- word to describe irresponsible golfers, my As far as maintenance practices are con- rates the UK from the US, and the differ- new favorite word from the UK by the way, is cerned, it’s basically the same on both sides ences in the same language, and differences numpty - the British knucklehead. of the Atlantic/pond we fertilize/fertilise, in regulations imposed on us by outside One phrase that we commonly use is water, grow and mow. agencies, we have the same goals. “Height of Cut” or HOC and I guess it is fair Yes it’s true that Americans use more We all get up early and go to work with to say the Americans are responsible for the fertilizer and water than you, but that is the intent of providing the best possible golf problems associated with low HOC’s. changing as the industry is becoming more course with what we have to work with. Over time Superintendents have devel- globally responsible. oped maintenance practices that produce incredibly low HOC’s. Because of competi- tion between clubs in the large metro areas for new members, Superintendents have You say tomato... been conditioned to push the limits. I am not saying you are not mowing at low HOC’s, some of you are. But the heights mentioned are those that were attained in But the reason for the extra use is that the early 80’s. we have to in order to overcome the wear In the UK the HGK tries to hold the line and tear from golf carts/buggies. American at a slightly higher or moderately higher golfers very seldom walk anywhere! The fact HOC than the American Superintendent. that British golfers will walk the course is a My view is that it is a budgetary issue and trait I admire. also a traditional greenkeeping practice that And just as amazing to the British that I find brilliant. With the traditional designs we use too much chemicals and water, it is and styles of club management there is a amazing to the Americans that the British resistance to “go low” or even vary how the will allow play on frost covered grass. When course is presented. American courses and polled I could find no one who would say Superintendents don’t have that sense of that they allow play on frost. It didn’t matter tradition. whether it was public/pay and play golf or a While I do prefer the “traditional” style country club we don’t allow play on frost. It of greenkeeping I have strayed off the path doesn’t make sense to spend the time, effort, from time to time. If I need to make a point and money to get the course in the best about who should determine what is right possible shape and then allow play to set from the course, I have cut low and I mean you back. Here in the States, depending on shamefully low and after a few weeks of six the region we are in, some courses will shut hour rounds we return to sensible HOC’s down entirely for the winter. Sean Sullivan, CGCS and I have proven my point. The last difference that I’ll highlight is the the Briarwood While I am talking about me, I have a way Government regulations are imposed Billings Montana, uSA different attitude about the golf industry on the UK courses. You guys have to bring than everyone else. You may be in a service in independent consultants or assessors in Sean Sullivan industry and provide course conditions for order to document everything you do. Take your members’ enjoyment, but my boss is chainsaws, you bring in an expert and have the golf course and I provide conditions that training, then have a test and the employees suit the course, and hope the golfers enjoy get a certificate to prove they are competent the views expressed within on the Soapbox are not necessarily those of Greenkeeper International

82 GI DECEMBER 2010 itt lowara_green keeper advert:Layout 1 20/10/2010 15:41 Page 1

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Lowara UK Limited Millwey Rise Industrial Estate, Axminster, Devon EX13 5HU Tel: 01297 630230 • Fax: 01297 630270 e-mail: [email protected] • http://www.lowara.co.uk GKI Eclipse 322 A4 New style_Layout 1 15/11/2010 08:56 Page 1

The Jacobsen Eclipse 322

the only 100% hydraulic-free greens mower available … anywhere!

Other ‘hybrids’ still use hydraulic motors for propulsion, so when we say no hydraulics, we mean it. Traction, reel drive and lift/lower operations are all electrically driven using either a small petrol or diesel engine running a 48 volt generator. And now there’s an all- electric version using a battery pack. It’s stealth quiet and ideal for greens close to housing or hotel rooms.

For greener operation on your greens, less maintenance and lower operating costs, it has to be the Jacobsen Eclipse 322. By the way, did we mention … no hydraulics.

www.ransomesjacobsen.com Ransomes Jacobsen Ltd West Road, Ipswich, IP3 9TT UK Tel: +44 (0) 1473 270000 Web: www.ransomesjacobsen.com

Code: GKI/12/10/E322 Driving Environmental Performance