Award-winning magazine of the British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association
March 2001 - £3.50
Are your greens up to scratch?
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The True-Surface rollers unique vibratory action does something no other type of roller can. It helps you to balance the speeds of a|| your greens. Available to fit By simply varying your forward speed, you can vary the vibrations per metre. Toro, Jacobsen, This allows you to correct any inconsistencies between different greens. Ransomes, John ...makes true greens Deere and Lesco A guide to Advertisers' Index who's who Advertiser Page Advanta Seeds at BIGGA 11 Your next issue of Greenkeeper International Angus Horticulture 44 will be with you by April 9f 2001 President Barenbrug 13 Sir Michael Bonallack, OBE Bathgate Silica Sand 17 BIGGA Board of Management Boughton Loam 11 Regulars Chairman - Clive Osgood Vice Chairman - Richard Barker Charterhouse 48-49 News Past Chairman - Elliott Small Eagle Promotions 17 Pages 4, 5, 6 and 7 Board Members Evergreens 13 Ian Semple Paul Jenkins Fern House Marketing Ltd 13 9 Letters Jim Paton Greentek 2 Ian Holoran David Waiden Huxley Golf Ltd 19 10 Education Executive Director Jinma (UK) Ltd 31 Ken Richardson looks to the future of education and Neil Thomas training. E-mail: [email protected] John Deere 59 Kawasaki 17 Administration Manager 12 Membership Update John Pemberton Kubota UK Ltd 38 E-mail: [email protected] Lely 26-27, 60 12 Webwatch Sales & Marketing Manager Steve Hardy North Staffs Irrigation Ltd 31 E-mail: [email protected] 32 Talking Heads Piltland Technology 31 Six top Head men talk about Weather trends Editorial Media Scott MacCallum Rigby Taylor 7, 19 E-mail: [email protected] Same Deutz Fahr 47 45-50 Around the Green Education & Training Manager Scotts/Levington 51 Ken Richardson 58 Features Listing Sisis Ltd 44 E-mail: [email protected] Helping you track down some of Greenkeeper Membership Services Officer Wessex Farm Machinery 11 International's previous articles Tracey Maddison E-mail: [email protected] 58 As I see it... BIGGA Chairman Clive Osgood, produces a two Contact us part column from Walton Heath and Dallas, Texas.
You can contact The British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association in any number of ways: Post: BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, JUU on Jirs Alne, York, Y061 1UF Visit www«bissa»ors«uk and check out the E-mail: [email protected] ^ latest chat from the green keeping industry Internet: www.bigga.org.uk ty fÄwww.bigga.org. i1* Tel: 01347 833800 Are your greens up to scratch? Fax: 01347 833801 INVESTOR IN PEOPLE Features
14 A Triumph in Texas Past BIGGA Chairman, Dean Cleaver, reports from The official monthly magazine the GCSAA Show in Dallas. of the British St International Golf Greenkeepers Association 18 Westurf Revisited Editorial Regional Administrator, Paula Humphries reveals Editor: Scott MacCallum Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833801 what visitors to the Westpoint Arena in Exeter will (SíT) Reigning in the Rain E-mail: [email protected] have in store. Advertising Sales & Marketing Manager: Steve Hardy 20 Reigning in the Rain Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833802 E-mail: [email protected] The York Golf Club greenkeeping team produced mir- Sales & Marketing Department: acles during a winter that saw much of the course Cheryl Broomhead, Diane Bray, Meredith Foster under water. Tel: 01347 833800 Fax: 01347 833802 E-mail: [email protected] 24 Short Back and Sides Design Design & Production Editor: David Emery Roland Taylor gives the low down on the greens Tel: 01347 833800 ISDN: 01347 830020 mower E-mail: [email protected] Printing 28 Are your greens up to scratch? Hi-Tec Print, Units 9-10, Houghton Road, North Anston Trading Estate, North Anston, Tim Colclough looks at what is required to ensure Sheffield S25 4JJ ISDN: 01909 550561 good putting surfaces. Tel: 01909 568533 Fax: 01909 568206
The advertising copy deadline for inclusion 34 Against all odds in the .April 2001 edition of Greenkeeper Kristian Waagen talks about the wonderful work that International is Thursday, March 15, 2001 went into preparing then maintaining Meland Golf Greenkeeper International: Club in Norway. (jíí) Against all odds Contents may not be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission. Return postage must accompany 39 The Write Stuff all materials submitted if return is requested. No responsibility can be assumed for unsolicited materials. David Roy's winning entry in the 2000 BIGGA Essay Theright i s reserved to edit submissions before publication. Competition is reproduced in full. Although every care will be taken, no responsibility is accepted for loss of manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the 42 The Appliance of Science Association, and no responsibility is accepted for such content, advertising or product information that may appear. BIGGA Golden Key supporter, Rigby Taylor's advisory Circulation is by subscription. Subscription rate: UK £36 per company, Grass Science, is profiled. year, Europe and Eire £46. The magazine is also distributed to BIGGA members, golf clubs, local authorities, the turf industry, libraries and central government. ( 39The Write Stuff ISSN: 0961-6977 © 2001 British and International Golf Greenkeepers Association Renewing a Robert to provide support for Marriott York-based independent turf Link to the past consultant, Robert Laycock, (left) has been appointed by Marriott One of the most interesting pieces of news released UK to provide agronomic support in the last few weeks was that Royal Liverpool Golf to the 11 Course Managers at golf Club, better known as Hoylake, is to return to the courses located at Marriott Hotel Open Championship rota, having last hosted an Open and Country Qubs throughout in 1967. Coming hot on the heels of Carnoustie's the United Kingdom. return in 1999, after a ^ap of 24 years, it is another Encompassing 16 separate golf example of the R&As policy of widening the courses in England, Scotland and Championship rota. Wales, the appointment by I don't suppose I'm alone in welcoming this devel- Marriott UK involves the provi- opment, particularly as none of the existing venues sion by Robert of advisory visits as are being removed. well as detailed soil and plant The Open is an amazing, unique, wonderful event. analysis, as required by the indi- Every year something happens which quickens the vidual Course Managers. pulse and causes your jaw to drop. Think back over Robert's appointment was con- the last few years. We've had Costantino Rocca's firmed by David MacLaren, amazing putt on the finalgree n at St Andrews to force (pictured right) Director of Golf Course Managers, it was felt that Marriott Forest of Arden. Both the play-off with John Daly; Justin Rose's holed chip Operations, Marriott UK: "This they deserved additional indepen- courses are PGA European Tour from the rough to signal the end of his amateur career appointment is part of a world-wide dent technical support to help venues and have hosted four closely followed by Brian Watt's extraordinarily diffi- strategy by our parent, Whitbread maintain Marriott's golf facilities in English Opens between them since cult bunker shot to force a play-off with Mark O'Meara pic, aimed at reinforcing Marriott peak condition throughout the 1997. both at Royal Birkdale; then of course there was Jean Golf's position as the number one year." "I am naturally delighted to have Van De Velde and local hero Paul Lawrie at Carnoustie provider of quality golf and associ- David explained that Robert been chosen to provide indepen- and, last year, Tiger Woods at St Andrews becoming ated hotel and leisure facilities in the came highly recommended having dent agronomic input and technical the youngest ever to complete the set of Grand Slam United Kingdom," he said. worked closely over the past two support to such an important group events. History in the making. 'Although we are very proud of years with the Course Managers at of golf courses," commented Before that we've had the Duel in the Sun at the work carried out by all our Marriott Hanbury Manor and Robert. Turnberry in 1977; Tony Jacklin at Royal Lytham; Sandy Lyle at Royal St George's; Nick Faldo's 18 straight pars at Muirfield and the first ever four hole play-off at Royal Troon. Charterhouse present dealer awards Each venue on the current rota has offered some- thing worthy of permanent space in our memory banks and extending the rota will give yet more oppor- tunities for memorable moments. There are so few classic links courses in this coun- try, and even fewer with the infrastructure to host a modern day Open Championship that the R&A and Royal Liverpool Golf Qub must be applauded for talc- ing the initiative and spending the money necessary to make Hoylake a venue again. Since Roberto De Vicenzo won the Championship there in 1967 the Championship has become unrecognisable with a tented village, which should be rightsno w be known as a town, and media exposure which requires an army of journalists, photographers and broadcasters. I understand extra land has been acquired by the club to ease some of the pressure this brings. What it does mean is that a wonderful course will again be given the exposure that it deserves and the world's top players will be presented with a challenge they haven't faced before. That can only add something to the Championship and give, all but the older among us, a new experi- Charterhouse Turf Machinery, the specialist dis- Pictured above are Philip Threadgold, Sales ence for which to look forward. tributor of turf and grounds care equipment, Director Charterhouse Ltd; Ian Royston, Risboro' May I pass on my congratulations to Hoylake and recently presented their 2001 Dealer Awards. The Turf - a division of Turner Groundscare (Winner in particular Derek Green who, even now will be mak- awards recognise outstanding achievements made of Turf Machinery Dealer of the Year); David ing preparations for The Open's return. by the company's 18 Tractor Dealers and 34 Turf Jenkins, Managing Director, Charterhouse Ltd; The one downside might be for Machinery Dealer Outlets throughout the UK. Richard Campey, of Richard Campey Ltd (Winner members of the BIGGA Awards were also presented for development and of Tractor Dealer of the Year), and Tony Scambler Greenkeeping Support Team success in reaching and surpassing targets in other of AJ Scambler (Target Achiever). who thought they had complet- key business areas. ed the set when they worked at Carnoustie two years ago. They will now have to wait until at least 2006 to add the final notch Peter claims UK territory to their personal Open Championship belts. Bernhard and Company has Express Dual Grinders from The appointed Peter Hampton (right) Mississippi to the West Coast, M ^ Scott MacCallum as their new UK Territory including Canada. ii | / Editor Manager. This follows the com- "Having been in the grass pany's continuing development as machinery industry since 1963 leading manufacturers of profes- Peter has a wealth of experience sional grinding equipment. and has been involved with many Peter was previously the compa- innovative changes in the indus- ny's US Territory Manager for try," says Stephen Bernhard, Western North America. Managing Director. He has been responsible for busi- A Trade Member of BIGGA for ness and field support to over 25 years Peter numbers many distributor salesmen supplying UK Greenkeepers as his friends. Have your say and help BIGGA grow
BIGGA is big - and getting bigger! Associates, a specialist golf research If you are contacted by Mike or one We want that growth to continue, company which carried out a similar of his colleagues, please do spare a and we have therefore commissioned study for the Sports Turf Research few minutes to pass on your views an independent market research Institute in 1999. and suggestions. study, with two aims: Mike will be sending questionnaires If you do NOT receive a call or a to about 2000 BIGGA members, and questionnaire (since these will only We want to know what our members, talking to representatives of golf com- go to a random sample of members), and those with whom we work most panies jrolfing organisations, and golf and you would like to participate in closely in the golf industry, think of clubs. The survey work will be under- the survey, please contact Mike the services we offer and the way we taken in March and April, with the full Williamson and he will be delighted deliver them. research report going to the to include you. Mike can be con- tacted at: We are also looking for new ideas, BIGGA Board in June. particularly in the areas of sales and We do want (and I'm sure we will marketing, so that we can protect get!) frank opinions and good ideas MW Associates, PO Box 6677, Edinburgh, and enhance the income base on from as many of our members, clients, EH14 3YB Tel/Fax: 0131 476 6677 which our continuing growth and those we work with as possible. So: e-mail: [email protected] depends. If you receive a questionnaire from Mike, please do complete and return We want BIGGA to get better as well BIGGA The study is being financiallysup - it. BIGGA is YOUR Association, and as bigger - so please do help us with this important research. ported by the R&A, and will be carried we very much want your input to this % % out by Mike Williamson, of MW study Neil Thomas, Executive Director
John Shaw Machinery host seminar series Graham launches internet project Toro dealer John Shaw Machinery staged a series of one-day seminars A new greenkeeping website designed to assist all those involved www.golfingsupplies.net. has been with the maintenance of sports and launched by Graham Pickin, Head golf turf throughout the area it serves Greenkeeper of Thornhurst Manor, across southern England. Doncaster. For the three events, titled Sports "The net has plenty of greenkeeping Turf Maintenance - the Future, the resources, but they are a little bit frag- firm, based in Sussex, brought togeth- mented. I thought it would be a good er a group of top speakers that attracted idea if I could browse other green- a large attendance from golf and keeping web sites including golf courses groundscare professionals. and suppliers, also join in with a dis- Eddie Seaward, Head Groundsman cussion forum and possibly find a at The All-England Club, Wimbledon, bargain in a golf course equipment auc- gave the keynote address. He told the tion or even get rid of some old interesting story behind the redevel- machines that are lying around the opment of the Wimbledon complex sheds all in one sit," explained Graham. and provided delegates with a person- The site is completely free and no al insight into his turf preparations for monies are passed through the site at The Championships. all. At the auction the successful bidder The other expert speakers were Andy has the sellers details sent to them auto- Brown, of The Toro Company; Neil matically via email. Squires, from the STRI; health and safety consultant John Albutt, of John Top level changes at All butt Associates; and John Pictured at Kings Hill GC are, from left, David Cole and Miranda Meadon from John Shaw Westrope, Humberclyde Groundscare Machinery, with Eddie Seaward, Neil Squires, John Westrope and Andy Brown British Seed Houses Finance. The audience was made up of a cross- Mailing, Kent; The Wentworth Club; has focused on the professional turf British Seed Houses has announced section of head greenkeepers, their staff and Singing Hills GC, Albourne, West maintenance market. Their new com- two senior management changes at its and senior golf club officials, as well as Sussex. pany slogan was Providing Solutions Lincoln head office. British Seed groundsmen from the sports turf side John Shaw's marketing director For Groundscare Professionals and it Houses director Simon Taylor becomes of the industry. David Cole hosted the events. He said was against this background that they unit manager for the Lincoln-based Venues were Kings Hill GC, West that since its inception his company had put on these seminars. operation with overall responsibility for all seed business done from the site. Jon Chippendale becomes amenity seeds manager and is now responsible www.tonyhusband.co.uk Royal Inverdivot GC... for all grass seed, wild flora and granu- lar fertiliser sales into the amenity VJe oee.d a neW, l'l\ zV\o\rsJ ^oO sector. Vy>l^ Cubbrn^ nqacKin^ IT* Apology for email address error In last month's magazine under the heading Grand Tour Scholarship 2001 we listed Bettina Schrickel's email address incorrectly It should have read [email protected] and not ftjbetti- [email protected] as we listed at the end of the piece. Apologies for any inconve- nience caused. Angus Horticulture Awards presented to Textron dealers launch new range
Angus Horticulture are the manufac- Broderick Grass Machinery Ltd has turers of the "Turf Rise" range of fertilisers. won the Textron Distributor of the Year The programmed approach has been Award for 2000. devised by the "FACTS" qualified per- Noel Broderick, (pictured top) Dealer sonnel of the company to allow Principal, accepted the silver trophy greenkeepers and groundsmen to look and commemorative plaque from after their turf to a high standard with Harold Pinto, Textron Golf, Turf and optimum input Specialty Product's Managing Director, Turf Rise Spring spread at 50 grams /sq. and former three times world motor metre will get the grass off to a good start racing champion Jackie Stewart, at an in the spring. Turf Rise Summer is in gran- evening awards ceremony held at The ular or liquid form applied 4 - 5 times Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate during throughout the season, timing depending BTME. on the demands of the management of Textron dealers from the UK, Eire and the course, greens, pitches and Turf Rise Europe attended the ceremony, which Autumn applied in September - October recognised business excellence in all with enough potash to harden up the turf areas. TH White Ltd of Tetbury in ready for the rigours of winter. Gloucestershire, scooped two awards as Made with raw materials including sea- did European dealers Svenningsens of weed powder and lignite which helps the Denmark. cation exchange in the soil, the "Turf Rise" "Broderick's have demonstrated range gives the greenkeeper the best exceptional performance across all areas chance to manage his turf in an efficient of their business and tremendous com- and effective way, producing his greens to mitment to the Textron franchise with the satisfaction of players and committee the recent opening of their new premis- alike. The following is a list of some of es in Co Tipperary They thoroughly the distributors throughout the U.K and deserve the title of Textron Distributor Europe. of the Year," said Harold Pinto. A special award for Outstanding Service to the Grounds Maintenance Phil joins namesake Industry was presented to Len Breakwell, (pictured bottom) of ET With a name like Seedhouse, Phil was Breakwell Ltd, the Solihull-based destined to work for a seed company. Textron dealership. The company cele- The latest member to join the Johnsons brated 60 years of trading in 2000,40 Sport and Amenity team, Phil has an of those as a dealer for Ransomes turf easy job of attracting customers. They maintenance equipment. all want to talk about his name! Phil plays a very supportive role to the team, £150 BIGGA dealing with inquiries and processing voucher for orders. He has completed the STRJ residen- Vi tax winner, tial course "The passport to per- Alan Court fect courses" and can act with authority when One of the first duties of Clive advising cus- Osgood, as the new Chairman of BIG- tomers on mixture selection. GA, was to make a draw on the Vitax He is very confident about the range stand for a £150 voucher for BIGGA he is selling. "Johnsons Sport and merchandise. The lucky recipient was Amenity range of grass seed mixtures Alan Court of Bradley Hall Golf Club, represents the best choice for turf grass. Halifax, who gained an extra benefit From rugby pitches to golf courses, the from attending the BTME exhibition. new range can cope with the best of Alan (left) is pictured being presented British sport and the worst of British with his voucher by Gary Potter, weather." quotes Phil. Technical Representative of Vitax. Advanta Seeds aim for Headstart with first Internet site
Advanta Seeds UK has launched its first Internet web- has chelated trace elements, which are readily available tions, and also provides a quick and easy way to con- site at www.headstart-advanta.co.uk. to the young seedling. Water attractants draw moisture tact us, through the response form on the last page." The clear and colourful pages, which are easy to nav- from the soil to help the start-up process. igate, explain the features or Headstart - the biological "Headstart is particularly useful where groundsmen seed treatment applied to all Advanta's amenity grass and greenkeepers are under time, or weather pressure, seeds. to establish new swards or repair existing ones," Seeds treated with Headstart emerge faster and explained Advanta's Amenity Sales and Marketing stronger than untreated seeds. The seedlings also have Manager Dave Phillips. an improved natural resistance to diseases, and are less "With so much work postponed from the autumn prone to drought stress. and the rain continuing to fall, Headstart could make The treatment, which is non-toxic and completely all the difference between success and failure, for any safe, contains only natural substances including reseeding work carried out this spring. cytoldnins and enzymes. These encourage cell division, "We want our customers to know what Headstart is and help mobilise rood reserves within the seed. It also and what it can do. The website will answer any ques- A CLOSER LOOK
Friends and Foes... under the microscope. Crippling turf diseases like Fusarium Patch, Red Thread, and Dollar Spot are easy prey to the systemic fungicide Rimidin*. Having both a protective and curative action, Rimidin is fast acting, long lasting, reliable and cost effective. Yet Rimidin has been proven safe to those all-important beneficial soil bacteria. Take a closer look.
Rigby Taylor Limited, Rigby Taylor House, Garside Street, Bolton, Lancashire BL1 4AE. Tel: (01204) 394888 Fax: (01204) 398379. Further details FREEFONE 0800 424 919. Rimidin contains fenarimol. *Rimidin is a trade mark of Dow AgroSciences. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. USE PESTICIDES SAFELY. Volunteers required!
Volunteers required for the following events:
Volvo PGA Championship, The Wentworth Club, May 25-28, 2001 The Association will again be pro- viding a support team for this prestigeous event, this year, for the first time, it will operate on each of the four competition days. Each team member will be allocated a match and will walk the course with the game, raking any bunkers found by the players. In addi- tion, should adverse weather conditions prevail, you may be required to assist the Wentworth greenkeeping staff in keeping the Rolawn, Europe's largest cultivated turf producers have signed a long-term haulage contract with K & J Logistics Ltd. K & J who are based course playable. in York have worked with Rolawn since 1997. They have a 40 strong fleet of trailers of which three trailers will carry the Rolawn livery. You will be responsible for your own "Our customers demand a delivery service which matches the quality of our turf - it has to be the best available. In order to maintain this transport arrangements to tne course level of service we require more commitment and specialised equipment than ever before," said Paul Dawson, Rolawn's Operations Director. and there is no provision for overnight accommodation. You may apply to help on any or all days and usually all Royal Mid Surrey those who apply are given the chance Moore aim to give 'more' to participate on at least one day. GC appoint Inturf When applying please give details of your polo shirt size as this may be pro- mower for your money as turf supplier vided together with daily meal vouchers. Inturf has produced turf that exactly Helping at this event will not preju- matches the specific requirements of dice your chances of a place on The Royal Mid Surrey Golf Club. Open Championship Support Team. Royal Mid Surrey, at Richmond, approached the York based company to The Open Championship, Royal Lytham & grow turf for a major redesign that will St Annes, July 19-22, 2001 involve the re-turfing of 36 greens. The BIGGA Greenkeeping Support Rapid establishment is essential to Team at The Open Championship will bring the holes back into pay quickly, be involved in early morning course and to minimise loss of green fee rev- preparation; bunker raking, while enues. matches are in play, and evening course Under its Custom Grown Turf service repair. You must be available from Inturf imports prescribed rootzone and Wednesday evening, July 18, through seed that matches the conditions where to the close of play on Sunday, July 22. the turf will eventually be laid. The While all transport, accommodation company then grows it for the client, and meals will be provided between strictly following the highest standards these dates it is the team member's of turf management. For Royal Mid responsibility for travel from home to Surrey Inturf is growing the turf on a the venue and return. When applying USGA specification rootzone. The please give your polo shirt size. Club has selected the grass mixture Full BIGGA members only may itself, choosing varieties that will give apply in writing, for either or both of With the Moore Mower now in full file makes hand loading easy; for unload- an equally proportioned bent/fescue these events to: John Pemberton, BIG- production, with both its 36" cylinder ing, the body is tipped hydraulically to sward. The project at Grantham GA HOUSE, Aldwark Alne, York, and 44" rotary mower heads, it is not a vertical position and will empty com- involves growing some 20,000 m2 of Y061 1UF. Should you require any surprising that Frank Moore is busy pletely in a few seconds, making the turf - enough to cover about three soc- furthir information John can be con- adding attachments to his innovative whole operation extremely quick, espe- cer pitches. tacted on 01347 833800 or via email: brainchild. cially where the load must be carried Royal Mid Surrey's turf is currently [email protected] Now a novel Dumpbarrow has gone some distance. being cared for at the 350-acre The Wentworth support team will into production. A practical means of A prototype has been in use for sev- Grantham nursery by seven of Inturf's be co-ordinated by the BIGGA South shifting materials such as hardcore, bal- eral years and has shifted tens of tons turf management experts. They are East Region and Derek Farrington, the last, builder's sand, soil or manure, the of various materials, often at confined implementing a strict greenkeeping Regional Administrator, is available to attachment can be fitted to the Moore and otherwise inaccessible sites. RRP for regime, with much of the work being offer help or information. Derek can Mower in a couple of minutes with min- the attachment is £396+VAT. done by hand. Their final task will be be contacted on 01903 260956 or imal effort. For further information contact Frank to harvest the special turf, ready for mobile 07850 162401. Designed to carry 100kg, its low pro- Moore, telephone 01308 862653. installation. ESD Waste2Water launch new recycling system ESD Waste2 Water launched their new A range of capacity sizes are available Recycling Wash-Off System for Golf to suit wash-off requirements from a small Course Equipment at BTME. 9 hole course up to a 54 hole golf com- The system is installed as part of the plex and beyond. wash-off facility, replacing traditional With environmental consideration of Interceptors etc. The contaminated water everything we do now so important, the is biologically cleaned and recycled for benefit of this new closed-loop system, continual re-use, potentially saving very which saves very significant amounts of significant amounts of water. water and at the same time removes a The system provides a rapid breakdown number of major potential contamination of Organic contaminants including; areas, makes this one of the most excit- Oil, Grease, Petrol, Diesel, Pesticides, ing developments for some time. Fungicides etc., into Carbon Dioxide and For more information contact Tim Water. Earley Tel. 01782 373 878. ÜVMLBAG MAlLBAn Address your letters to The Editor, Greenkeeper International, BIGGA HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York Y061 1UF, or email them to [email protected]
Plea for help The best ever BTME attracts praise from MG from Belgrade I wish to personally thank all the representatives now housed in excellent talked to well over 100 greenkeepers & I would like to acquaint you with BIGGA staff for the tremendous organ- indoor facilities, conducive to discussion several dozen trade members. I dicussed my profession and some of the prob- isation of the education conference & between trade & customers. The new issues with greenkeepers from several lems in our country in this respect. I BTME show. I have attended several in hall proved to be an attractive addition parts of Europe, includinuding Denmark~ , am an assistant at the Faculty of the past decade & I thought this to be to previous exhibition space. Sweden, Switzerland, Germany & Forestry Department of Landscape the best to date. It has become a piquant, The keynote speaker certainly left no Poland, alongside American, Canadian Architecture. landmark event which all greenkeepers one sleeping in the aisles. I'm sure every- & Australian superintendents. The My subject is Management and should aspire to attend. one's heart missed a beat or two after knowledge gained from these encoun- Maintenance of Lawns and, in our I found the education conference con- the crackle of the 'sonic boom' on video. ters would take several months to country, it is still in the phase of devel- tained both theatre (Human Resource His connection of integrated teamwork assimilate from books etc & it is all com- opment. Unfortunately, I am the first Management) & a most insightful required for success is me integral recipe pletely free to those who can person who defended a Master of update on environmental concerns necessary at all golf courses around the communicate to improve themselves & Sciences degree in this field and throughout day 2. The holistic approach world. impart their experience to others. In the nobody has ever defended a doctor- to sound environmental management is The theme for members to get end this makes those that attend richer al dissertation dealing with Lawns. a theme which will become common involved with CPD proves that as an for the experience & will help to make My obligation to the Faculty and place in forthcoming years. The fact that industry we are carving our future in line them better greenkeepers / managers at also my desire is to prepare the the- only a handful of greenkeepers knew with the very best in other areas of all levels. sis in such a way that it has multiple what a SWOT analysis is, proves there employment. This will be very impor- I hope this may inspire other green- benefits. was knowledge to be gained from Martin tant in ensuring the future security for keepers to attend in the coming years & Moreover, I would like to tell you, Gunns presentation. all greenkeepers, whatever their educa- discover for themselves what a great that in my country we haven't even The SWOT analysis will soon become tional achievements attained to date. experience this week can be & thereby got a Golf Course. Concern for this a very important management tool, The greatest aspect for me at the sport is presence. I think, in the close enabling greenkeepers to clarify infor- National Education Conference/BTME future, my country will need to make mation for their respective clubs in all is the communication of recent experi- all proud to be members. the first Golf Course in Yugoslavia. areas of concern. ences, ideas, strengths &. weaknesses Because of that and my concern for The entire BTME has become a between greenkeepers themselves. Over David Winterton, CMS,MG. Management and Maintenance of springboard for new products with the the 4'/2 days I attended, I must have Lawns as well as Golf Course, I would like to be trained in this way. Since my country who's been in war John wishes and long-standing isolation, I haven't BTME thanks financial possibility for cost of some team best course. In some occurrence I am I wanted to express my thanks and ready to learn and work in order to wishes for 2001 appreciation tor the hospitality I received pay, cover cost of course. University while at the BTME 2001. This was my of Belgrade and me like assistant have After 11 years at Golfclub Neuhof first trip to the UK and I was quite pleased minor financial facilities. near Frankfurt I have moved to Golf Park with warm reception that was extended. Thank you very much in anticipa- Gut Wissmannshof in Staufenberg, Everyone was very warm and friendly dur- tion. Looking forward to hearing Niedersachsen. ing our visit. A special thanks to Ken and from you. I would like to wish all the lads a good Sami for their help and support. season for 2001. Hopeflully a return visit will be possible Nenad Stavretovic, M.Sc. and a chance to make additional friends. Faculty of Forestry, Department of Stuart receives his award from Sir Landscape Architecture, University of John MacKay, Gut Wissmannshof 2A Michael Bonallack and Elliott Small Belgrade, Kneza, Viseslava 1, 11030 Stuart Cagle CGC, MG 34355 Staufenberg, Germany Belgrade, Yugoslavia
BIGGA gets familiar with industry professionals
A one day course designed to famil- Director of Hayter, then gave a talk on iarise members of the trade with BIGGA the Trade's, ana his own, view of green- and the wider golfing industry was held keeping and greenkeepers. at BIGGA HOUSE at the end of The afternoon session offered an February opportunity for greenkeepers to give the Attended by several people relatively audience an appreciation of their work. new to the industry as well as a num- Philip Taylor, Course Manager, at ber of more established industry figures Alwoodley Golf Club in Leeds talked on the day was an excellent opportunity for his work on a members' golf club while an exchange of information. Andy Campbell MG, Golf Courses and The morning consisted of a look at Estates Manager, Carden Park Hotel BIGGA's membership and education and Golf Resort, spoke on life on a pro- initiatives as well as a tour round the prietary-owned development. many other bodies and Associations The day closed with an Open Forum within the game of golf itself. at which many issues pertinent to the Kim Macfie, Sales and Marketing industry were discussed. This month, BIGGA'S Education and Training Manager, Ken Richardson, looks at the future of Education and Training and asks you to get involved
1 ^trodfì 3lVOdO ^ Greenkeeper Education and Education and Training - The future Development ? BIGGA has been offering its mem- take part in Life Long Learning so that Level 3, however, continuing training, BIGGA Fund bers the chance to take part in they can adapt their skills to the require- eg First Aid, Chainsaw, Spraying etc GOLDEN KEY and SILVER KEY education and training since it was ments of today's golf courses. may be required. Does BIGGA have a CIRCLES formed in 1987. The majority of new- Anyone who attended the Annual training role here? comers to greenkeeping are now trained General Meeting in Harrogate in For those wanting to progress to Level The Fund provides the key to the future for greenkeeper, golf club and and assessed to meet the National January, would have heard Neil talk 3 do we need to 'drip feed' training or game. Individuals and companies can Standards of NVQ Level 2 in about the changes that were due to take are they ready to take on the higher lev- join the Golden Key Circle and Silver Sportsturf and some progress to Level place in the coming months with edu- el tasks and duties and prove Key Circle. For details, please 3 Sportsturf Maintenance and Level 4 cation and training being just one area competence. Does BIGGA have a train- contact BIGGA on 01347 833800 Sportsturf Management. where change may take place. ing role here? Others take the more academic route This is your chance to have your say If they are ready to move to the next TEXTRON K'jbofo and study for HNC/HND in Golf to determine what education and train- Level then a training provider can offer TURF CARE PRODUCTS Course Management with some mov- ing should be offered by BIGGA, where the appropriate underpinning knowl- ing on to study for a first degree. Those should it be, how much should it cost edge and skills training, nowever, who have attained a formal qualifica- and how long should it last. assessment should be done at work. tion should not sit back and stop Think about where you fit into the Some greenkeepers may wish to con- learning, as learning should be contin- model shown below and contact me or tinue at this Level and not progress to ued throughout your career. Sami, your Section Secretary, your Level 4, however, continuing training, Regional will be required. Does BIGGA have a I Administrator, your training role here? Continuing Course Manager or For those wanting to progress to Level HAYTER Greenkeeper Development • any member of 4 do we need to 'drip feed' training or Training BIGGA staff and let are they ready to take on the higher lev- Redexim us know what you el tasks and duties and prove RaJM^BWD want. competence. Does BIGGA have a train- Continuing The model shows ing role here? Development ¡ * that entry to green- If they are ready to move to this next ma Level of entry '-a depends on Continuing keeping may be for Level then a training provider can offer Experience Development EEE3 and skills those already hold- the appropriate underpinning knowl- m ing an academic edge and skills training, nowever, Training -] Provider j qualification or by assessment should be done at work. those not yet quali- Once reaching this Level, continuing Golden Key Circle Company Members ''j Continuing fied. training is still required4 ". Doe" s B"GGL A X " Development j 1 Company Tel: Head Office • Unqualified have a trainining roli *e here? entrants should be Entrants with academic qualifications Amazone Ground Cane 01579 351155 Trainee/ induction/oi Training Continuing Bernhard and Company Ltd 01788 811600 Apprentice £ job training W Provider Development given induction also need induction training and will training eg. health need to prove competence before doing Charterhouse Turf Machinery Ltd 01428 661222 and safety, working unsupervised work. Where they fit into Gem Professional 01254 356611 Training providers are now starting to hours, holidays, pay, pension, golf eti- the model depends on experience and John Deere Ltd 01949 860491 offer what the industry has been quette, uniform, communications with skill level. Nevertheless, they will need Hayter Ltd 01279 723444 requesting through the GTC for some golfers etc and on the job training. They continuing training and development. Kubota UK Ltd 01844 214500 time, for example distance learning and could also be sent to a training provider Does BIGGA have a training role here? Massey Fergusen (AGCO Ltd) 02476 851292 at work learning and assessment, so who would give them the appropriate BIGGA and the GTC are committed PGA European Tour 01344 842881 that greenkeepers continue to develop underpinning knowledge and skills to life long learning by encouraging golf Rain Bird 01273 891326 their careers. training. Does BIGGA have a training clubs and greenkeepers to 'buy into' the Rigby Taylor Ltd 01204 394888 BIGGA introduced its Continuing role here? training options available. Training at Scotts UK Professional 01473 830492 Professional Development Scheme in Some greenkeepers may wish to con- the appropriate level is available to all Textron Turf Care 01473 270000 2000, to encourage greenkeepers to tinue as assistants and not progress to greenkeepers. Use it or fall behind. The Toro Company/Lely UK 01202 319987
Individual Members • • - The BIGGA Golf The TORO Award for The TORO Student of the Mike Eastwood, J H Fry, J H Greasley, David S Robinson, Stuart Townsend Environment Competition Excellence in Year Competition Following a major Greenkeeping Now in its twelfth year, the ERNEST reorganisation, Amazone The TORO Award for search to find the TORO Ground Care have, Excellence in Greenkeeping Student of the Year has DOE & SONS LTD sisis unfortunately, withdrawn their sponsorship Competition is now open to Head begun. Competition details and entry forms of the BIGGA Golf Environment Greenkeepers/Course have been sent to colleges and training Competition. However, with support from Managers/Superintendents in the whole of providers and all entries should reach 11 Heath Lambert Group the R&A, the Competition will run as normal the United Kingdom and the Republic of BIGGA HQ by 11 May 2001. The main this year. Information leaflets are being sent Ireland. With prizes like a TORO Workman points of the competition are: to all golf clubs in Britain during March and 2100 Utility Vehicle and a two week trip to requests for entry forms need to be the USA, plus TORO Greensmaster 1000 1. The winner receives the TORO I0CMIS returned to BIGGA House by 12 April. pedestrian mower for Runners up in the scholarship to the USA and visits to the Entry forms will be sent to interested clubs National Final plus £250 for the winner's TORO factories and to the GCSAA Silver Key Circle Company Members by return. You should be thinking about your greenkeeping team. Additionally, each conference and show in Orlando. Company Tel: Head Office entry NOW. The competition is designed to country finalist ie those in England, Ireland, reward those clubs that integrate ecological Scotland and Wales will receive a plaque 2. The winner's greenkeeping lecturer Ernest Doe & Sons 01254 380311 management with normal golf course and a framed certificate. wins a visit to the GCSAA conference Heath Lambert Ltd 0113 246 1313 management practices to ensure that golf The Winner in 2000 was Ian Ritchie from and show in Orlando. Ocmis Irrigation 01460 241939 and the environment are compatible. Why Portmarnock Golf Club in Ireland. This year Sisis Equipment Ltd 01625 503030 not enter? Your club could win the first prize could be your turn. 3. The two runners - up win an all Weed Free 07000 481011 of £4,000, a runners up prize of £500 or a Application forms will be sent to all head expenses paid visit to the Learning special prize for the best environmental greenkeepers/course manager/ Experience 2002 at Harrogate. Individual Members project. All clubs visited by the judges will superintendents in Great Britain and Ireland, Clive A Archer, John Crawford, Bruce Cruickshank, be offered the chance to purchase a copy of during March, but if you need a copy then 4. Regional finals will be held in six Douglas G Duguid, Alan Holmes, lain A MacLeod, the detailed report on their course, which contact BIGGA HQ. Return your application locations during late June and up to Robert Maibusch MG, Richard S Mullen, Elliott R will also include an action plan. If you do not as soon as possible to reach BIGGA HOUSE eight students will be selected for the Small, Steven Tiemey, Raymond J Warrender, WJ receive your leaflet then contact BIGGA for British entries or the GCSAI for Irish National Final which will take place on Rogers, Kenneth Jones HOUSE. entries by 27 April 2001. 29 and 30 October 2001. Professional mowers for professional users Finishing Mowers /1.2m, 1.5m, 1.8m and 2.4m widths / 3 overlapping rotors /Swinging blade tips /Fully floating linkage system Compact Flail Mowers free / From 0.8m to 2.07m widths »em ons trat /Offset or in-line models /3 flail types for varying applications
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Scottish Region Steven Stewart Gilbert, E Midland Northern Ireland Daniel Gilbert, Mid Anglia It pays to stay healthy Dudley Aitchison, Central James Edward Goodall, Mid Anglia Roderick Mcgladery, Paul William Black, East James Head, BB&O Michael Coleman, David Richard Blair, Ayrshire Allan Malcolm Holdon, E of England Graham Brand, Central Darryl Keen, BB&O International Members For 2001 BIGGA have joined this way, you will always have the Alan Alexander Breen, Central Ashley Knott, Mid Anglia forces with Westfield Health funds to pay for dental treatment, Victoria Cavinue, West Lee Paul Mitchell, E Midland David Raymond Baker, Austria glasses or contact lenses, physio- Richard James Colley, Central Jason Simms, Midland Mark Timberlake, Germany Scheme to bring you a specially Adam Strong, BB&O therapy and a whole host of other Graham Stuart Dawson, North B T Wainscott, Holland designed health care plan. You can James Dowie, Central Keith Brian Sulman, E Midland Terje Haugen, Norway treatments, including consultation Derek James Downie, Central Kristian Robert Summerfield, BB&O Peter Whitworth, Portugal choose a plan that most suits your by a specialist. By ensuring that you Alexander John Latto, Central Edward Thompson, Mid Anglia Ingvar Fjellman, Sweden lifestyle, to cover you for the cost have the funds, you can ensure that Peter Donald McVicar, West Daniel Walker, Mid Anglia Kent Hedberg, Sweden of minor medical treatments not James Peace, North Gary Martin Wiltshire, BB&O Rolf Von Avx, Switzerland Caroline Ann Ross, North Christopher Phillip Young, Midland Waldemar Szadny, Poland normally covered by the NHS. In you have the treatment when you Ryan Ross, North Kenneth Burlinson, USA most need it, as opposed to when Stuart Anderson Russell, Central South East Region Douglass P Larson, USA you can afford it. Check out your David Robert Smith, Central Charles Tadge, USA Kevin Bacon, Sussex membership pack for full details Northern Region Simon Darren Bonner, Surrey Corporate Members and an application form. Tony George Brookman, Surrey Special offer for all BIGGA Peter Eric Aldridge, Northern Steve John Brown, Kent David Eccles, East hcpc^S Dean Bagley, Sheffield Ian John Brown, Sussex Peter Dale, N West ..St^S Members, join straight away and Harold Bayliff, N West Daniel Burn, Surrey Brian Jones, N West receive immediate benefit from the Gavin Nigel Beacham, N West William Easton, London Ashley Oakes, N West Alec Beard, N West Ben Edwards, Surrey Martin Smith, N West 1st of the following month* (nor- Jonathan Colin Betts, N West David Edwards, Sussex mally six month waiting period). Alistair James Bolch, Sheffield Kevin Lee Finch, Kent Associate Members * Pre-existing conditions are Joseph Cassell, Sheffield Michael Gahern, Surrey Neil David Clarkson, Northern Paul Harrington, Surrey Christopher Peter Cay, Northern excluded from this offer for all Andrew Charles Cox, Northern Simon John King, E Anglia Kevin Belluz, E Anglia grants Since BIGGA relaunched its website in June last year, register (if you are new to the Bulletin Board), or we have been constantly updating and adding new Login, if you have previously registered. and improved content for members and visitors alike. Once you have completed the registration process, As part of our continual programme of improvement you can login, and go to the Home Page of the we are now proud to announce the launch of our Bulletin Board. From here you can organise your brand new Time to Talk' Bulletin Board. This service home page to meet your own requirements and will enable all Greenkeeping members of BIGGA to select and view any of the discussions ongoing. You discuss any topic of interest relevant to their can create a new topic, or reply to an existing one. profession, online. How about; Whatever your question, BIGGA's Time to Talk' Bulletin Board is the place to ask it. So visit Getting help and advice from fellow members? www.bigga.org.uk and login to the members How do I chat online? Renewing friendships with colleagues? area for an exciting and communicative Time to Talk' is located in the BIGGA Sharing ideas and challenges online? experience! website Members' Area, and can be accessed by logging into the Greenkeeper Members Area. Simply enter your surname and date of birth, and once in the Members' Area, click on the Bulletin Board icon. A second window will automatically open, from where you can either Visit us online at www.bigga.org.uk EVERGREENS UK Tel: 01572 768208 Four Weeks www.evergreensuk.com The time you could save to establish new turf Quicker Establishment Improved Performance • Reduced Stress Levels • Deeper Rooting 3yr guarantee to 6 yr life expectancy Environmentally Friendly Winter Tee Mats and Frames available in assorted sizes and surfaces. Call now for samples, brochure and price list. No 2 Extons Units, Market Overton Industrial Estate, Market Overton, For full Nr Oakham LEI 5 7PP Telephone 01405 704 840 Fax: 01572 768261 Fern House Marketing Ltd. The Fernery, Reedness, Goole, DN14 8EW. Available from any leading Golf Course Supplier Tel: 01405 704 840 Fax: 01405 704 850 e-mail:[email protected] ® Vamlnoc-G is a registered trademark of the MicroBio Group Ltd www.evergreensuk.com e-mail: [email protected] BAREINE Perennial Ryegrass • Extremely fine-leafed cultivar • Very slow re-growth • Superb low maintenance • Blends extremely well with fine-leafed species • Outstanding tolerance to close mowing APPLICATIONS • Golf: tees, fairways, (semi) roughs and greens • Turf production • Cricket: wickets, squares, outfields • Tennis courts • Ornamental lawns Bariene is available in the following mixtures; BAR PLATINUM, BAR EXTREME and BAR 6. For more information, contact Barenbrug on 01359 272000. •BARENBRUG Barenbrug UK Ltd., 33 Perkins Road, Rougham Industrial Estate, Bury St.Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9ND Tel:01359 272000 Fax:01359 272001 E-mail:sales@ba ruk.co.uk www.barenbrug.co.uk Past BIGGA Chairman, Dean Cleaver, now os o administrator for FEGGA, takes a personal % SS ^ look at the GCSAA Show in Dallas A triumph in On arriving at Dallas/Fort Worth, it following Sunday. There are a total than took a further 10 minutes to dri- of 119 seminars and workshops, cov- ve out of the airport. The size of the ering all aspects of golf course airport in actual area was quite amaz- management, including agronomy, ing, being larger than the island of business communication, golf course Manhattan. I suppose that's not sur- management and personal/profes- prising, as Texas is larger than France, sional development. There are also Belgium, Holland, Switzerland and discussion groups held during the Luxembourg combined. week and also a complete afternoon Dallas ranks among the top cities session given by the USGA Green in the nation for convention and Section covering all aspects of their Desert Shield and Desert Storm. meeting attendees, with more than research programmes. I than moved onto the Rain Bird 3.8 million people attending more For me the first event was to attend reception held at the exotic Dallas than 3,600 conventions, leaving the GCSAA's opening session at the Aquarium. What a great place to hold more than $4.2 billion behind. Adams Mark Hotel, this is one of a reception, winding your way I arrived in Dallas on Wednesday, Dallas's premier hotels, and an excel- through the Rain forests sipping a February 14, ready for a busy four lent venue to start their 75 th cool beer, eating the finest ribs and days, the GCSAA show is the biggest anniversary The evening was to cel- meeting with old friends, the perfect Superintendents show in the world ebrate lifetime achievements for end to a very long day. Time I head- and attracts 23,000 attendees over three Superintendents, also the win- ed back to the hotel. the week. ner of the Leo Feser award and the Thursday saw the opening of the The week had actually started on National golf tournament. We were exhibition and anyone visiting the the previous weekend with their also able to view the GCSAA show for the first time will be hit by annual Golf Tournament. The tour- Foundation video, this showed the the enormous size, coupled with the nament was played over three days, benefits golf was enjoying through luxurious layout of the exhibition, with 700 competitors playing over six the work of the foundation. The year featuring some 700 exhibitors. The different golf courses. 2000 saw the foundation raise some Dallas Convention Centre's expan- Now if you're looking for educa- $4.5 million. The evening concluded sion for the year 2002 will feature the tion, this show certainly offers choice. with the keynote speech given by world's largest 203,000 square-foot, The seminars and workshops start on General H. Norman Schwarzkopf Jr, singular column-free exhibit hall in the Sunday and run through to the remembered as the hero of operations the world. -iUt,] '«it'aáBI '--•»Ml -•••«•I "Hill ••»«•»I One new feature to the Dallas show tainly should be a well-received prod- Award, the Presidents Award for receive media attention. was to split the main exhibition from uct within the industry Environmental leadership and the Superintendents are interviewed the GCSAA's services, allied Rain Bird featured some new prod- Environmental Stewards Awards will weekly on PGA Tour radio, and the Associations and education. This area ucts, one being the new remote video be honoured, and attendees can role of the superintendent was fea- being called the GCSAA Park proved display unit (RVDU). Rain Bird claim enjoy a motivational talk from an tured on a segment of the PGA Tour to be most successful. this as a first within the irrigation American hero in the name of Capt. television show "Get Golf with the The services offered by the GCSAA industry, featuring a remote visual Scott O'Grady. PGA Tour" featured last summer. are considerable, and really are too display capable of real-time field irri- The Old Tom Morris award is GCSAA fact sheets are now included many to list in this article. However gation control. The RVDU further GCSAA's highest honour, and is in PGA Tour mailing to the media to give you an idea, it takes 90 integrates Rain Bird's state of the art, awarded each year to an individual and are distributed to the media at GCSAA staff to cover all activities at map based central control technolo- who, "through a continuing lifetime all PGA Tour tournament sites. the show. gy into the superintendent's busy commitment to the game or golf, has The afternoon saw many of the Being the industries biggest show, schedule by providing the freedom of helped mould the welfare of the game national Associations from around it will always be the launch pad for wireless visual access and instant sys- in a manner and style exemplified by the world attend the International new products. During the limited tem control from the place its matters Old Tom Morris." Summit. The meeting saw significant time I had to view products, I came most-the golf course. This year's winner is Tim Finchem changes this year, after a period of across the new Toro pedestrian 21" Thursday also sees the GCSAA hold who is the US PGA Tour dropping numbers. Canada and FEG- Flex. This machine is fully floating, their Golf General Session, this will Commissioner. Recently under his GA co-organised the event in featuring a cassette type cylinder that focus on winners and survivors. direction the US PGA Tour has conjunction with GCSAA, and at this drops straight in and out, and cer- Winners of the Old Tom Morris helped ensure that Superintendents point I should thank Vince Gilies, Joe A triumph in Texas International Resource Lounge. This Friday evening saw 1,100 people is a place where all International del- attend the President's Dinner This egates old and new can meet during has always provided an experience for the show, whether to share business anyone attending outside America, or a drink. It is also a good place to although in recent years the proceed- pick up Association magazines. ings are less formal and in my opinion Bedford and Don Brentheur who all Translators are also on hand to assist makes for a more enjoyable evening did sterling work in organising the with any translation that may be at the end of a busy show The summit. required. President's Dinner is held in honour The Summit was to look at how Thursday evening saw me braving of the GCSAA's President's past year, best we can all work together to pro- the weather to attend the European and anyone who has had the pleasure mote and represent golf course Textron reception, this is a clear indi- of meeting Scott Woodward will management on a worldwide level. It cation of the amount of Europeans know what a pleasant man he is and does not take long to realise that now attending the GCSAA show and also what a great ambassador he has despite all our cultural differences, we conference. It was again nice to meet been for the Association. all deep down have the same beliefs up with friends old and new, and to The cabaret was split into two parts; and indeed problems relating to man- share experiences on a much wider the first part held during the meal aging our golf courses. scale. With regard to braving the were the ice sculpturers, who created GCSAA had kindly contracted a weather, many of us visiting the show the GCSAA logo from ice. The sec- professional facilitator on the recom- from Europe were hoping to experi- ond part proveato be something quite mendation of both Canada and ence some nice weather considering special for all rock and roll fans. The FEGGA. Tony Nash from Canada was the wet period we have had over the band called the World Classic to carry out this duty, and a great job last five months. How disappointed Rockers, was made up of mega rock he did to extracting large chunks of we were, just as we arrived, the rains stars in their own right, stars from information from us all and we final- followed and followed and followed. groups such as the Eagles, Moody ly concluded with a list of priorities I don't know how much fell during Blues and Toto, this was truly a mem- to work with over the next 12 months, the week, however I do know that dur- orable experience to finish what was all in three and a half hours. ing the period Thursday afternoon a tremendous week - see you in A big central point for all and Friday morning five inches of rain Orlando in 2002. International visitors is the BEAGLE PROMOTIONS Scorecards • Course Measurement • Yardage Books • Tee Signs Event Boards * Leaderboards • Notice Boards • Bag Tags • Green Fee Tickets Call Philip Mclnley on : 01883 344244 email us: [email protected] visit our website @ www.eaglepromotions.co.uk GREENS Immaculate greens are the product of sheer hard work, which is why the new Mule Diesel 2510 is the envy of the fairways. Built for the toughest terrain, the Mule gives you more power, performance, load capacity and fuel efficiency and, with its low-ground pressure qualities, you won't leave any divots. • 23 hp, 3 cylinder, 4-stroke, liquid cooled, diesel engine • Automatic variable speed transmission • Dual mode differential for rear axle • Dual range gear box with selectable 4-wheel drive • 12-months warranty CALL FREE ON 0800 316 4448 NOW to put the power to work for you (Outside the UK, call +44 1666 511356) www.kawasaki.co.uk The Greenkeepers Choice... Rootzones The perfect foundation for optimum growth. Quality is assured through Top Dressings on-site laboratory testing. Combining technology and quality. All dressings are heat treated and mixed to specific requirements. 800 TONNES AVAILABLE DAILY DELIVERY WITHIN 24 HOURS BATHGATE SILICA SANDS LTD Ardid Quarry, Congleton Road, Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 4SN Tel: 01270 762828, Fax: 01270 760557 Paula Humphries previews Westurf 2001, the third year the Show has been held at the Westpoint Arena in Exeter Westurrevisitef d WESTURF central arena will provide entertain- Exeter on March 13th. The three ment. This year sees the welcome course meal will be followed by enter- return of the Adams Axe Men, a fast tainment and the cost is £50 p.p. display of rustic skills combined with sharing or £75 single room to include a lot of humour. The Heart of dinner, b & b ana entertainment. England Falconry team will be For further information on exhibit- demonstrating how you can use these ing, applications for pre-registration This year sees the third exhibition lovely birds in the control of rabbits. forms or to book the gala dinner, to be held in the Westpoint Arena at There will be a golf competition please contact Paula Humphries on Exeter. The show is earlier this year (indoors) and all the leading suppli- 01288 352194 as, now that we are under cover, we ers of machinery, irrigation and are experimenting with bringing the amenity products, mobile phones etc. Seminars date forward to March - hopefully will be there to meet you as will rep- Turf Management - The Microbiological before the grass has started growing resentatives from the leading colleges Route Explored - Richard Millar and Phil again and this should enable more in your area. Caunt, of Biotal greens staff to attend. Westpoint has a fully licensed bar There will be an outside arena for and a superb cafeteria. All pre-regis- Traditional Greenkeeping - Jim Arthur, the demonstration of machinery and tration forms will be put into a agronomist where machinery can be tried out by random draw for a fabulous prize. Design and Construction - Jim McKenzie, yourselves. There will be three edu- The Pre Westurf Gala Dinner will Celtic Manor Resort cational seminars during the day. A be held at the Southgate Hotel in Westurf Exhibitors Pencoed College Green Relief Bredy Irrigation Services Devon Garden Machinery The Landscape Company Sparsholt College STRI Amenity Technology Weedbusters Rigby Taylor Cannington College Scotts Links Leisure P J Flegg Orion Projects Hartpury College South Wales Golfer Logic Irrigation Lloyds of Letchworth Clifford Avoncrop Amenity Products Barenbrug Vitax Weedfree Aventis Howard Finch - Golf Symbio CR Willcocks Rochford Garden Machinery British Seed Houses Professional Amazone Lubrication Engineers Cornwall Farmers Headland Arco WT&RT Jones Ocmis Irrigation B S Mowers Bioseed Priobiotics Phoenix Irrigation Don Hatch Nurseries Synergie Products Envigro Complete Weed Control IOG Q-Lawns A F Trenchers Whitemoss Amenities FREE WESTURF TICKET HOTLINE - 01288 352194 Education & Training resource video British and Inlwnjhorta! GoH Gromkeqier, Irrigation PREMIER ALL-WEATHER The latest SURFACES FOR GOLF T>« training *fcotote a t the Why. How, Whal and M« ci Irrigation in learning resources f from BIGGA The fifth in the series of BIGGA Training Videos - Irrigation - was launched at BTME 2001. Although it may not have been apparent in recent months, water is a precious resource and extraction is becoming increasingly difficult and portfolio cover, spraying; golf expensive. At the same time course preparation; golf green irrigation is a vital tool to the construction and golf course greenkeeper and the 28 minute ecology. Huxley Golf specialises in the design, supply and video looks at using it to its best The production of this video was installation of all-weather surfaces for golf. From practice advantage with the Why, What, only possible through the How and Where of irrigation. generous support of the tees (as shown above) to putting greens, golf tees, paths, The video features interviews Association's Golden and Silver cartways and driving ranges, Huxley Golf can provide you with recognised experts in their Key Supporters who donate to with a top quality surface which looks, feels and reacts just field, graphics and film showing BIGGA's Education and like natural turf. why irrigation is needed, when to Development Fund. apply and what equipment to use. Irrigation is produced by Please contact us for a comprehensive information pack, "This video is not only of benefit Goodwood Videos, who also including a detailed professional and domestic customer list. for training greenkeepers in the produced the Golf Course Ecology art of good water management video, and is priced at £15 for and irrigation, it would also be BIGGA members and £25 for non- very useful for communicating to members. the wider golfing community," The Dean, New Alresford, Hampshire S024 9BL, United Kingdom said BIGGA's Education and Contact the BIGGA Education Training Manager, Ken Department for further details on Tel: 01962 733222 Fax: 01962 734702 Richardson. 01347 833800 or via (International Tel: + 44 1962 733222 Fax: + 44 1962 734702) The other four videos in BIGGA's [email protected] Email: [email protected] Website: www.huxleygolf.co.uk Magnet is a true chelated liquid iron, with You will not*use*a better iron. added trace elements and a surfactant leaf penetrant system. The high quality, chelated formulation moves quickly and effectively into and around the plant. There's no lock-up in the soil and, because of the non-sulphate formulation, Black Layer and associated problems do not come into the picture. Expect to see green-up within 24 hours that will last up to six weeks. Magnet MagnetChelated i Rigby Taylor Limited, Rigby Taylor House, Garside Street, Bolton, Lanes BL1 4AE. Tel: (01204) 398 379. www.rigbytaylor.com Magnet contains chelated iron (FeDPTA, FeEDTA, FeEDDHA), leaf penetrants and trace elements. Magnet is a trade mark of Rigby Taylor Limited. York Golf Club faced up to the worst weather conditions for 400 years but still completed the most successful project in the club's long history. Scott MacCallum paid the team a visit. The abiding memory for flooded and all sorts of chaos for peo- The ancient city appeared in the many of the latter part of ple attempting to travel from A to B. national headlines having battled last year and the beginning Golf also took a hammering. against the worst flooding to hit for of this was the horrendous Courses were closed for weeks, if not 400 years and only sterling work by weather - records set for months, on end with some more suit- the army, who built sand bag barri- consecutive days of rain, ed to Cowes week than the Royal and cades along the sides of the river Ouse, scenes of people perched Ancient game. prevented a much greater disaster on roofs as homes were Among the worst areas hit was York. While all this was going on the green staff at York Golf Club, located in the village of Strensall a few miles north of the city, were embarking upon the largest in-house course reconstruction programme in the club's history In succeeding they could certainly be said to have "reigned in the rain". In what is likely to be a two stage two year programme all 51 bunkers on the course are being redesigned and rebuilt to wipe out what has long been regarded as the course's weakest link. "We have a great golf course but probably the worst feature of it over the years has been the bunkers," Above: (l-r) Michael Rogers, Chris explained Howard Stephenson, who Martin and Howard Stephenson made it his mission to improve mat- ters when he became Chairman of Right: The team with their John Green last April. Deere kit "They used to become silted up and get very wet and in truth were Christmas...just around the time that hour and there are certainly jobs we the hiring of the plant; the cost of not particularly good. When I took the heaven's opened! wouldn't have been able to ao with- the gravel; blinding layers and over as Chairman of Green I felt that "The flooding affected us quite a out the pump." drainage pipes and to ensure that it was something with which we could lot because we'd planned to do cer- Michael's role was that of project timings were all agreed. make an impact on the course," he tain areas which we couldn't get to co-ordinator with responsibility for "It was difficult to work out vol- explained, as we, together with Head and had to change our programme to selecting the sand and he ensured a umes required exactly until we Greenkeeper, Chris Martin, and suit. We bought sheets of board and large number were examined before started the job but we knew a cer- Deputy, Michael Rogers, sat in the laid these down to prevent wear and the decision on the final one was tak- tain amount of materials that we'd attractive well appointed clubhouse. tear and have been very careful en. need so we got them in before we The Greens Committee met out on around the areas of the green," said "The sand was the starting point. started and they as soon as materi- the course and agreed that the Chris. It was the thing we had to get right als became low we ordered more," bunkers should be the main priority In the six weeks before Christmas so took advice from Stuart said Chris and that as well as rebuilding and the course was only open for around Ormondroyd, at Bingley, and sent "We are very fortunate in so much designing them re positioning and a week but, while this was unfortu- samples across for analysis. The rec- as we have some excellent suppliers, draining should take place wherever nate for the members, the upside was ommendation was Nottingham - who we can ring up in the morning necessary. that the team could work with very Number 6 which is a sort of tan and the material is there in the after- Howard's enthusiasm for the pro- little disruption. In fact the entire 4th colour with black specs which we noon. It means that the work never ject was matched by that of the team fairway was under two feet of water think will fit in well," revealed stops and the worst scenario is who saw it as something really to get which is unheard of for the course. Michael, who added that previously overnight for virtually anything," their teeth into. "It stayed for days then just began the sand was of an orange hue. explained Chris, who said that they "We talked about it between our- to rececle when we'd have another 'As luck would have it Sandmoor used Greenpride for rootzone, JH selves and, although we set ourselves downpour and it would all come back in Leeds had started to use the same Walker & Co for gravel and blinding some pretty stiff targets, we all felt again," said Chris. sand so we went across one morning layer sand and Lindum for turf. The that it was doable and that we would "We bought a pump to pump some to take a look. The greenkeeper there club also struck up a good relation- just crack on," explained Chris. of the water away and it's proved a was extremely happy with it," ship with the plant hire company The aim for this winter was to to very useful tool," added Michael, explained Michael. who allowed they to take machinery do 25 greenside bunkers, which they who joined the club from Royal St With the sand decided upon the on a long term loan basis. deemed to be the most important, George's last year. next task for Chris and the team was The first bunkers to be tackled were with 15 of those done by "It can pump 60-70,000 gallons an. to plan the practicalities of the job - those surrounding the 9th green, a Reigning in the Rain Equipment Inventory 2 John Deere 2243 John Deere 2653 John Deere 955 with front loader John Deere 365 Trailed hydraulic John Deere 455 Bunker rake John Deere Aerocore 6x4 Gator Iseki 4270 tractor Richard Long versatile Richard Long top dresser SISIS Technicore SISIS Slitter Thatchaway Units Hardi Spray Unit Tornado Blower Cushman ing blockages as we went before we much more confident in taking could even start the bunkers," added things on himself." Chris. It is a point which Michael elabo- venue located a mere 100 yards from Once they had overcome the ini- rates upon. Far page: One of the new bunkers the team's base. However, while that tial problems the team set about "Initially we'd get everyone's opin- complete with steps may have been the plus of the cho- planning the location and shape on ion before me moved on and we'd sen debut site, the inherent problems Above: Bunker drainage going in involved in the 9th hole made it any- the new bunkers. perhaps have too many people on the thing but the ideal starting point. "Looking back, knowing then what job at the one time but we've learned Above right: Another fine example we know now, Chris probably would- from that now," he said. "We picked the 9th because it was n't have started on the 9th but on While always working to a plan a close and we could waste very little the other hand we learned so much little bit of license because they were time toing and froing and because so quickly and the team developed aware that things could change there was a decent temporary green so many skills it was probably a good depending upon the conditions they and we could take the whole thing move," said Howard. met when they started work. out of play," explained Chris. "I see it for a slightly different per- It took them three to four weeks However.... spective as they probably don't see to complete the work on the 9th hole "Drainage was the main problem. how their performance has improved as they took their time to ensure they We were not sure where the outlet as much as I do. In the early work got it right but now, having this expe- pipes would be but luckily we found they may have been a little tentative rience under their belts they have a concrete chamber which gave us a about doing certain things whereas speeded up and the shaping is good depth for an outlet pipe. We now everyone is tuned into what we achieved which much more ease. traced this through the trees releas- are trying to do and everyone is If a nagging doubt about having bitten off more than they could chew to the bunkers now than before when By the end something will have position huge investment is made on entered Chris' mind it didn't show they could be said to have been too been done to every one of the club's giving the greenkeeping team the "If it had come to the point where symmetrical," said Chris. bunkers whether it be the installa- tools to do the job. This is illustrat- we felt we were pushing ourselves too The team has also taken the oppor- tion of drainage or a bit of reshaping. ed by the modern John Deere kit much we'd have eased off and slowed tunity to improve other hump and 'Alan Coates is our main man on whicn fills the maintenance facility. down a bit...but it never came to hollow areas surrounding the greens the digger; Robert Pilgrim is the "We are always looking for ways to that," he said. and bit in additional drainage where drainage king, only happy if he's up improve and that includes our Members were kept informed via required. to his waist in water; Philip Bradley machinery fleet," explained Howard. regular newsletters and the feedback Having achieved their pre is our turfing and shaping man while "We are all about best practice and has been very positive. Christmas target of 15 the team are apprentice Alastair Bolch can turn if we find someone doing something "We hope the members will be well on their way to hitting the win- his hand to most things. It's a team better than us we'll take it on board. pleased with all the work we've done ter programme target of another 10 effort and it can't be done without We're happy to nick ideas and hope- this winter," said Chris. and with each member of the team the work of the individuals," said fully people will do the same with For construction work that has becoming a specialist in a particular Howard, who ooses pride in the work our ideas," he explained. been carried out by the greenkeeping area the skills they have acquired will of his team. While it has been the York weath- team, being maintenance friendly has stand them in good stead for years to "It is one of the most successful er that has hit the headlines over the not been at the forefront of their come. projects the club has ever undertak- last few months it perhaps more fit- mind, although after the first year it The second phase will begin in en...it is certainly the biggest," he tingly should be the work of the hard should be more easy to maintain. September of this year while some of added. working and dedicated York Golf "There will be more fly mowing the fairway bunkers, because of their York Golf Club is extremely proud Club team who have triumphed in while the turf is given a chance to size, might well stretch into a third of its status as one of the best cours- those difficult times. knit but there is a lot more character winter. es in Yorkshire and to maintain that Roland Taylor lifts the lid, or should that be the grass bucket, on the greens mower bacShork and sidets It is easy to forget just how much damage and possible scorching of the should be carried out frequently with precision is required for a cylinder turf. The finish on the green deterio- the machine set at 5mm. Regular and bedknife to produce a high qual- rates fast. light verticutting or grooming will ity finish. The concept was originally If the reel and bedknife are "off" deal with lateral growth and help to developed by Edwin Budding from adjustment there is less chance of open up the turf to allow light and his system for cutting the nap off heat, but the same applies as far as air to penetrate and circulate. It will cloth, which was developed well over the rest of the mower is concerned, also contribute towards speeding up 170 years ago, and had to be highly and the poor quality of cut will be a green. accurate to avoid damage to the obvious. Sand or dirt can be trapped material. The environment in which between the cutting surfaces causing Moving forward it worked was clean with very few bluntness and damage. When one looks at the history of hazards, and the cloth could be kept Most modern greens mowers have cylinder mowing, it is surprising that level. These conditions are very either a 9 or 11 -bladed reel with it was almost 100 years after their unlike those in which a modern mow- optional bedknives. The number of introduction that a multi-bladed er works, which are relatively hostile. cuts (clips) per metre depends on the machine specifically designed for Dirt, dampness and abrasives abound speed of the reel and the forward greens - the Ransomes Certes - was and mowing surfaces are very rarely motion of the mower. Again adjust- introduced. This was a push model, flat. Blades can be quickly dulled and ment can affect the finish, but there in spite of the fact that motorised are sited in a position where there is are other influencing factors. These mowers had been introduced over 20 always the risk of damage. Under include slack drive belts or chains, years earlier and were being used on these conditions if a greensmower is incorrect engine speed and the vol- golf courses for cutting the fairways. not correctly looked after, things can ume of grass being removed. Greenkeepers had to struggle, push- soon go badly wrong. The height and frequency of cut ing these greensmowers until the also plays a significant role, especial- 1950's when manufacturers recog- Getting the best results ly in the speed of greens. In the past nised a potential market and As most readers are well aware the one method of overcoming the prob- introduced petrol engine models. critical factor for achieving a quality lem of a slow green was to close shave. Prior to the Second World War the finish is the reel to bedknife adjust- The adverse results this produces far need to speed up the mowing of ment. This also plays a significant outweigh any advantages and today greens was met by the introduction part in the mower's over-all perfor- it is not recommended, even as a stop of the Overgreen, which towed three mance. If the reel is set tight to its gap measure. By removing a large Certes push mowers. This machine bedknife then the result is similar to amount of the leaf area, the natural was a forerunner to the triplex mow- applying a brake and all the compo- process of photosynthesis - so vital to ers that appeared in the UK from nents are placed under extra loading. healthy plants - is drastically reduced. America in the 70s. To compensate, the engine governors The plants become weak and sus- Now, 30 years on, the high profile open up and more fuel is consumed. ceptible to disease, poa annua and that golf enjoys throughout the world In addition, heat builds up in both other weeds will become quickly has led to a plethora of greens the reel and bedknife causing further established in the thin turf. Mowing machines. The biggest decision ror Short back and sides most of today's greenkeepers is whether Personal preference to go for a walk-behind or triple mow- There are arguments for and against er and which model to buy. both these methods of mowing " r Some, or all, of the following factors greens so, at the end of the day, it are likely play an important role in help- is what best fulfils each course's ing decide which one. requirements. For some clubs, one compromise is to regularly mow with Types, size and location triples and use hand machines for of greens competitions and special events. If greens are heavily undulating, stepped, or if access is restricted, then On the market a pedestrian model is almost certainly the best choice. On large greens the Pedestrian mw't. highly manoeuvrable triple is the These come in cutting widths from ' e. ^ answer. These can also be used on small 41cm (18?) to 66cm (26?) and are greens but problems may occur if the powered by petrol engines. There is machine has to be constantly turned generally a choice of bedknife thick- on the actual playing surface because ness and ranges of optional of the surrounding landscape, such as equipment including turf groomer or banks. verticutter, rotary brush, smooth or grooved front rollers. Time and staff As we all know there are never enough Triples hours in the day, or enough members Petrol, diesel and electric powered of staff to carry out the host of tasks versions are available and working needed to keep a modern golf course widths range from 1.50 metres up to in tip-top condition. A triple can make 1.78 metres, depending on the make. considerable savings in time and labour. All cutting units are fully floating and there are ranges of alternative turf A demonstration is not only a maintenance units such as turf chance to evaluate a mower's perfor- groomers, verticutters and brushes mance but also an opportunity for from each manufacturer. operators to access its ease-of-use and to decide whether they are going to Demonstration be happy using it. Because greensmowers (pedestrians or triples) are designed for a specific For the future application, it is hardly suiprising The indications are that making that the technical data is often very mowers more versatile in relation to similar. Therefore the only way to general turfcare maintenance has make a true comparison between dif- increased over the last few years. A ferent makes and models is to mow number of machines are now on the a green! This is why a demonstration market with interchangeable cas- is so important. Whilst the time fac- settes or attachments. Other changes tor alone would not justify seeing all likely to occur in the future will the makes and models available, cer- involve power sources, as possible leg- tainly more than one should be islation on exhaust emissions takes accessed under identical conditions. effect. When dealing with nature there are The one thing that is unlikely to so many variables that no two greens alter to any degree is the actual prin- will be alike. To obtain a true picture, ciple of the cutting system. Budding all the mowers demonstrated should was a clever guy, and golf, like so be viewed on the same day and in as many other sports, has a lot to thank close a locality to each otiier as pos- him for. sible. For a quality, precision cut, take a ride on one of our quality, precision-engineered machines. Toro's Greensmaster® ride-on greens mowers are renowned for their superb finish, reliability, with a larger, more powerful engine to give even higher productivity.. And if it's a pedestrian mower you require, our classic Greensmaster 1000 greens mower is just one of a superb range guaranteed to build your reputation for quality greens, Simply telephone on 01480 226800 and we'Jr arrange for a local dealer to contact you. TORO BRINGS QUALITY TO Lely Ireland Limited, 6 Airton Close, Tallaght, Dublin 24. Tel: 00 353 (0)1 459 3314 E-mail: [email protected] www.toro.com THE SURFACE Photo : D r S J Haak e 28 Greenkeeper International March 2001 After yet another 'winter of dis- dards to keep our customers coming year - the evidence would be there. content' at most of our inland courses back for more? You would also know the likely effects it's not only the frustrated golfers of any one management operation, who are desperate to see dry, playable Green Speed giving you the flexibility to choose surfaces, green-keepers too must be This must be right at the top of the the more turf friendly option - great praying for a cessation of hostilities list for most players as the key para- for tournament preparation. from above. meter for judging the greens, Currently we understand that the But do players expect too much particularly from May through to single major turf factor that affects from our bruised, battered, rain-sod- September. Inevitably it is also the green speed is cutting height, proba- den, frost-bitten and long-suffering major area of conflict between the oly followed by surface firmness patches of turf that we call putting interests of the pace-hungry golfer (which is related to thatch, moisture greens, or do they deserve better? and the grass loving green-keeper. status, compaction, soil type, con- What standards or performance and Green speed is easy to measure with struction, etc). Third on the list payability should they expect and the now well established Stimpmeter. would be grass density and texture how can greenkeepers achieve that Not only is it a reliable and quick test, (influenced by species, fertiliser, man- delicate balance between maintain- but we also have a recognised set of agement, etc). But because mowing ing healthy, vibrant and sustainable standards to compare our results to. height has the biggest effect it is in turf and providing pace and bite I truly believe that we should be reg- this area that greenkeepers come through the competition season? ularly checking green speeds and under most pressure. How can we measure or judge the keeping records of each measure- There is no doubt that this pressure performance of the greens ana how ment, matching it with other data is increasing and summer mowing can we improve those standards? If that influence the result like time of heights continue to be pushed to the someone could come up with a sim- year, cutting height, time after last limits of endurance. Here I believe ple solution to these issues Agronomy cut, last fertiliser treatment, etc. It is that greenkeepers have an obligation would become a redundant occupa- also worth checking the speed after to stand up for the integrity or their tion, fortunately for me and my certain operations are implemented, beliefs, if only for the reason that colleagues the answers are not simple just to see which have the greatest there will be a pay-back for such prac- and are always different. influence; what difference does a dou- tices. In the long term, and I'd like to start this discussion, ble cut make? What about a 0.5mm paradoxically, it will be the quality of somewhat controversially, by looking height reduction? How does it change golf that will suffer. Short term at the end product from the client's during a hot, dry day? What about increases in green speed as a result of perspective. After all it is the club the influence of verticutting, groom- excessively close cutting (3mm or less member who, effectively, pays all our ing and top dressing? The list is for sustained periods) are directly cor- wages. In simple terms we are the sup- endless. Sounds like a great idea for related with poor winter plier and they are the customer and a research project to me! performance, much increased sus- if we don't get it right they will look This information would be a really ceptibility to stress (drought, disease, elsewhere (or we will go elsewhere!). useful ally for the greenkeeper, you cold, stagnation, etc) and will encour- What are the standards of perfor- would have a set of objective data so age Poa annua at the expense of bent. mance that they judge the greens by? that when the players protest that the A balance is possible and when sen- And how can we improve those stan- greens were much faster this time last sible mowing heights are combined Spatial Consistency ence between well drained greens and This is my term to describe the dif- wet ones, Poa annua greens will fluc- ferences (or hopefully similarities) in tuate considerably from season to performance between the greens season; they produce seed heads around the course. Despite the best through the late spring, are prone to efforts of greenkeepers to produce drought in the summer, tend to lose uniformity of putting surface perfor- colour and growth through the mance, the main factors which autumn, are prone to cold, waterlog- influence this parameter are very ging and disease stress in the winter much out of their control i.e. con- ana after all that look pretty awful in struction and location. The early spring. In contrast bent domi- differences in playing quality nated turf is much more consistent between a newly constructed sand in its performance through the year, dominated green and a traditional and is much less prone to all the push-up' green are significant, par- stresses that seem to hit Poa annua ticularly ball impact response. so badly One very good reason for Similarly a green located on an continuing the long term battle to exposed plateau at the top of the improve the species composition of course will behave completely differ- golf greens and, in particular, avoid- ently from a green placed in a hollow ing excessively close cutting in the and surrounded by trees. When the two factors combine the potential for inconsistency escalates to worrying Summary proportions. The intention of this article is to Although it has now become some- highlight the standards of perfor- thing of a cliché, I still find myself mance by which players judge our reminding clubs of the dangers of greens. An appreciation of these stan- with other less damaging manage- club and the ball selection also have reconstructing individual problem dards provides the green-keeper with ment techniques everyone should be an influence. But what is it about the greens and creating 'one green which a new perspective on the manage- happy. (See mowing article by Noel turf that makes a ball stop quickly, behaves completely differently to the ment of the course and, in particular, Mackenzie in last month's issue of retain back-spin or bound off into the other 17 on the course'. It is much provides a focus for long term course Greenkeeper International). trees behind the green? more productive to take a long term, development issues. The article also Research work carried out by Steve holistic view of the problem and links the likely effects of specific turf Smoothness Haake towards the end of the 1980's many courses are now grasping the management factors on playing qual- There is no doubt that maintaining attempted to identify the factors that nettle' firmly in both hands and are ity and includes ideas for the a strong, resilient and full turf cover influence golf ball impact response. embarked on complete green recon- manipulation of these factors to get will directly produce a smoother sur- Somewhat inevitably he discovered struction programmes. On the other the best performance from the face. The major causes of 'bumpiness' that surface hardness had the biggest hand it may be completely unneces- greens. These suggestions are briefly relate to weaknesses in sward cover- effect. Although the picture is not as sary to consider reconstruction, summarised below: age and the presence of blemishes like simple as you might imagine. especially if its just one or two greens worm casts, weeds and disease. Excessively soft surfaces always stop that are causes for concern. There are • Keep records of green speed by taking regular stimpmeter readings throughout Particularly relevant at this time of a range of shots played into them, other much less costly and less dis- ruptive ways to improve problem the year and take a note of weather year is the unevenness caused by the but this has little to do with backspin and maintenance factors. differential growth rates of the grass- retention. It is much more likely that greens to bring them in line with the es in the spring. Most courses with backspin will be retained on firm sur- rest. Every golf course has its own • Adopt a sensible, turf friendly approach high bent populations in their greens faces, this is because the time of unique circumstances and clubs to mowing height and use other less contact between the turf and ball is would be well advised to seek the stressful maintenance methods to will be reaping the rewards in terms retain green speed. of the quality of the surface at this reduced and hence the backspin is assistance of a qualified Agronomist to discuss the various options avail- time of year. Those with full Poa not converted into top-spin. As sur- • Maintain a programme of regular, light annua swards will not notice this faces become harder backspin able. top dressing through spring and early effect but the poor quality of the retention is increased but the energy summer to improve smoothness and pace. sward and the pick-up of growth will of impact is not absorbed and the ball Temporal Consistency will simply bounce off a surface that lead to unevenness for the reasons Another fancy term, this time to • Sound turf maintenance practices that detailed above. One good reason to is too hard. A turf with good resilience describe the way greens change in create a firm, resilient surface will aim for bent domination of the and some 'give' will reward a well performance through the year. Again favour skilful approach play. greens. struck shot, providing enough give to a critical issue on golf courses these • Take a long term, holistic approach to Once decent growth does get under- absorb most of the impact energy, yet days because of the year-round nature firm enough to allow enough back- green reconstruction, there may be way repeated light applications of top of the game. No surprise that the other less costly and less disruptive spin to be retained so that the ball dressing will significantly improve method of construction has a huge ways to improve isolated problem surface smoothness, and may also grips on its subsequent impacts. In effect; simply put, sand dominated greens. help to promote the best conditions other words well maintained, thatch greens are more consistent through free, healthy turf that is neither over • Adopt a management programme that for improving pace - a management the year, soil based greens tend to nor under watered and drains effi- tilts the competitive edge towards bent, technique with direct and indirect fluctuate according to weather con- ciently. but not at the expense of good putting implications for golf green improve- ditions. Location is important too, surface production - a balance is ment and one which Grass Science Interestingly Haake also found that greens that are exposed and dry achievable and therein lies the true art tries to encourage even at the low backspin retention was increased on quickly will perform better under wet of greenkeeping. budget clubs. bent dominated greens compared to conditions, the greens that collect Poa annua greens. An effect that may water and are shaded will suffer when Tim Colclough B.Sc.Hons. PgD is a Senior well have been related to the factors Agronomist at Grass Science covering Ball impact response it's wet. North-East England and Scotland. Tim and What is it that affects the response described above rather than a direct Species composition makes an the rest of the Grass Science team can be of a golf ball when it lands on the species link. In other words the bent enormous difference to the year contacted on 01204 377757 or on e-mail: green? We all know that the skill of tended to favour the firmer, drier round changes in the performance of [email protected]. the player is the biggest factor, the a putting surface. Just like the differ- P I L T L A N D TECHNOLOGY LIMITED MOLE & RABBIT CONTROL & ENVIRONMENT - FRIENDLY TURF CARE PRODUCTS WEBSITE: www.piltland.co.uk Email address: [email protected] Tel: 01780 783758 Fax: 01780 783818 Do you still have wet soggy greens? Are you on temporaries for long periods? OUR NEW LYTAG BANDER CAN CHANGE ALL THAT Recent installations at: XT 10 CC • Llangollen G.C. JN Orth btatlS • Market Drayton G.C. jT 4-A • Brookdale G.C. (Stalybridge) llTlgatlOn IjIGL • Sandfield G.C. (Chester) , . . _ ryl/u .j.. ^ Tk (miäy luuwM ca^i wty m Major drainage works at: CONSULTING WATERING/DRAINAGE SPECIALISTS lvy 8TB • Chorley G.C., Pryors Hayes G.C. (Chester) "ÂÎfiWï.SS FS"M™ E-mail: [email protected] TALKING Six of the country's top men give their views on the changing weather trends 1. In your experience what changes to the regular weather patterns have you notice over the last 10-15 Weather trends years? Compiled by Malcolm Huntington MBE Name: Jim Paton. Course: West Kilbride Golf Club, Ayrshire The winters are definitely a lot warmer Region: Scotland and wetter. We get very little snow in this Course Type: Links area because of the gulf stream Staff: Course Manager plus five Name: Ian Buckley Winters are a lot wetter, but we have also Course: De Vere Northop Country Park Club had a lot of rain in summer in recent Region: Northern years. We used to have three to four days Course Type: Parkland of snow at a time, but now it's much Staff: Head Greenkeeper, plus three groundsmen milder and one mechanic (250 acres to look after) There have been very definite changes in Name: Barry Holt the last four or five years in particular. We Course: Burford Golf Club, Oxfordshire don't seem to get winter now, although Region: Midland there is some frost and a little snow and Course Type: Parkland there is a lot more rain. I have never Staff: Head Greenkeeper plus four known a winter like this for floods in the area. Raymond Day Name: In this part of the world we tend to get Saunton Golf Club, Devon Course: colder springs and now warmer winters up South West and South Wales Region: until Christmas. There are cooler Links (36 holes) Course Type: temperatures in April these days Staff: Course Manager, plus ten, plus a mechanic Name: Robert Lucas Course: Royal Blackheath Golf Club, Eltham, London We have lost our traditional seasons and Region: South East we now have warmer summers and Course Type: Parkland winters. Staff: Course Manager plus seven Name: Ken Moore Winters are wetter and warmer. We used Course: Scrabo Golf Club to get a lot of hard frosts in Northern Region: Northern Ireland Ireland, but we don't seem to get them Course Type: Heathland now. We get a bit of snow after Christmas Staff: Course Manager plus four usually. The warmer winters mean that there is a lot We are cutting for far longer periods now. more play now and the season is extended to We have worked on the drainage a lot. We hardly touched it in winter for years We are very lucky because we are not 12 months. Many come to play on our course The drains that were in were very old and but I remember a couple of years ago the bothered too much by disease but we had from the Glasgow area when their courses are they were also covered by ash, which had staff were off from Christmas to New some Fusarium in November and closed. Global warming has also seen a big gone solid, making it difficult for water to Year and when we came back it was only December, quite a bit more than in years difference in tides and we spent £100,000 on drain away as it wasn't reaching the just possible to out the grass with mowers gone by. shoring up the edge of the course because of pipes. because there was so much growth. coastal erosion, using armoured rock, some of them three and five tonne pieces. We try to keep our greens (USGA) fed as The course was built six and a half years the water goes straight through. I use ago and since then we have been putting When the course dries out - we have been high potassium content as a pick-me-up. more and more drains in. The builders of closed a lot - we will be doing a great deal Cutting was once a month in winter, but Fusarium has certainly got worse over the the course didn't leave any drainage plans of aeration. If winters remain mild we nowadays we struggle to get on the years. Years ago we didn't really see any so we have almost had to start again. expect to have more players on the course greens as it has been so wet. To give an in winter. Irrigation has been updated for similar and so more compaction — another example of the changes, I can recall reasons. I think some of the old irrigation problem. seeding in January some years back and is four feet deep. getting good results. There is going to be a lot more wear Milder means you have more cutting to We have upgraded the irrigation system because milder winters are encouraging do. I have cut greens almost weekly this Certainly. As it is so mild we got more around the greens and introduced a golfers to play more. It has often rained winter, whereas before we could go weeks disease, mainly Fusarium. There's no watering system on the tees. We have overnight and then been fine during the without cutting when it was very cold. I change of type but disease is more also put in a few more laterals on the day so there is more traffic damage. We don't use feeds in winter, apart from severe. greens and done some deep aeration, also have also more damage from rooks sulphate of iron and perhaps a bit of using a drill and fill machine. pecking for leatherjackets and chafer seaweed to harden off the greens. grubs in the mild winter. We have no control of English nature. You might say nature does what it wants and The early feeding has been affected and We have altered the feeding programme In the last five years we have redone the that stops us from doing what we might now we put a bit or iron on, partly for on greens in the last couple of years and main drain through the course and want to do. Because we are a links course cosmetic purposes to keep people happy. we have reduced disease by more improved the drainage at the top end of we may suffer from even more traffic in Cutting in early spring is a bit less and the aeration and putting on a bit of feed. It's a the course, known as the gull pit. We have winter as our course is often open when height of cut remains up for a bit longer. question of trying to get a balance. added irrigation to high wear areas. others are closed because of the wet conditions. Anthracnose has reared its ugly head in Our membership is ageing and so the the last four years, but Fusarium hasn't We have put in new irrigation, including Cutting regimes are now lasting 10 change in weather pattern will see more really altered because we get more the fairways, in the last 12 months and months whereas before it was more like golf in winter. This has resulted in us chance to aerate In the warmer winters. this will help to counteract the warmer eight. In November end March we considering a change to USGA greens There is no major problem at the moment summer periods. Drainage work has originally cut once a month, now it is more from the traditional method to give a 12 but maybe there will be in time because of increased over the last year as well. like two or three times. month service rather than 10. the changes. Basically we have stopped cutting earlier because of increased rain. The grass A year ago we finished irrigation on the Things haven't really changed at all. We Basically it will result in a lot more winter doesn't grow much after September. We course. Previously we had only six holes golf and with that in mind we are changing didn't fertilise the greens until May 2 last get a spot of anthracnose and some with sprinklers. Drainage is not good, but to a 50-50 soil sand mix from 100% soil on year and the fairways were not done until Fusarium, but there is really no major we are planning improvements and money the greens May 17. East winds are the reason, problem. will be put into the budget for this. keeping the temperatures down and resulting in a lack of growth. Kristian Waagen, a Briton abroad reports from Melarid Golf Club in Norway, where different problems require well thought out solutions all odds Life at Meland Golfklubb Meland Golf Club is on the island of The real work began in earnest in the Holsnoy, on the west coast of Norway. summer of 1998 as more and more of Average rainfall in the region is about the course was seeded my two staff two to 2.5 metres each year. The aver- members and I juggled our time age winter temperatures fell between between overseeing construction and 1.5°C and 3°C. The average summer maintaining a developing golf course. temperatures fall between 10°C and We grew with the course and I made 15°C. The highest summer tempera- many observations in relation to soil were open again by lunchtime. ture recorded was a staggering 30.1 °C. conditions, fertiliser response, drainage, The course is closed from mid The lowest winter temperature was and the weather - observations that lat- October to the last weekend in April minus 16.7°C. er were instrumental in developing the and sees intense play during the short When I was considering the job at maintenance plans for the course. The summer season. During the mid-sum- Meland back in 1997 I had some con- course opened (well six holes anyway) mer period when there are almost no cerns about this information which I in August of 1998 and was highly pub- hours of darkness you can see golfers came across while researching the area licised throughout Norway. However, out on the course from early morn- on which the golf course was to be built. no tee times were taken that year upon ing to 11 pm. The conditions and Questions pertinent to drainage and my advice that the course was simply circumstances at Meland dictate its rootzone materials were forefront con- not ready to sustain play management as at any other course sidering the amount of rainfall, also the May 1999 saw the opening of the and the remaining article discusses low temperatures in the spring, which first nine holes with the second nine some of that management. During would take forever to warm heavy wet following later in August. The course the planning and construction of the soils. was closed in October for the winter course the weather was at the fore- However, the interview process and period and we opened all 18 holes in front of everyone's mind and a brief openness of the Club Manager resolved the end of April 2000. In November description of materials and tech- many issues of concern and I accepted of 1999 we were listed as one of the niques used is given here. the job in November 1997. I moved Top 100 courses in Europe - although my family from America and found sneaking in at number 100. Tees Above right: The 16th tee, May 2000 myself supervising the final stage of Rainfall is without a doubt the main The tees are constructed on a solid Below; The Meland team with Kristian construction, working closely with the concern. Its impact, because of the base of blasted rock, having removed in white shirt Norwegian construction company, the sheer volume, cannot be ignored in the peat down to bedrock. The sub- Architect, and the club project devel- the day-to-day management of the grade was finished using crushed rock opment team. course. The staff are supplied with ensuring all large cavities were filled rain suits and work outside in all to prevent settling. A 10cm drainage weathers to ensure the course is pre- layer was then installed using a 2- sented to a high standard at all times. 4mm pea gravel, and where necessary The people from this part of the drain outlets were led away from the world do not stop what they are doing tee area and tied in with main because it is raining, if they did they drainage lines or natural water chan- would never really do much at all! nels. The rootzone material used was The golf course is therefore expected the same as used in the greens. The to be open at all times rain or shine specifications on the sand are to the which of course brings with it a host recommended USGA specification of problems in managing high traffic and a composted material was added areas such as tees and greens. m at the source prior to shipping. The ! MI Between April 1 and October 16 ratio of sand to compost is 95 to 5 jli last year, despite receiving 31 inches by weight. The blended mix was test- of rain, we were only closed on four ed for percolation rates and the actual occasions, and on two of those we ratio was adjusted to give us the required rates of percolation, which it was then spread to a depth of 15cm rapidly resulting in a jump on growth. The fairways are maintained at ended up at 177mm/hour. The finish over all areas that were to be main- Fertility is timed to coincide with this 15mm and are mown three times a depth of the root zone was 20cm. tained fairway and semi-rough. The and if necessary damaged areas will week with two Jacobsen LF128 4WD Tees are seeded with a blend consist- fairways were shaped to move water be slit seeded. At this time I use a 15- units returning clippings. Irrigation is ing of the following: away from play areas using contours, 0-0 ammonium nitrate fertiliser, kept to a minimum to promote firm mounding, and swales. Drainage was supplemented with Ca and Mg. This fairways and discourage moss, algae, 20% Bargreen, Festuca rubra spp. installed extensively during the con- is one of only two times I feel safe disease and Poa annua. In respect to commutata using such a readily available form of weed management we have moved 25% Barcrown, Festuca rubra spp. litoralis struction period with the knowledge 25% Enjoy, Festuca rubra spp. commutata that water had to be removed quick- nitrogen as it is typically a stable peri- away from blanket spraying and now 10% Highland, Agrostis castellana ly from the surface to allow od with almost no rain. From May to spot spray when needed. 10% Baron, Poa pratensis establishment and future manage- September we aerify with the knives Drainage issues are addressed as 10% Nugget, Poa pratensis ment. each month running a different direc- they occur and due to the extensive The fairways and Semi Roughs tion and to a depth of 10cm both in drain system installed during con- Greens were seeded with the following blend: the fairways and semi roughs, with struction we don't have to trench too The same method of construction high traffic areas receiving extra far before being able to tie into and was used in building the greens and 25% Bargreen, Festuca rubra spp. attention. The vertidrain is then used existing run. All additions are added commutata in the fairways and foregreens in the to the drainage maps supplied by the the tees. The difference being that in 20% Barcrown, Festuca rubra spp. litoralis the greens we have a 30cm root zone 10% Highland, Agrostis castellana autumn around the middle of building contractor, continually depth as opposed to 20 cm as found 30% Ryegrass, Lolium perenne September, when we go down to the updating for future reference. in the tees. The greens are seeded 15% Baron, Poa pratensis interface between root zone and sub with L-93 creeping bentgrass. This grade, which is about 15cm below the Tees particular species was chosen for its Course Management surface. In the spring we hollow tine the tees natural resistance to many diseases Operating the golf course in typi- Fertiliser applications are split using 5/8" tines removing the cores. specifically Fusarium, Typhula and cally wet conditions, with heavy play between using granular products and At this time we also topdress and leaf spot, that were typically the main creates a lot of compaction in high foliar products. We use a slow release overseed the tees still using the orig- concerns at other courses on the west traffic areas. Maintenance of tne product, 28-3-10 sulphur-coated inal blend. This all takes place about coast of Norway. course under these conditions com- toward the end of May, with a sec- two weeks prior to opening. pounds the problem of compaction. ond 15-0-0 in July, finishing with a Germination is observed and new Fairways and Semi Roughs The management of the course is cen- 10-5-25 50% slow release in the seedlings start to fill in voids from left After much blasting, clearing, and tred therefore around aerification. beginning of September. over damage from the previous filling these areas were finally capped We aerify everything and often. The total amount of nitrogen autumn. Each month from May to with clay excavated on the site. applied in the season is 2.5 lbs or N August we hollow tine, overseed and Topsoil that was removed from the Fairways per 10()0ft2. (1.2 Kilo N per 100 sq. topdress the tees. Each Monday, areas of the property that actually Fairways and semi roughs are aeri- metres) this includes the foliar appli- despite two sand boxes being present had any, was stock piled and blend- fied using a pull behind Aero-king cations of iron sulphate and on each tee, we fill all divots by hand ed with imported sand with particle 9672 eitner with hollow tines or micronutrients at very low rates and use a lute to smooth out the dam- sizing that ranged in size from 4 to knives, and a Charterhouse ver- spaced 28 days apart. aged areas. The combination of divot 16 mm. The idea was to create a more tidrain. We hollow tine in the spring, We use no plant protectants on the filling, aerifying, dressing, and over- freely draining soil. All the blending mid April time, to open up the soil fairways and see very little disease seeding have preserved conditions, was performed at a central site and and assist with drying, with the idea activity, other than an occasional spot maintaining turf cover and level tee trucked out on to the course where of increasing soil temperatures more of red thread. boxes. March 2001 Greenkeeper International 35 Fertility is geared towards promot- surrounds are cut with a push type April nium sulphate on a three weekly inter- ing strong growth and recovery The rotary for about one metre wide, with Hollow Tined using 5/8" hollow tines val split with applications of iron total amount of nitrogen applied to walkways mown out for player access. to a depth of 7.5cm on a 2x2 spacing sulphate. May Greens are hand mown six days a tees between April and October is Tees are hand mown with 26" Hollow Tined using mini tines to depth 3.51bs of N per 1000 sq. feet. (1.75 Jacobsen 526 mowers at 10mm; all of 6cm on a 2x2 spacing week at 3.5mm, there are no weeds, kilo N per 100 sq. meters) which clippings are collected and distrib- June no moss and if you find a poa annua includes the foliar applications of iron uted in the maintained rough in out Solid Tined using 3/8" solid tines plant you might be considered lucky! sulphate, chelated nutrients, and kelp of play areas. The size of the tees adds to a depth of 7.5cm on a 2x2 spacing Each operator spends 10 minutes July before mowing the green fixing ball derived products. Low rates at fre- up to a total of 6500sq. meters and Solid Tined using mini tines to depth quent intervals and the use of iron tee rotation is performed daily. The of 6cm on a 2x2 spacing marks, and nandpicking any poa sulphate maintains steady growth, tees are split into left, middle and August annua trying to establish itself' From eliminating surges in growth and right zones and we work each zone Hollow Tined using 5/8" hollow tines the first day we trained all the staff to unnatural flushes of colour while sup- on a weekly rotation. This gives each to a depth of 7.5cm on a 2x2 spacing identify that wonderful little plant September even at 3.5mm and we haven't budged plying the plant with sufficient area a clear two-week rest time, at Solid Tined using mini tines to a nutrients to grow, recover, and resist minimum, allowing for recovery from depth of 6cm on a 2x2 spacing from the programme. They mow the attack from disease. both foot traffic and divots. same greens each time and know every Like fairways no plant protectants Verticutting is performed each month bump and dip. Pride plays a huge part are used and back pack spot spraying during the growing season to remove Fertility applications with granular in the success of adopting this type of for weeds has only been necessary one thatch, horizontally growing shoots and foliar products between April and practice and competition to have the time in three years. The tees are mon- and helping with the control weed November sees a total application of best set of greens is as strong as I have itored closely for irrigation purposes development. nitrogen of 4.751bs N per 1000 sq. feet ever seen in a greens staff. The fivestaf f maintaining sufficient moisture in the (2.3 kilo N per 100 sq. meters) No her- members who mow greens walk every soil profile to maintain and encour- Greens bicides have been used on greens to step of the way, it takes them three age germination and divot repair. The Starting with hollow tining in the this date. Some Take all Patch was hours to mow four greens each, return sprinkler heads all have adjustable spring using 5/8" hollow tines the aer- observed the first year and its devel- to the barn, wash up and be ready for arcs and surrounds receive almost no ification program for greens is quite opment was held in check by using the next task. water as the heads are adjusted to cov- intense. The aerification programme acidifying fertiliser and iron sulphate. All have been trained to observe and er the teeing surface only. Tee this last year is outlined below: We used an Andersons 13-2-13 ammo- report on anything amiss, from a bunker not being raked, identifying a summer of softening the severity of the I can truly control soil moisture. 1 have Above top: 8th tee, fairway possible irrigation leak and specifical- slopes and the areas of scalping slow- spent numerous hours defending keep- and green, Feb 1998 ly being aware of the quality or cut, not ly shrank in size and are now almost ing the greens firm and dry and I know Above middle: Same hole, just with their machine but with those undetectable. The walk mowers are fit- I am not alone on this subject. June 1998 of others. Also I find the extra 20 min- ted with groomers, however, I have no utes it takes to walk between four hard and fast rule about using them. Staffing at Meland Above bottom: Completed greens observing and enjoying the sur- Visual quality more than anything dic- Full time staff at Meland consists of the 8th hole, May 2000 roundings promotes a higher standard tates their usage, horizontal growth Golf Course Superintendent, Assistant of employee and one who is more apt and perhaps tournament preparation Superintendent, the Equipment Far left: Double cutting the and able to report back to the senior may see more frequent use if green Technician and two Greenkeepers. 5th green, May 2000 staff. speed becomes an issue. During the golfing season we bring Plant protectants were used in the first Flags are moved and we have three on additional help starting in April establishment year when Fusarium sets of aluminium cups that are rotat- with the addition of one seasonal seemed to be enjoying the presence of ed around, sanded and repainted employee and two Student interns, all those young seedling plants. The last before being used again. Each day the one from England and one from the two years though I have made a total cup is wiped clean preventing the build United States. In the middle of June of four applications of Iprodione one up of algae and dirt within the cup. the main influx of summer help begin each Spring and one each autumn as We also use a three-colour flag system bringing staffing up to 12 for the preventative applications. to indicate the location of the hole on months of June, July and August. Last The greens are verticut every three the green. Red flags indicate the front year we had 16 people on the payroll weeks after which t hey are topdressed third of the green, yellow the middle but at any one time we only had 12 and brushed. Several greens have third and white the back.. reporting for work. The scheduling of severe slopes and scalping was a huge The greens are monitored closely for staff is a task in itself as everyone takes problem when we started to drop the irrigation purposes and are typically at least one-week vacation, even the cutting height. To solve this problem allowed to dry considerably between seasonal people. we hand dressed the slopes each week deep watering. It often rains before the need for irrigation occurs, with May Since writing this piece Kirsten has moved from and used the lute to work in the dress- Norway to take up a position as Centre Director ing. This had the effect over one and August being the two months that for Open Golf Centres in Bournemouth Kubofo k AM3300 & AM1800 ride-on triple cylinder mowers v Convenient ^ high dump control can be emptied from the driver seat. A The Supergrip 4 Wheel Available Drive transmission in either 3 3hp or reduces the risk of r The ^ 18hp depending on grass damage. versatile AM Series your needs. provides the option of hopper grass collection. y "The mower's seven-bladed cylinders pro- "The grass has duce a very good finish. Our tnree main /inq fields are some distance apart so the never looked better/' OCTs high transport speed is a key factor GEOFFREY BUCKLAND in reducing downtime." Private house owner, Nottinghamshire. ROGER WRAGG Head of Grounds and Gardens' The King's School, Canterbury. "The AM3300 mower has exceeded all expectations. It's used continuously throughout the season to maintain 44 acres of amenity grass while helping out on 20 acres of sand carpet sports pitches." 'It's strong, has ample power and is built by Kubota - and HERBIE DARRAH Estates Officer - Grounds University of Ulster, jordanstown Campus. that means reliability." DAVID CURWELL "I would not consider taking other triplex Contracts Manager, Swan Plant Services Ltd. mowers onto some of the areas where the AM3300 goes." PAUL EDDLESTONE Head Greenkeeper, Fishwick Hall Golf Club, Lancashire. 'The AM1800 is used for the regular mowing of more than three acres of formal lawns. We've some fairly steep banks where four-wheel drive has proved a boon, maintaining positive grip without marking the turf, even in damp conditions. The AMI 800 is also exceptionally manoeuvrable, working comfortably and effortlessly around and among trees, shrubs and planted borders/' MR PAUL LAVENDER Private house owner, Kent. For further information or to receive a copy of the AM Series Interactive CD, please contact Kubota at: KUBOTA (UK) Ltd, Dormer Road, Thame, Oxfordshire 0X9 3UN Tel: 01844 268111 Fax: 01844 216685 Email: [email protected] David Roy, of Linlithgow GC, winner of BIGGA the 2000 BIGGA Essay Competition for Head Greenkeepers/Course Managers, reveals his winning entry 4PFTITION Managing without chemicals Is it possible and how would I cope? When asked to consider whether it is trolled, which is perhaps how the title recendv there has been enough public- possible to manage a golf course with- of this essay came into being. ity about the European Community's out chemicals, my thoughts immediately Ever since the first alchemist attempt- attitude towards chemicals to suggest turned to European legislation and the ed to use science to turn lead into gold, that this may be changing. impending likelihood, that at some stage man has lived with the notion that The golf industry is obviously bound in the future, there may be very few nature can be distilled and separated to be affected by any change in pesti- chemicals with which to combat turf into elements and that these can be used cide regulationsan d I, in turn, will be problems. That this often talked about to twist and bend our environment to affected, but how will 1 cope? change in attitude has come about at suit our needs. all is due to a recent shift in the way in Man has seldom, if ever, accepted that, Read on... which European governments view the the human race should live within the natural environment and how it is con- bounds set by mother nature, but It must be accepted that a golf course Without too much trouble, we can can be cared for and excellent playing pinpoint what was different on the surfaces produced without the use of average golf course in Britain twenty chemicals, but what is required to years ago. Fairways were cut once per change for this to happen? I will read- week with trailed gangs, large areas of ily admit to using any pesticides that rough were only cut once per year and I consider appropriate to solve a spe- bankings or verges rarely saw a scythe. cific turf problem, but is this really But golf was quick to adopt each new necessary? The amount of resources technological advance in grass cutting placed at our disposal for the mainte- techniques and fairways are regularly nance of a golf course are based on cut twice per week with ride-on mow- what is available in terms of the pes- ers, acres of rough are now kept in ticides that can be used to save labour; check with an array of implements and but what if these are to be withdrawn? strimmers have shorn unkempt cor- Are we producing better courses by ners in every course. utilising every available pesticide or This attitude towards unquestion- are they simply different from those ingly accepting "progress" has had a on which the game was first played? great influence on the way that chem- There are probably only a handful icals are used to help create golf tracks of problems associated with the care that allow two hundred people to of a golf course that can be solved most speed around in average round times easily by the application of chemicals, of four hours. The thought of return- but we have become used to the ing to the type of course that amount of time that this saves. There abounded fifty years ago with rank are very few Greenkeepers who would roughs, slow fairways and unkempt deny that all of the most common turf margins is abhorrent to most golfers problems can be controlled without used to the manicured motorway golf the use of chemicals and it is proba- of the twenty-first century. Many golf ble that the only thing that prevents clubs have grown to a point that their this from being the case is the golf cul- course has to be set up to accommo- ture of today. It is the pressure brought date over one thousand members to bear on Greenkeepers to save time playing golf twelve months of the year, that drives the use of chemicals to con- and if the time is coming when chem- trol the common problems associated icals are no longer to be used on fine with the production of fine turf. turf and manual labour is to be used I am sure that the skills and knowl- instead, will this type of course con- edge exist to manage turf problems tinue to be viable? culturally, but are golf clubs prepared If the choice between using labour to find the necessary extra resources intensive cultural controls for weeds, to do this and to continue to present pests and diseases and using chemical their courses in their current fashion. pesticides is taken away from us, what I am old enough to have experienced will change and who will find it more highly labour intensive practises on a difficult to cope? I would like to argue golf course that are no longer neces- that it would be the modern golfer, sary - but where has the time saved rather than the modern Greenkeeper gone? Instead of spending weeks mix- who would find it more difficult to ing, spreading and dragging twenty cope and the entire culture of golf tons of top dressing by nana we rou- management will be forced to make tinely carry out this operation in one difficult decisions about the type of day giving us the rest of the week to courses that can be produced without cut as much grass as is humanly pos- the use of chemicals. In order to explain this more clearly, it is neces- sary. to look at what thinking shapes scious reluctance, but it is at the root golfers in the world were severely test- the way in which golf courses in this of most of the pressure that is brought ed and that perhaps many more country are managed to see what ratio- to bear on a Course Manager of the courses could be presented in this way. nale there is for not embracing change. average course in Britain. But, if a If we were to reduce drastically the It is rare in both traditional mem- course is presented in such a way that amount of rough cutting (and by this bers' clubs and modern proprietary allows the Greenstaff time to carry I mean all areas of rough grass) to facilities to see golf courses that either out many more labour intensive weed, maintain the most important playing cling on to, or were designed with a pest and disease control and preven- surfaces without the use of chemicals, course set up that is radically differ- tative measures will it be a poor course and that this policy was accepted ent from those facilities that are seen or simply different? I have a strong readily by the golfers, then th< as normal, or desirable. But what belief that if labour on a golf course would be no problem - golfers would influences the way that many golfers is released from the shackles of end- be able to continue to pay the same think that a golf course should look less grass cutting to concentrate on fees for a round of golf. If, however, like? Presumably there must be some tasks such as top dressing, aeration the golfers were reluctant to accept an influence from television, but this and hand watering, the resultant increase in the amount of time spent cannot explain the contradiction we change would not create poorer golf looking for balls, that many more see when golfers marvel at the Old courses, but simply make them more shots would be played from deep Course and its policy of minimal fer- challenging. rough instead of semi-rough and that tilising, yet pressurise their own club In the quest for length on old estab- average round times would increase, to produce a lush green course with lished courses in Britain, most of the then far more resources would have all the contingent problems that this blame has been laid at the door of to be made available in order to brings. golf club and ball manufacturers and achieve the course set up they desire A golfer's view of how his or her own all the improvements that they have and still have time to devote to tasks course should be set up must also be made to golf equipment. Little con- such as hand weeding, top dressing influenced when he or she plays at a sideration has been given to the and so on. club that employs a massive amount ability of the modern bogey golfer to There will undoubtedly be changes of resources to produce a specific type spray the ball with impunity and still in golf course management over the of course and it is perhaps this that find it. It is only due to the widen- next twenty years. The scientific indus- has the greatest influence on current ing of fairways, semi-roughs, the try that nas produced complex course set-ups. The golfer's entirely cutting of bankings and so on that chemical compounds has proved human desire to improve their own has resulted in the reduction of many recently that it can produce equally environment by matching the stan- courses to the label of "pitch and effective methods for the control of dards set by their recent experiences putt". Perhaps if the same courses these same problems without the use has led to direct comparisons between were set up in the same manner they of chemicals. These naturally occurring the very richest golf courses in Britain were forty years ago there would be preventative measures are used rou- and the very poorest. The average far fewer eight degree loft, massively tinely in the form of seaweed solutions, golfer may not openly admit that they oversized drivers in the bags of play- carbohydrate feeds, microbacterial wish their own course to be as mani- ers and more judicious use would be compounds and so on, but the science cured as Augusta National or the made of the far more forgiving three involved in producing these is still in impressive new multi-million pound wood. Accuracy rather than distance its infancy and is still not holistically course that they were privileged to would become the most desirable tal- used. play last year, but these are the stan- ent for a golfer. If, or perhaps when, every tool is dards that they have perhaps Was the way in which Carnoustie harnessed to both prevent and con- subconsciously set in their mind. was presented for the Open in 1999 trol turf problems and golf courses Many golfers are reluctant to accept unattractive or unfair? Was the resul- come to accept that changes in cur- that if their club or course can only tant media frenzy deleterious for golf? rent practises are inevitable, then I afford to employ four Greenkeepers, Did golfers stay away in their droves? have no doubt that I will cope with then the standards of presentation Carnoustie was given mixed reviews the removal of chemicals as a man- and quality of playing surface must by every golfer that watched the Open agement aid and that Greenkeepers be different from a club or course that that year, but nobody denied that the everywhere will prove once again that can afford to employ forty. This, as I way in which it was presented was in turf management is not simply a case have already said, may be a subcon- any way artificial or that the best of cutting grass. « E tt, 2 BIGGA GOLDEN KEY CIRCLE Scott MacCallum headed west to Bolton to learn about BIGGA Golden Key supporter Rigby Taylor's consultancy agency Grass Science... r i g b y t a y I o r The appliance of In the last six years an advisory ser- some internal resources. The business vice has grown from a standing start flourished thanks to Brian's enthusi- to become the second largest in the asm and capacity for hard work and country... with its sights set on the within six months we'd appointed con- number one slot. sultant Chris Peel, from ADAS, and the Grass Science now has four full time business continued to develop from consultants, working under the direc- there," explained Bernard, as we sat in tion of Director of Agronomy, Brian the Bolton Headquarters of Rigby Robinson, each offering advice to golf Taylor. clubs, operators of amenity turf and The next major leap for the compa- on environmental issues up and down ny came last year when two further the length of the UK. appointments were made with a fourth The company was born out an appre- consultant being added earlier this ciation of Rigby Taylor Chairman, year, all from the STRI. Bernard Hedley, that customers were "We appointed Andy Cole and Noel becoming increasingly interested in MacKenzie, both well known and well advisory support and that the indus- established agronomists about nine try itself had become more technical months ago with another, Tim and research driven. Colclough, joining the team earlier this "We were conscious that advice was year." becoming more and more important "Our sales reps were used to offering to customers and in 1995 we relt that advice and still do and this is welcomed we'd got to the stage where we want- by their customers, but now we also ed to offer advice in a more formal have a team of consultants whose manner. We felt that there was an entire focus is advisory input," Clockwise from top right: Grass Science's consultants Chris Peel, Tim Colclough, Noel MacKenzie and Andy Cole opportunity to build a separate divi- explained Bernard, when tackled about sion of Rigby Taylor which would be the potential conflict of a product sup- dedicated to offering advice on a com- ply company setting up its own mercial basis," explained Bernard. advisory service. Brian Robinson, a former He added that while a consultant Groundsman of Lancashire County may visit a course three to four times Cricket Club, who had for the fivepre - a year the rep may visit 12 times a year vious years been managing one of so the greenkeeper is always going to Rigby Taylor's sales teams, was asked hold great store on conversations with to take the project on board. his rep. "Brian was a good example of some- Grass Science is marketed indepen- one whose natural inclination was to dendy of Rigby Taylor and maintains give advisory input to customers and links with other parties out in the field, ne too was keen on the idea. So Grass whether they be contractors and sup- Science was born with in the begin- ply companies. ning Brian basically managing a There is a financial link between the department of one with the nelp of two organisations but in terms of man- Brian Robinson, right and Bernard Hedley, left agement the two are 100% divorced trusts, knows will deliver a solution and range to find solutions to the problems be of the same calibre. People have had from each other. not do his reputation any harm if he that the consultants are identifying. to change slightly to fit in with that "Brian has no responsibilities to Rigby recommends it," said Bernard. "This has been the case in terms of approach," explained Brian, one ofwhose Taylor and there are no Rigby Taylor That said there is nothing to prevent grass seed development and in some projects has taken him to Scotland on a managers with any responsibility for Grass Science consultants looking else- fertiliser formulations within our regular basis over the last two years. any Grass Science management," where for solutions to problems. range," said Bernard. He has been contacted by the explained Bernard, who offers the only "There are no restrictions preventing As an aside he recalled how Rigby Highlands and Island's Development genuine link as Chairman of both com- the consultants developing contacts Taylor firstgo t involved in fertiliser pro- Agency to look at the Cairngorm Sid Lift panies. with other supply companies. In fact duction 50 years ago when it mixed up Company project to build a funicular Indeed convincing customers and it is positively encouraged to ensure the fertilisers prescriptions the STRI railway potential customers that Grass Science their product knowledge is as compre- recommended to particular clients. "It is a site of special scientific interest was an independent company was nev- hensive as possible," explained "In large measure we are doing no dif- and my role is to ensure that everything er a problem. Bernard. ferent now only we have our own is reinstated to how it was... not just after "It was always more of an issue in It is a point reinforced by Brian who consultancy service which enables us to this project but following the bulldozing theory than in practice. I'm not aware pointed out that it is not unusual for work that much more closely. But the work that was done in the 60s when the that there has ever been an occasion one of his team to recommend a prod- same processes take place." original ski lifts were put in. So far we've when a client has felt uncomfortable uct for another company Bernard and Brian are keen to stress photographed rock structures and plants about the Rigby Taylor/Grass Science "We approach our work as a profes- that each consultant brings a specialist so they can be reinstated just as they link," said Bernard. sional organisation skill to the team but were." While it was something Brian did which has merit and that the individuals The work has enabled Brian to plant consider prior to Grass Science being credibility and to do do offer a collective our trial plots for grasses to see how they formed, he is happy to admit that it so it has to stand approach to their copes at 1,000 and 2,500 feet. has never become an issue. alone. So there have work. "Taking this work into the mountains "Even from the word go it was nev- been cases, quite a 'Andy and Noel has enable me to research how grasses er a concern and over the last three number of cases, have specialist golf cope with extremes of weather and this years it has got less and less so to the where it has been necessary to specify knowledge; Tim's particular strength is will be of benefit to many golf clubs in extent that it is never brought up at all other materials... which doesn't make in training while Chris has skills as an years to come," he explained. now. That was particularly obvious at the Rigby Taylor reps too happy," he expert witness," explained Brian, whose The future for Grass Science looks rosy BTME this year." confessed. own specialities are grass seed and envi- with continued expansion on the cards. The benefits which come from hav- However, such occasions offer the ronmental issues. "We see Grass Science developing a ing a link are informal. If a Rigby Taylor opportunity to assess the Rigby Taylor While those specialist skills are regard- wider geographical spread over the next rep sees that a customer has got a need product range and see whether there is ed as important the team, to use a five years certainly throughout the UK for advice he'd be happy to recom- a gap that requires filling. footballing analogy, does play the same while we do believe that Europe remains mend Grass Science. Likewise if a As a product supply company we are formation an attractive proposition," revealed Grass Science consultant is looking to looking to supply a need and one of the "We didn't want people at opposite Bernard. give a product solution he'd be happy best ways of recognising a need is to be ends of the consultancy spectrum and Their sights are still firmly set on to recommend a chat with the Rigby aware of what consultants generally are that, although they are individuals they becoming the number one consultancy Taylor rep. recommending to their clients," said will offer advice wnich is along the same in the country but they are also rightly "That's the way it works and to be Bernard. lines," said Bernard. proud of the strides they have made since honest pretty much every consultancy "The way that Rigby Taylor benefits "The team is able to dovetail so that if Grass Science was formed. tends to have a leaning towards a good from our relationship with Grass Science another member of the team has to stand \Ls Grass Science can be product supply company, one that he is that we are able to tailor our product in for whatever reason the advice would contacted on 01204 377757 March 2001 Greenkeeper International 43 LAWNMAN AUTO-GREENMÄN AUTOCORE AUTO-SLIT TURFMAN We recognise your need for high quality products at an affordable price. 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My nine year old will need on February 6 and look out the win- best for 2001 and hopefully we all therapy for year's to come after his dow at the course which is covered can have a good playing season. My face filled my TV screen. in a foot of snow I wonder when we apologies for a vacant column over On a more serious note congratu- are going to get a decent spell of the past months this was down to lations are to be extended to Joe Bell, North weather as since the turn of the year family commitments with the birth from Kilmacolm GC, who has been There was a record turnout of we've had snow, deep frost then of my second daughter born in appointed Head Greenkeeper at North Section members at BTME more deep frost then a thaw for a November and a bout of family 'flu Millport GC. Joe has worked at this year, it was great to see so week then some rain then more at New year before last month's dead- Kilmacolm for 13 year's and both many folk travelled down to snow when will it come to an end line. Ronnie and the West of Scotland Harrogate, I hope you all thought as its only six weeks till the start of The AGM produced a very small Committee wish Joe every success in it was worth the effort and that our season and some other courses turnout and there were no significant his new position. Is that the Glasgow you will go down again in the as well. Hopefully March will be bet- changes. The following committee fair holiday's booked for Ronnie. future. As ever it was a great week, ter. were elected to serve for 2001. Once again congratulation's are to with record attendances and full The amazing thing is we spent a Chairman, lain Barr, Largs Kelburn; be extended to Ronnie and his staff of quality events. The new hall week at BTME in Harrogate and the Past Chairman, Duncan Gray, The at Kilmacolm GC after they were giv- meant more stands than ever and weather was superb the whole week. Pines; Secretary, Derek Wilson, en Committed to Green Recognition the trade show was excellent, with Strange isn't it? Irvine Bogside; Committee, George by the Committed to Green lots to see and buy if you had the As normal the Section is quiet just Brown, William McMeikan and Foundation. Kilmacolm GC is one of budget! now but a few bits of news for you. Jimmy Johnstone all Turnberry. Jim only 15 golf club's in the whole of The Tuesday night football Firstly people on the move last Paton and Brian Ailken (New mem- Europe to be recognised with this match was played in cold pouring month are Paul Hares, formerly ber), West Kilbride. Brian Finlayson, award. rain so it was not surprising that Assistant Head Greenkeeper, has left Barassie. Dennis Tweddell (New On an educational note Ronnie the Scots lads won 4-1. There Melville to take up a post with member), Bonnyton. Robert T tell's me that a moderator's meeting was a shortage of English lads this Standard Life and Shaun Bruce, Stewarts. There are vacancies is due to be arranged sometime, in year, so we cunningly gave the Cunningham, Assistant at for Vice Chairman and committee March, a mail shot will be sent out English team some Scots who have Monktonhall, has taken Paul's job which remain to be filled. The out- in due course. been working in England for a as Assistant Head Greenkeeper at ings will be finalised at February's I have also been informed that eight while so had gone a little soft! Melville Golf Club. So best of luck committee meeting and will he post- greenkeeper's are now working their Sorry George. to them in their new positions.Well ed in next month's column. way through an SVQ Level 4 with We had some great evenings, I have already mentioned it but I The Patrons' Award winners were GOSTA training, the committee with the Canadian contingent must say BTME 2001 was excellent Martin Lothian, from Turnberry, and wishes you all the best in achieving numbering 40 this year, and I am once again and every year it just Colin Murray, from Brighouse Bay, your award's. sure our party that were in Canada keeps getting bigger and better. Well who were presented with their award A warm welcome is extended to our last month had a great time as done to to everyone at BIGGA at the Patrons lunch and also received new Section member's these being these guys know how to party, HOUSE and all the organisers of the a trip to BTME at Harrogate, con- Robert Brown; Gordon Ewan Logan; they could almost be Scottish! show the seminars ana all the other gratulations to you both. Also many Robert McDowell; Michael McLerie; Roll on BTME 2002. activities that are going on that week thanks to all the Scottish Region William Hamilton Muir and Darren Congratulations to Ian Cowper, and I speak for everyone when I say patrons for making these awards pos- Welsh. We look forward to meeting of Tain Golf Club, who became a it is a credit to you all so keep up sible. you all at the up and coming Section Dad last month. the good work and we will see you People on the move recently are outing's. His partner, Samantha, gave all next year at BTME 2002. Scott McLean from West Kilbride to Finally we hope Elliott has enjoyed birth to Adam and all are doing Peter Boyd, the hotel and the pack- Wentworth as Assistant and Joe Bell his year as Chairman and I am sure well. As a result of the imminent age you put together was first class who moves up from Deputy Head at your staff will have your wellies birth, Ian had to miss his Patrons once again so that's another reason Kilmacolm to Head Greenkeeper at warmed up at Tulliallan ready for Award trip to BTME, but every as well as the show etc that we are Millport on the Isle of Cumbrae. your return to duty. cloud has a silver lining for some- getting more Scots making the jour- Jim Paton is organising computer " Well that's all I nave to report this one and Jock Urquhart, also of ney south every year. courses in Ayrshire which are run in month, again if any Section member Tain, stepped in and thoroughly Peter, I hope you enjoyed your hol- house by BIGGA through our does have anything they would like enjoyed his first visit to Harrogate iday in South Africa preparing Education department with Ken added to the column feel free to con- and returned full of ideas that will yourself for the new season - that's if Richardson. Anyone who is interest- tact me on 01355 236335 or 01355 keep me on my toes for a while. you took the clubs with you that is. ed should forward their name to Jim, 266862. Congratulations also to Gordon Now don't forget Ian ana Richard I Derek Wilson or myself. Brian Bolland. McKie, of St Andrews, who next am still waiting for your essay about That's all the news for this month, month gets married to his fiancee, your trip to Harrogate and I wont for- any news or views call me on 01505 Central Susan. We wish them every hap- get so I'm just reminding you both. 683278. This month we extend a warm wel- piness. No excuses please. Iain Barr come to another nine new Section Bobby Mackay and his staff at I hope to see you at the BIGGA members, and they are Graham Royal Dornoch have been very Scottish Conference at Dunfermline West Brand and Alan Breen, from busy recently building five new on March 6 which will be past by the On January 22-26 I had the good Carnoustie Golf Links; David Smith, holes on the Struie course as part time you read this but I hope to see fortune to visit the BTME exhibition from Glenalmond College Golf of an upgrade that will see two you anyway. at Harrogate for the first time and Course; Richard Colley, from great courses in Dornoch in the Well that's it for this month, if you must again thank the Patron's of our Dunfermline Golf Club; James near future, we look forward to have any news let me know just as Section personally for making the Dowie, from Brucefields Family Golf playing it when it opens. Steve Halliday, Head Greenkeeper trip possible. The show itself is very Centre; Alexander Latto, from It will soon be Spring and I hope at Melville GC, did because it's impressive with every kind of Thornton Golf Club; Derek Downie, by the time this report is read that quite painless really. The usual num- machine you could ever want but from Ladybank Golf Club, and the weather has been a little bers are 01968 661313 (home), could never afford being on display Dudley Aitchison from Anstruther kinder to us to make up for the 01968 661721 (office), 07719 The educational programme and Golf Club. As before, hopefully we hardest Winter we have had for 580449 (mobile) or e-mail: craic enjoyed afterward's in the com- will have the pleasure of meeting many years, it is a good job we [email protected] about pany or colleagues will always be a some of you at forthcoming events. have such understanding mem- anything you want as long as you highlight of this event. One night in News of two former Section mem- bers at our clubs. think it will be of interest to the particular stand's out in Trotter's bar bers, David Murdoch, formerly of I hope you are all sending your members. So come on, do it now! where an educational programme on Dunfermline Golf Club and now of money to Stewart McBain for the PS -1 have just heard the forecast losing a bad "habit" was very well Liphook Golf Club received his 200 Club, please do it now while and the rain is going to lash down attended. I can never remember so Master Greenkeeper Award at it is fresh in your mind and and the wind is going to whip up so many greenkeeper's standing so qui- BTME. at Harrogate and Ian Ross, Stewart does not have to chase that so sounds familiar, but if it cfoes- etly in sheer admiration. It certainly formerly of the Dukes Course at St. around after you for it. Thank n't it wont leave any lasting opened my eye's. Andrews, is now working in Norway you. impressions on me! Congratulation's are to be extend- as Head Greenkeeper at the Mildagard Golf Club in Osteras. Iain Macleod Chris Yeaman ed to Colin from Glasgow GC, who Congratulations go to them both with banding on greens, and a talk on the ing as captains of golf clubs, they are Competition at Hexham on every success for the future from right soil and sand mixtures for root Wyn Mostyn, who is the Captain of September 21. everyone in the Section. zone. The cost for the day is £20 the Plassey Golf Club, and Terry Due to a problem with email the As usual there were a good number including lunch, and non members and Adamson, Captain of Northop North East notes have not appeared of Section members at Harrogate again club officials are welcome All entries to Country Park Golf Club. I was won- over the past few months so apologies this year and I'm sure everyone must he sent to me at Hanhill Lodge, dering whether any other Section to the members who have missed out have enjoyed a bigger and better Hanhill Road,Liverpool. Tel.0151 724 wishes both of them every success in on their Section Notes. BTME. Any member who has not 5412, or mobile 07761 583387. their year of office, maybe they could Jimmy Richardson attended this event should mark it in Cheques made payable to BIGGA influence the weather seen as that's their diary and start planning now for N/W what us Greenkeepers are supposed to 2002 as it is an enjoyable week on both We have a match: against the do! the "educational" and social sides of NAVales Section at Abergele Golf Club Dave Goodridge things. on Thursday April 19 and I require a Entry forms for this year's Spring strong team of 16 members to win the Cleveland Tournament, which is being held by GEM. Trophy This annual tourna- Very little to report this month. Two courtesy of the members of Scotscraig ment has been played for many years, members of staff at the Wynard Club Golf Club in Fife, should be with you mostly on a friendly basis, and is once have successfully completed their East Midland shortly and once again I would ask you again sponsored by GEM Professional NVQ Level 2 at Askham Bryan This year has again seen another to return your form, with the correct so there is no cost to you. All you have College, Stephen Taggart, and Gary excellent Trade Show at Harrogate, remittance, as soon as possible to avoid to do is get there If you are interested Hutchinson both passed with flying with more products on show, more disappointment. give me a ring as soon as possible colours the course also included the PA workshops and seminars. Although I The winners of the January draw in The following week on Monday April 2 which they both also passed. was only able to attend the show for "Club 2000" are D. McOwat, £30 with 23 we have the "Spring Tournament After being advised by the police one day it was still great to see a few number 357 and D. Wilson, £20 with at Mere GCC, with the tee available (three times) Shaun Carroll, Deputy old friends, gain some more valuable number 385. The winners of the from 1.30pm Lunch will be served at Course Manager of Eaglescliffe Golf information and to see what a fantas- February draw are M. Lindsay, £30 12.30 and an evening meal follows the Club has abandoned his attempt to tic Association we have. Once again I with number 320 and P Butler, £20 completion of the golf. We are restrict- break the land speed record through would like to encourage all members with number 166. Thanks to S. ed to 50 competitors so get your Yarm High Street, he can now be seen to support the show in future years, so Connah, T. Edwards, W Swan, A. application in early with your cheque travelling to work with a queue of traf- we can remain successful. It was nice Paterson and D. Gillon for purchasing for £15 to Bill Merritt. 225 Lilting fic behind him. Once he has safely to meet up with the Canadian their tickets, although outwith the Avenue, Clubmore, Liverpool. 1.4 arrived at work Shaun has the respon- Greenkeepers prior to my visit to allotted time, were still in time to be QRB Tel 0151 284 4416. Evening sibility for servicing and Maintaining Vancouver, and make a few more included in the first draw. Thanks again dress, jacket and tie. That's it for now, machinery at Eaglescliffe Golf Club friends. Also it was great to see an old to everyone who has supported this any news or views please contact me and he boasts the fact that in three friend of mine Steve Peters, now Head Section fund raiser. on 0151 724 5412 or Mobile 07761 years only one piece of machinery has Greenkeeper of Blankney Golf Club. John Crawford. 583387. had to go away to be repaired, well Steve and I both attended Reaseheath Bert Cross done Shaun for setting an example for College, so we had plenty of happy others to follow A BIGGA Committee memories to talk about. North Wales Meeting has taken place at The Section has arranged a Lecture Well the month of January brought Middlesbrough Municipal Golf Club evening, which is to be held at Kirby us all some proper weather even to discuss various issues, including Muxloe Golf Club on Tuesday April though it did go to the other extreme forthcoming events and golf tourna- 10. The speakers are to include our of freezing, at least we were able to ments. Education and Training Manager, Ken North West move soil etc around the course to get A newsletter is being prepared and Richardson; a representative from I have just completed the fixtures for some of our construction work com- will be sent out when things have been Bernard's Grinders and myself. As I am the year, and by the time you read these pleted. But oh yes the rains came again confirmed, any news please contact me sure you are all aware by the time you notes you should all have received you and our course is yet again saturated on 07719193381 have read this article I shall have recent- fixture list for the year I would like to and closed. Steven Jaques ly returned from the Canadian thank Rufford Soil Technology for The extreme weather conditions International Turfgrass Conference once again sponsoring the printing and have brought about the need for North East and Trade Show in Vancouver which distribution of the fixtures, and once extreme greenkeeping, with many On behalf of the Section we would was kindly sponsored by Bernard's again I ask you to support the Section courses so wet and the grass still grow- like to thank Terry Charlton, of Turf Grinders, and I would like to share my events, and make it all worth the time ing the only solution was to cut Care, once again for providing a coach knowledge, that I have acquired from spent organising. If for any reason you fairways and rough during the freeze, to Scotsturf. From what I have been this wonderful trip by producing a talk have not received a list of fixtures, or the results have meant courses are now told he put quite a spread on, and also for you all on this evening. Forms will if you are a new member please give playable, with good definition of fair- prizes for raffles etc. Thanks again be sent to you shortly and your atten- me a ringan d I will send you one imme- ways and memberships that can now Terry. dance will be greatly appreciated. diately play again, everyone happy! it just Matfen Hall are about to start anoth- Finally I would like to congratulate I have been informed that Paul shows that at times we just have to er extra 9 holes in the Spring I believe Chris Bates on his appointment as First Worsencroft, Head Greenkeeper at throw the rule book out of the win- on the other side of the road should Assistant Greenkeeper at Scraptoft Knutsford Golf Club, has been dow. be a good test of golf as there is already Golf Club. Chris was formally involved in a car accident, and his wife On March 21 you can visit Bathgate a fairly large pond on site. Mechanic/Greenkeeper at Kirby and two children where also in the car Silica at Archild Quarry if you are inter- Tyneside GC again has kindly offered Muxloe Golf Club. with him at the time Paul has broken ested please contact John Hammond their services for our winter seminars Antony Bindley both legs, and his wife is still very ill. on 01270 762828; our spring meet is the first one was in January and given Thankfully both of the children where at Ruddllan Golf Club on April 5, by Robert Laycock the agronomist, East of England uninjured, they are six months, and entrance is £12 under 21, £15 mem- and there was a good turn out with 30 The winter education seminar held three years old. I am told the driver of bers and £20 Guests, the North Wales greenstaff attending and a few of them at Newark Golf Club had Dennis the other car was killed outright, so I vs North West match will be played at nad a travelled 70 miles round trip. Mottram as its key speaker. Dennis suppose they are lucky to be alive. I Abergele Golf Club, date to be Robert, I must say, gave a very inter- talked all day on 'Understanding Soils' am sure we all wish them a speedy announced, anyone interested in get- esting talk and the Section thanks him The day was broken into various top- recovery, and soon put this nasty ting our shield back please contact our for his time and effort. ics and members were involved in episode behind them. I must mention match secretary Jeremy Hughes. February 8, and the talk was given group participation, which added to also that Knutsford Golf Club are very At the college, Graham Wright would by Peter Hampton, of Bernharas of the day Nearly 50 members enjoyed supportive of him, and that his job is like to hear from any Head Rugby, on reel maintenance again this a very informative seminar. safe no matter how long it takes. I wish Greenkeeper's who are interested in was another interesting subject with Thanks to all the excellent trade more golf clubs took this attitude. giving tall« to NVQ level 2 students the greenkeepers who attended finding members for providing all the excellent The Mere Seminar is on Thursday, on afternoons in the summer. out one or two things that would make raffle prizes which came from March 22 with a programme for the The Section welcomes back into the the tasks easier, it's only a pity that Barenbrug Seeds, Aitkens, Cannon's day based on how to overcome the fold Mr Andrew Campbell, MG. You only a third of January's turnout both- Turf, Rigby Taylor, Ruffords problems caused by the inclement know it makes sense mate! ered to be there. Still it was their loss. Topdressing, Alpha Amenity, weather over the last 12 months. There Finally, our Section at this moment Don't forget April 5 is the Spring Boughton Loams and Amenity will also be a demonstration of gravel in time has two of our members serv- Comp at mrkworth and the Autumn Technology A lot of members have been asking about another computer anyway. For anyone that hasn't been course, if I can get enough support I up to BTME then I'd recommend it will gladly organise the day, so let me for a night out, there really are some know if you are interested. eye openers up there even by my stan- The fixture list is now complete and dards! will be with you shortly. A new spon- Jon Scoones (01189 723334) sor this year for our second fixture is Amenity Technology which replaces the Les Purdy's Golf Day which unfor- tunately has packed in. Graeme Macdonald Midland Firstly I would like to offer a warm London welcome to our six new Members, It's been a quiet month on all fronts Andrew Miller, Gary Watkins, Colin really Just when you think the weath- Woodward, Christopher Young, er is starting to improve after Keith Abercrombie and Jason Simms. Christmas we succumb to yet more It was good to see some familiar rain and flooding. Who wants to be faces at BTME which, again, offered a Greenkeeper! an excellent opportunity to learn and Still it's not all bad news around develop professionally as well as mix the Section. Some good from West socially. All in all a very rewarding Herts GC in that Andy Smith has week. By now each member will have been confirmed as Course Manager. received a 2001 Section programme Congratulations to Andy who can - omitted on December 13 is the also look forward to the construction AGM 4.15pm start. Anyone wishing of new maintenance sheds in the very to offer a tournament venue for 2002 near future. would be very welcome to contact Going back to the incredibly wet Rhys Thomas on 07775581615. weather I had an interesting tour of Finally, British Seed Houses are Browns in Chesham recently and if proposing a visit to IGER you think we've all got flooding prob- Aberystwyth in July. Those interest- lems think again. The weather ed in this excellent two day trip please coming off the hills around the yard contact Andy Smith 07977 145091. at Browns means that without con- Phil Gates stant pumping the staff would by now have developed gills and fins. BBO They do say that goldfish have a five My apologies for missing last second memory span so no change month's article but, I was very busy for the guys in stores department at the time breaking my New Year s then! if you're reading lads it's just a resolutions. Most were broken by joke - honest! about am New Year's day apart from As I said in my last report our no smoking which I'm pleased to say Spring Meeting will take place at is still going strong, but believe me Stocldev Park GC in May - date to the the lads at work wish I hadn't. be confirmed. Please support the day Never mind, so it's into the new if you can. A couple of recent appoint- BIG idea in year and what have we got to look ments around the Section have seen forward to? The members moaning Martin Guy installed as the new compact tractors about the temporary greens, more Course Manager at the American With front, centre and rear power take-offs, the Agrokid is rain, the staff whingeing about the Golf-owned Oakwood Park and Guy cold and then some more rain just for Jenkins moving from West Herts GC equipped for the broadest range of applications. Speeds of luck. But don't panic there is always to the Course* Manager'Ma s position at 540 and 1000 rev/min plus ground speed for rear-mounted the Section events to look forward to. Denham GC Every success to both. Now before you get the rope out and As you may or may not know here equipment, and 1000 and 2000 rev/min for front and start putting it around your neck we at Sandy Lodge we have undergone mid-mounted machines means the Agrokid will earn its should have the golf days confirmed some major redevelopment work in within the next couple of months so the late summer. But we're not the keep all year round. Combined with Deutz-Fahr's if you have had any problems with only ones - oh no! Ian Semple, at Old quality engineering and reliable technology, the Agrokid mailing from HQ ie. change of Fold Manor GC has overseen the address or incorrect address then con- refurbishment of several bunkers, car- guarantees maximum economy because of its unbeatable tact BIGGA HQ as soon as possible, ried out by Kestrel Golf, who utilisation potential. that way we can be sure everyone is incidentally were the contractor for getting an entry slip. our work as well. John Merriman, at The Section would like to wish Batchworth Park, can also look for- Choose from 25, 35 or 42hp models. Dean Thatcher, at Radgemore, a ward to another nine holes in the near speedy recovery from his recent ill- future. For more information contact your ness (meningitis). He has been off At Harpenden Common GC new work since mid-July, but hopes to be maintenance sheds are the order of Deutz-Fahr dealer or e-mail [email protected] back this spring. the day Steve Brocldehurst and his Also we have several new members team have recently moved in to the Same Deutz-Fahr UK Ltd, Barby Lane, Barby, Rugby, to the Section and would like to wel- new building which is situated in a Warwickshire CV23 8TD come: Geoffrey Carrigan, Drayton much more accessible position on the Telephone: 01788 891892 Fax: 01788 891387 Park; Chris Collins, Reading; course. Matthew Flicks, Huntercombe; Digressing wildly away from Alastair Higgs, Calcot Park; Michael Greenkeeping just to blow my own Randall, Huntercombe, and Gary trumpet for a moment myself and Wiltshire, Ellesbrough. Rob Washbrook, Deputy Head One last thing before I go and that Greenkeeper at Hadley Wood GC, is that I'd like to thank the blokes last month reached the last 16 of the from Tacit for getting me even more Herts Carpet Bowls singles tourna- plastered than I already was up at ment. See you in the final Rob! Harrogate. Well I think it was them Finally, Anyone looldng for the ulti- mate driving experience should con- Gentleman's Dinner at Walton South Coast back to our sunny little Section. tact Peter Hopkinson, at Browns, Heath Golf Club and April 25, our Have you ever been to the BTME There are only two things to men- who has a Y Registration VW Golf spring meeting at Frinton Golf Club. Learning Experience? I went to my tion this month. The first is for sale - £950 o.v.n.o. Taxed until the By the time this gets published you first one this year and I was very Westurf. You should have all had end of March, no MOT and four slick should be in receipt of your fixture impressed by the two days. So if you the information on the day by now, no weather tyres. No time wasters list, if not contact Martin Forrester. haven't been before I can thor- so please show your support for the please. Don't all rush to the phones (01245) 603131. oughly recommend it. day and try to come along. at once! Finally a message to Gordon Scott, The show itself was much bigger, If anyone knows anyone who Robert Phillips of Toothill Golf Club. Thanks for and so was my hangover! It is now would like to exhibit anything at the your letter, sorry it has been a while spread over more halls, so it takes show, then let Paula know. You can Essex but rest assured you will be contact- an age to get round it all, but it is contact her on 01288 352194. By Train is Much Easier ed by us to set up a ] a good show with everything you've Stands are going cheap this year, so With all the bad press the rail ser- at your course. See you all at Writtle, ever wanted there. Well done to don't think that it's expensive. vice has received recently you can if not Frinton or Walton Heath. everyone who organised the week. The second item is the Spring appreciate why four of our members Steve Crosdale Anyway, enough of BTME, and Tournament. Chris Sturgess works and two gentlemen from Rigby Taylor decided to take the safe option and hire a seven seater vehicle and drive up to the BTME in comfort. All went smoothly on the journey up to V 7' Harrogate and the same was expect- ed on their return, but this was not to be. Steve Denton and Dennis Smith, Rigby Taylor; Martin South West Forrester, Stapleford Abbotts GC; Some of the Section have been on a Adrian Cornell, Colne Valley GC; memorable visit to this years BTME Peter Hurrell, The Warren GC, and in Harrogate. On their behalf I would Ian Squires, Orchard GC, ground to like to thank BIGGA headquarters for a halt at 11.30 pm just five miles from a very good show, it seemed to be a the Mil services at Stansted, no great success! problem, phone the AA, get a replace- The coach kindly sponsored by ment vehicle and be on their way. The Amenity Technology was a vast VERTI-Dïwm rescue service company that were improvement, thank you. Our appre- * • - m fin .. J working for the AA, (lets call them ciation to Paula Humphries for her the AB), said that a replacement vehi- help and organisation was also shown cle would be delivered to the Mil by presenting her with a large bouquet services by the hire company, so off of flowers. they went confident of getting home It was great to see old and new faces witnin the next hour or so. Just one around BTME even a gathering of thing prevented this from happening, Welsh and Southwest members were no car at the services. Once again the seen popping and trotting around AB, who it must be said did their best Harrogate Town Centre. A new mem- to get these people home, contacted ber 'Sid' I believe was tucked up the hire company, it's ok we can get watching "The Rock" on television on another hire car at the other pick up night one but then on night two and point - Cambridge! By this point, three I could give a good account of (12.20am) temperatures were start- him but then maybe not! Our thanks ing to rise, all except Mr Denton who go out to Richard Wyman who helped kept a level head through the whole one member suffering from amnesia, YOU'LL charade. who was unable to remember his They arrived at Cambridge to once name, room number, or how to open agaiin be greeted by an empty space doors! wherwhe e a car should have been. The Section are pleased to announce Anybody who has seen Planes,Trains that Guy Woods, Course Manager of and Automobiles will appreciate what Bath Golf Club, has agreed to become QUICK was going through their minds. They Education Officer. We believe he will were however assured that a replace- bring new ideas to the Section and we ment vehicle was on its way, another welcome your support, he can be con- one and a half hours passed. Finally, tacted on 01225 333928 for all your up rolled the smallest seven seater in training needs, Congratulations to the world, a Fiat Punto. Disgusted at Craig Fudge and Nick Perkins on their what had passed Mr Denton took the recent promotions to the new Head & SEET bull by the horns and ordered a taxi Deputy Greenkeepers respectively of to take them all home, quite a good the Kendleshire, which is now under deal really only £120 and they did all new ownership. Kevin Green is still get home by 5.15am, nearly six hours involved in a new build in Bristol after breaking down just 45 minutes called "The Players". away from home. Perhaps the trains Westurf is upon us so please support aren't so bad after all! it on March 14 at Westpoint, Exeter. Now onto business. The first of this The next event is the Spring tour- year's Educational Evenings is to be nament kindly sponsored by Scotts, at held at Writtle College on March 22, Thoulstone Park GC, on April 5. If the subject matter is not yet known you have not yet received any corre- but keep the date free in your diary. spondence about the Sections events While on the subject of Education I contact Kevin James the secretary on have to congratulate Phil Allibon, of 07788427677. Without doubt, the new \fcrti- the Burstead Golf Club, and myself Any member wishing to be consid- Drain Mustang is the fastest, most for passing the HNC in Sportsturf ered for the team match on May 3 at effective aerator on the market today. Science and The NVQ Level 3, two the Manor House please contact Whilst it still features the unique, ears, three for some, hard work glad- Knobby Knight on 01225 760634. patented 'heave' action, there are many ly finished. Any news views or info please con- î new improvements, including single Upcoming golfing and social fix- tact me on 01285 720112. point arm adjustment, a stronger tine tures are Friday, March 9, The Annual D. Bougen support system and fewer working parts. very hard organising the tourna- and address. If you have any ry The Education Fund, and not the departed from Fingle Glen this year, ments, so try and help him out by queries, then you can phone Chris money taken for the day, pay for all the coach was excellent and the videos getting your names and money in on 02380 494084. the speakers' expenses. All the mon- on board kept members amused on early The Spring Tournament is at Please remember that if you have ey taken for the seminar, as with the long trip North. the Army GC, Aldershot, this year. to pull out of the event, then give other events, goes towards the cost The snow itself just seems to get bet- The price for the day is £21, this Chris at least seven days notice. If of the venue and the food. ter each year and is now one that you includes 27 holes, morning coffee, you don't, then you are liable to still Well that's all for this month. can't afford to miss. Many members lunch and dinner. £21 is cheap for pay for the day, as the golf club will Mike Cartwright. attended the Amenity Technology all that, so you would be mad to still charge the section. You have evening which I hear was buzzing with miss it! been warned! Devon and Cornwall atmosphere Cheques should be made payable The seminar at Sparsholt would As usual the first event of the Congratulations must go to our to BIGGA and sent to Chris at 40 have been and gone by the time this New Year for many members was Regional Administrator Paula and Kinsbourne Way, Thornhill, column goes to print, but if anyone to attend the BTME show held in Stuart Ashworth, of Amenity Southampton, Hants, SO 19 6HB. is concerned about the fees charged the lovely town of Harrogate, the Technology, who had organised the Don't forget to include your name by some of the speakers, don't wor- region's annual trip to the show superb trip. Also, I would like to con- Speed camera It can drive its 6" tines, solid or outsold and outperformed all Contact us now for further hollow, at a faster rate than any other competitors for the past 20 years. information or a demonstration of the new Redexim + aerator, which makes it the perfect And, with an aerator to suit Verti-Drain Mustang on 01428 661222. machine for high speed runs down the virtually every application, it's the widest fairway and for even shorter work on the range available anywhere. Charterhouse Turf Machinery Ltd, CHartetiiouseV TM greens. But one word of caution. Wbydown Industrial Estate, Weydown The new Mustang joins the market- The new Mustang is fast; so fast Road, Haslemere, Surrey, GU27 1DW E-Mail: [email protected] leading range of \£rti-Drains that have that you may get done in a flash. Tel: 01428 661222. Fax: 01428 661218. Web Site: http://www.redexim.com March 2001 Greenkeeper International 49 gratulate all the staff at head office for Spa, and also answered questions relat- Region can support you. very interesting evening with practi- organising a superb BTME. ing to Woodhall Spa and the EGU. Richard Whyman cal demonstration and slides. The Section's first meeting of the year The Section would like to thank our Bring you up to date with the was sponsored by Barenbrug Seeds and meeting sponsor Barenbrug and David South Wales Seminar next month although we held at Royal North Devon Golf Club Singleton for their continued sponsor- I gather BTME was again another look forward to a health & safety on Wednesday January 31. The day ship. Also, our thanks must go to Mark success combining the National update on 14th of this month and on started with our golfing members com- Evans and his crew for all their efforts Education Conference which is sup- April 11, the Annual Quiz. peting over the clubs links course for on the day, Last but not least our thanks plemented by practical greenkeeping Richard Hatcher prizes kindly donated by Barenbrug must go to Royal North Devon Golf workshops including machinery UK, our non golfing members were Club for allowing the Section use of maintenance, computer skills and golf treated to a guided tour of the sheds their facilities and all their staff who course design & grass/soil science. The and course by Head Greenkeeper Mark made our day run so smoothly key speaker for the seminars was none Evans before returning for lunch. Our last meeting of the winter pro- other than the world landspeelandsp d record After an excellent lunch David ramme will be the Aventis and holder Richard Noble, of Thrust 2, Singleton of Barenbrug UK presented the fupaturf meeting which will be held at Other seminars included health & mornings golf prizes as follows 1. Roserow Golf Club on Wednesday safety and the environment issues. Anthony Parker, Saunton, 38pts all on March 28, the day will start as always Well done to all the trade and the Northern Ireland back 9; z. Tony Gooch, Torrington, 38pts; with golfing members competing for the organisers of the exhibition. The Section had an educational visit 3. Kevin Dymond, Mortehoe & Supaturf Trophy (Head Greenkeepers), In January we had our first evening to Coleraine and Ballymoney where we Woolacombe, 38pts. Aventis Trophy (Assistants). lecture in conjunction with the JOG visited Geoff Connell, of the company Our afternoon educational talk was Remember that Westurf is now at with 32 persons present. Keep it up! Grass Roots, to see the product TDC9 presented by Peter Wisbey, Courses Westpoint, Exeter on Wednesday, Geoffrey Davidson presented us with being produced. Geoff gave us a very Manager of the EGU Woodhall Spa, March 14. his extensive knowledge of drainage informative tour of the facilities show- Peter gave an excellent presentation on So let's see a big attendance from the systems including the types, specifi- ing us the different stages of production. his management policy at Woodhall Section and support the Region so the cation & design and soil texture. A Mr Ivor Ramage, of the NOMIX company also gave us a detailed intro- ductory talk on the NOMIX compact SCOTLAND sprayer. He also kindly donated a REGIONAL Peter Boyd Regional Administrator Tel/Fax: 0I4I 6I6 3440 Email: [email protected] NOMIX sprayer, herbicide and clean- ADMINISTRATOR er for a prize draw. The prize was won AYRSHIRE Derek Wilson Irvine Bogside GC Club: Ol294 276I77 Mobile: 0370 734360 by Ballymena Club Club. I would like to thank Geoff and Ivor for their hos- CENTRAL John Crawford Stirling GC Club: 01786 464098 Mobile: 07979 9885I8 pitality, the refreshments were very well EAST Stephen Dixon Kings Knowe GC Club: 0I3I 443 0235 received. After the visit to Grass Roots NORTH Douglas Duguid Westhill GC Club: 01224 740329 we all travelled the short distance to WEST Alexander Bulloch Fereneze GC Club: 0I4I 88I I5I9 Groundsman Industries in Ballymoney The company was formed by Bill NORTHERN Warke and specialise in making a vari- ety of turf aerators and core collectors. REGIONAL Douglas Bell Regional Administrator Tel/Fax: 0I5I 43I 0433 Email: [email protected] ADMINISTRATOR Tne wide range of machines can be fit- ted to a Cushman, various sizes of NEAST Jimmy Richardson Hexham GC Club: 0I434 602057 Email: [email protected] tractors, or pedestrian models which N WEST Bert Cross (Retired) Tel/Fax: 0I5I 724 54I2 can be used on smaller areas. Bill has NORTHERN Andy Smith Howley Hall GC Club: 01924 4784I7 Email: [email protected] designed all the machines himself and CLEVELAND Barry Walker Wearside GC Mobile: 0589 658I6I also the wide range of tines that can be used for whatever job is required SHEFFIELD Chris Astle Wheatley GC Club: 0I302 83I655 whether for overseeding, thatch N WALES Trevor Johnston Eastham Lodge GC Club: 0I5I 327 3003 removal, or aeration. Neil McLaughlin, from Greenmount College was also on MIDLAND hand to give a talk on aeration. Bill gave REGIONAL Les Emery Regional Administrator Tel: 0II6 287 9036 us a tour of his factory explaining the ADMINISTRATOR different manufacturing stages that E MIDLAND Antony Bindley Kirby Muxloe GC Tel: 0II6 289 030I Email: [email protected] take place in constructing the machines and tines. The 25 members who MIDLAND Philip Gates Trentham GC Club: 01782 658I09 attended would like to thank Bill Warke E ENGLAND Graeme MacDonald Newark GC Tel: Ol636 626564 and his staff for the excellent food and BERKS/BUCKS/OX Lindsay Anderson Badgemore Park GC Club: 0I49I 572206 drinks he provided. MID ANGLIA Gerald Bruce Berkhamstead GC Club: Ol442 865832 Mobile: 0374 92I606 The members found the afternoon visit very beneficial. The Section held SOUTH EAST a committee meeting in early January REGIONAL Derek Farrington Tel/Fax: 0I903 260956 Mobile: 07850 I6240I Email: [email protected] to formulate but golf days for the year ADMINISTRATOR so members will be informed in early SURREY Ian Sellers Sheerwater Mobile: 07855 25I047 spring of the dates and venues. A sub committee has formed to organise the KENT Gary Debenham Boughton GC Club: 01227 752277 Mobile: 04I0 624562 next Educational Seminar which will be SUSSEX Stefan Antolik Cooden Beach GC Club: 01424 846I30 held in the autumn of 2002. the LONDON Ian Semple Old Fold Manor GC Club: 020 8441 2077 Chairman of the committee is Emmett Curran so if any member has any ideas E ANGLIA Ian Willett Thorpeness GC Club: 01728 452I76 for the seminar Emmett can be con- ESSEX Martin Forrester Stapleford Abbotts GC Tel: 01245 603I3I Mobile: 07773 630323 tacted at Downpatrick Golf Club on SOUTH WEST / SOUTH WALES Tel.: 44612152. I would like to welcome Robert Crooks REGIONAL Paula Humphries Tel/Fax: 0I288 352I94 Mobile: 07773 664563 Email: [email protected] ADMINISTRATOR and Gordon McBride Malone Golf Club back to the Section which brings our SWEST Kevin James Weston-Super-Mare GC Club: 0I934 626968 membership up to 110 and still growing. S COAST Fred Deamen Alton GC Club: 0I420 82042 Please remember our next event is at DEVON C/WALL Richard Whyman Bude & N C/Wall GC Club: 01288 352006 Email: [email protected] Downpatrick Golf Club on March 27 starting at 2pm where we will play 9 holes S WALES Peter Lacey Pennard GC Tel: 0I792 233923 Mobile: 0797I 9I4I2I of golf and attend tall« by Liz Wilson, of JA Humphries on grass seeds and also NORTHERN IRELAND Ian McClements the STRI agronomist will give a talk on a subject of his choice. N Ireland Allison Sloan Ballymena GC Club: 02825 862757 Email: [email protected] Ken Henderson 50 Greenkeeper International March 2001 How to stop the grass growing from under your feet. Longhand account. Shortcut version. Trinexapac-ethyl is the active ingredient in A unique turf management tool that can reduce Shortcut that works by redirecting plant growth. mowing frequency and grass clippings by half, It specifically targets the gibberellic acid site improves turf colour and helps manage annual responsible for cell elongation in grass. Not only meadow grass. does Shortcut inhibit vertical growth but actually diverts plant growth downward into the root system to produce increased food reserves and lateral stem development. This in turn produces a thicker, healthier sward that better equips your turf to withstand temperature extremes, moisture loss, traffic and wear and even helps in the management of Poa annua. American research has also established that Shortcut can enhance the performance of a fungicide when jointly SHORTCUT applied and has no adverse effect on seedling development. The Scotts Difference BUYERS' GUfpg Q. Buyers Aeration Construction Guide HYDROJECT AERATION AND CHEMICAL INJECTION SERVICE (WITH NO SURFACE DISTURBANCE) The most cost effective A full range of expertly operated turf care »Advice Application Specialist way of reaching readers of KEITH DRIVER Golf Course Constructors Greenkeeper International. (SPORTSTURF CONTRACTOR) Supply • Training Tel: 01273 564015 Mobile: 0958 532008 DRIFT FREE Contract Spraying constructor jg). (023) 9259 2390 8 Morecambe Rd, Brighton, Sussex BN1 8TL utilising our purpose built machine Just call Cheryl Broomhead Fax: (023) 9257 0218 Diane Bray or Meredith The Mobile: 07710 450454 Foster on 01347 833800 SPRAYING MANTIS member www.artington-golf.co.uk and ask about an Freephone: 0800 068 08 78 Email: [email protected] alphabetical category UlTI-COftS listing; the cost starts Genuine Parts & Tines Fax: 07000 481022 from as little as £29.50 MULTICORE TM 1000/TM 1500 Car: 0850 300104 per month. J M^^^WMiMl MULTICORE GREENKEEPER Unit 14, Roundshead Drive, Warfield, Berkshire RG42 3RZ WEED FREE is a Registered Trade Mark Contact Wnndlands Brigstock Ltd The Dnuble A Trading Cn Tel: [01536] 373 238 Tel: [D1334] 657 602 Artificial Grass CONTOUR GOLF • LIMITED Construction of new golf development / VERDE SPORTS and upgrading of existing courses LIMITED Tel: 01327 879464 \JTel: 01254 831666 Fax: 01254 831066 Fax: 01327 705777 hff Y Tel: 1 Jubilee Cottages, Norton Rd, # VERDE TEE FRAME Daventry, Northants NN11 5LS mm Steel platform, woven grass top Irish Office no. 064 39965 # VERDE WINTER TEE ÉH Generous size, self-install kit // # VERDE DRIVING MATS Top Quality - Long Life - Best Prices Vi Agronomy # ARTIFICIAL GRASSES Comprehensive range for pathways, winter tees and putting B Jamieson # DRIVING BAYS & NETS 2000 Limited For club and home use • Construction • Remodelling Golf Advisors Ltd Gabbotts Farm Barn, Bury Lane, • Reservoir Works Bruce Jamieson Golf Advisors Ltd, is an Withnell, Chorley, Lancashire PR6 8SW established company offering expert advice on; www.verdesports.com email: [email protected] Tel: 01604 468908 Please call for samples & information # Golf Course maintenance Fax: 01604 474853 A BIGGA # Tournament preparation & presentation # Machinery selection www.deltagolf2000.co.uk SPORTSWATCH # Budgeting Bio-lechnology 180 Ruskin Road, Kingsthorpe, # Staff recruitment Northampton NN2 7TA # Soil & turf analysis th Simply look through all the products # Establishment of new golf courses Our 10 year supplying biotech solutions and services in our guide and name Contact: Bruce Jamieson the companies which the following Browntop, 17 Haywarden Place, Hartley Wintney, Hants, RG27 8UA Telephone: 01252 844847 www.bjgolf.co.uk Thinking about a telephone numbers refer to; biological programme?9 J & E ELY a. 01759 321000 GOLF COURSE KEITH MCKEE ASSOCIATES b. 01797 252298 INTERNATIONAL TURFGRASS CONSULTANT AGRONOMISTS First ask a biologist CONSTRUCTION Over 30 years of experience in advising golf Reading, Berks C. 01752 330060 courses throughout Europe and beyond. Contact Louisa Farthing BSc • Completely independent advisory service. Tel/Fax: 0118 9722257 Write down your three answers on a or Stella Inglethorpe BSc • 24 hour advice line. E-mail: [email protected] postcard and send your entries to:- • Full analytical service • Problem solving (large or small) Tel: 01372 456101 40th Anniversary Know Your Numbers, Greenkeeper • Advice on Golf Course maintenance • New course establishment Email: [email protected] BAOECs 1961 - 2001 ULY; International, BIGGA HOUSE, O/ Aldwark, Alne, York Y061 1UF 78 The Street, Manuden, Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 1DS Bunker Rakes www.elygolfconstruction.com Entries to reach us no later than Tel: (+44)(0) 1279 813574 Fax: (+44)(0) 1279 815191 Monday, March 19, 2001. The first Mobile: 077 11 554282 MEMBERS BUNKER RAKES correct entry drawn will receive Email: [email protected] FROM ONLY £2.54 EACH Specialists a stylish BIGGA Sportswatch! Strong construction complete with replaceable threaded handle in Golf The judges decision is final. No 12 for £2.99 each Course correspondence will be entered into. 50 for £2.69 each Construction This competition is not open to 100 for £2.54 each BIGGA staff or non-members. Prices are for complete rakes, delivered Rake support pegs - 70p each. JOHN GREASLEY LIMITED Last month, Derek Neve, from Brough Made in the UK by MW Dyason Ltd, "Ashfield House" »1154 Melton Road GC, East Yorkshire, certainly knew his 6/10 Hitchmead Road, Syston • Leicester • LE7 2HB numbers when he correctly identified Biggleswade, SG18 0NH all three telephone numbers. / > Tel: 0116 269 6766 Tel: 01767 317011 Fax: 01767 317186 Mobile: 0836 553899 Our congratulations and a a fantastic Fax: 0116 269 6866 BIGGA sportswatch are on their way Amenity Spraying to you! Charcoal ENGLISH ECOLOGICAL ENTERPRISES If your u/eeds took bad, and it don't look good, Course Equipment utho you qonna call... 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Telephone Call now on: 01405 814889 Tel: 01865 736 272 For a full list of 01765 602175 01765 690598 Mobile: 07967 504313 Fax: 01865 326 176 members contact Fax 01765 603488 SfSS David Halford m www.watersideirrigation.co.uk Email:[email protected] 1 Email: [email protected] www.whitehorsecontractors.co.uk Area Dealer www.par4int.u-net.com Tel/Fax: 07041 363130 ¿4c u U 6c amazed whew toe. Lodge Hill, Abingdon, Oxon 0X14 2JD Machinery BANKS AMENITY PRODUCTS LTD RAILWAY EXCLUSIVE MANUFACTURERS OF FENDRESS GREENTOP™ & FENDRESS™ TOP DRESSINGS SUPERIOR, CONSISTENT TOP DRESSINGS AT QUALITY TEL: 01302 888676 FAX: 01302 880547 AFFORDABLE PRICES TEL: 01858 464346 / 433003 • WE WILL BEAT- GOLF IRRIGATION CONSULTANTS AASSURED ANY Speak to Europe's most experienced, Used groundcare equipment GENUINE independent consultants for objective, QUOTE unbiased advice, before deciding Wide selection available Shirley Aldred a Co. Ltd -YORK & MARTIN www.sleeper-supplies.co.uk Suppliers of high quality PO BOX 1192 FORDINGBRIDGE granular charcoal for over 200 years HANTS, SP6 1YP, U.K. Crossing Timbers, 4"x 4" Posts Tel. 01425 652087 Fax. 01425 652476 DOUBLE A and Telegraph Poles • Use one of the oldest • Totally organic product Prestonhall Industrial Estate, products known to man to treat black layer • Mr9e stock levels Cupar, Fife of all grades Lake Construction/Liners I Prevent thatch build up RAILWAY SLEEPERS I Delivery anywhere in I Improve drainage mainland UK within Tel: 01334 657602 I WOODEN AND CONCRETE SLEEPERS and rootzone % 3-4 days www.doublea.co.uk I BEST PRICES ON ALL GRADES AND SIZES I CROSSING TIMBERS, TELEGRAPH POLES Tel: 01433 620003 BLOH I NEW AND SECONDHAND ISO 9002 I A QUALITY ASSURED COMPANY Fax: 01433 620388 0 I NATIONWIDE DELIVERY GRASS THOUSANDS IN STOCK Trees Liners for lakes, ponds and MACHINERY Tel: 01302 365222 storage lagoons from the Large selection of new and Fax: 01302 341691 UK's leading contractor second hand Turi Maintenance Machinery in stock. TRACKWORK LTD Comprehensive advice FAST-GROWING w.trackwork.co.uk & www.railwaysleepers.uk.c regarding design and FREE DELIVERY IN UK. Email: [email protected] construction of water areas Warranty given. Also interested in purchasing surplus machines. Growth of 6-8 feet per year Tel: 01206 262676 Fax: 01206 262998 Root Zone Tel/Fax: 01829 720280 For rapid improvement to new E-mail: [email protected] Mobile: 0378 063418 and developing Golf Courses BANKS AMENITY PRODUCTS LTD www.geosynthetic.co.uk Hybrid Poplars used for specimen and group plantings SUPPLIERS OF to make handsome trees and perimeter windbreaks. FENDRESS™ ROOTZONE TO USGA Hybrid Willows used for screens, hedges, wind- WATERPROOFING ECONOMY ROOTZONE breaks, and dense cover on course. PIVOT MIXES Both are tolerant of poor soils and sites and require little post-planting care. FOR A COMPETITIVE QUOTATION CALL All sizes available from 12 inch slips to OI858 464346 / 433003 8 foot well-rooted trees. SERVICES Prices including delivery from £42 per 100, or £380 per 1000 POND & LAKE TOPDRESSING SANDS Free information pack and advice without LINING SPECIALISTS TREE SAND • ROOTZONES obligation Phone Gordon Hill on DRAINAGE & SUB-BASE MATERIALS 01404 812229 or Fax on 01404 815800 CONTACT US ON Freephone Sam on Bowhayes Farm, Venn Ottery, Devon, EX11 1RX Nursery Stock 0800 7317450 or visit www.bowhayesfarm.co.uk TEL: 01249 655539 Alan Hadley Limited FAX: 01525 261103 Fenton House, 102 Grazeley Road, Three Mile Cross, Berks RG7 1BJ EMAIL: [email protected] Mahood Brothers United WHOLESALE NURSERYMEN Sports Netting Lookingfor Nursery Stock...? 100K NO FURTHER BIG Line Marking • Trees, feathereds, shrubs, • Free 58-page catalogue NATURE TREES gorse, transplants, available on request Vast range of semi-mature and conifers, heathers, etc. # Nursery ¡nspection first heavy standard trees available • Professional advice welcome from our nurseries. Nationwide LINE MARKING APPLICATORS and guidance # Weekly nationv.de planting service if required. Nature First Ltd. AND AEROSOLS • Instant quotations by delivery service fax or phone Wood Lane Nursery F~ Top quality reliable service at the right price! • TARGET GREENS Down Hatherley Gloucester TREE TEL: 01704 095014 • ANTI-BALL PLUGGING NETS GL2 9QB MOVING Tel: Ol452 731199 Move your own trees at a FAX: 01704 095557 Fax: 01452 731131 E-mail [email protected] Website: www.mahoods.co.uk • PADDED & NET BAY DIVIDERS fraction of the cost with our E-mail [email protected] fleet of modern tree spades. pH Control » BUNKER MEMBRANE m • PERIMETER FENCING Blue Diamond STL, Clayfields Industrial Estate, » BALL-STOP NET Tickhill Road, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN4 8QG I Freephone: 0800 5424 004 | u¿ • ANTI-DAZZLE NETTING STRANCO TEACHING GOLF NET & FRAME % pH control and dosing systems for your irrigation water, for improved turf quality. fH^SHHT SportsCourts Nationwide installation and commissioning GRASS GERMINATION GROWERS OF TREES 1 UK Limited service and advice. Contact Brian Sykes THE TREE CARRIAGE COMPANY Suppliers of all line marking materials:- For further information please contact Court Gate Nursery, Eckington, Pershore, Worcs WR10 3BB • Ready to use line marking paint USF STRANCO • Transfer wheel applicators Priory Works, Tonbridge, Kent TNI I OQL +44 (0)117 966 9684 Tel: 01386 750585 Fax: 01386 750197 • 750ml Aerosols with a selection of colours Telephone: 01732 354888 Fax: 01732 354222 • Aerosol Applicators • Prices on request lop Dressings Trenchers Tel: 01327 340333 Railway Sleepers Fax: 01327 341053 Email: [email protected] LANDSCAPING AF TRENCHERS LTD GRADE SLEEPERS Tel: 01787 311811 Fax: 01787 310888 E-mail: [email protected] SELECTED HARDWOOD Web site: www.trenchers.co.uk BRITAIN'S NO 1 FOR DECT QUALITY QUALITY AND SERVICE • Manufacturers of trenching machines PRICES DC9I TOP DRESSING • CONSTRUCTION specifically designed for sports turf mmmm also •••• ROOT ZONES • Digging chain and high performance SANDS • GRAVELS • GRASS SEED slitting wheel combinations available COCKLESHELL PATH MEDIA SOIL • PATHWAY MATERIALS for compact tractors BULK LOADS - DISCOUNTED PRICES Eaton Hall Quarry, Manchester Rd, • Larger trenching machines/slitting Congleton, Cheshire CW12 2LU wheels for tractors up to 120hp FINETURF PRODUCTS • Various backfilling equipment Tel: 01375 361606 Tel: 01260 281801 ¡BOURNE! TT ProTurf Manufacturers of quality dressings, including ( WORTH | green organic, fensoil & loams, for fairways, greens & tees, in loads of all sizes DRAINING GROWERS Serving the South of England. V / Kj AND SUPPLIERS Tel: (01797) 252298 Fax: (01797) 253115 VERTIDRAINING and •fi OF QUALITY CULTIVATED HOLLOW CORING HIRE TEES, GREENS AND AMENITY Distance no object \TGA 1 TURF COUNTRYWIDE Vertidraining Hire Contact Peter Bloodworth TEL: 01427 890797 Cornbecks Farm, Irnham, Grantham, Lincolnshire. Tel/Fax: 01476 550266 FAX: 01427 891785 NATIONWIDE or Paul Simpson, Manager Email: [email protected] VERTIDRAIN HIRE Tel: 01476 585 549 Mobile: 0797 450 4793 Turf Growers and Innovators SELF OPERATED of Turfgrass Systems TT ProTurf Ltd OR WITH OPERATOR CONTACT THE TRACTOR WITH 1.6m PROFESSIONALS £500 PER WEEK FREEPHONE 0500 432 120 The Chestnuts • Wilberfoss OR 0780 125 6767 York • Y041 5NT Turf Dressings TRACTOR WITH 2m DAY OR NIGHT BAILEY S OF NORFOLK £700 PER WEEK FOR ALL TYPES OF AERATION, Telephone: 01759 321000 £ GOLF TURF DRESSINGS %r SAND £ CULTIVATION AND SEEDING, Facsimile: 01759 380130 d- SCREENED TOP SOIL £ FEN SOIL TEL: 01522 869100 CONTACT MICHAEL SEWARD AT Deliveries Nationwide e-mail: [email protected] BAILEY'S OF NORFOLK SEWARD TURF MAINTENANCE website: www.inturf.com www.couiitygrass.co.uk YORK Tel: 01603 754607 Classified TERRAX7ENT Classified Terravention. Precise decompaction, aeration and bio-nutrient injection. The proven process. For trees, for turf, for life... Telephone 01209 821613 Information MIR Fax 01209 821911 KEVV E-mail [email protected] Do you have a machine that is surplus to your requirements? Or are you wanting to buy that specific piece of INVET^ equipment, but don't quite know where to find it? Then why not advertise your Sales and/or Wants in Greenkeeper ^.bigga-org-uk a International's Classified section! For as little as £60, your boxed advert will be seen by over 10,000 readers of this award winning publication. Simply complete the order form on the right (in block VcJJJ capitals please), not forgetting to include your name, address, telephone or fax number and email address. D;J J M Upon receipt, your order will Visit our website at be acknowledged by telephone, fax or email along www*bissa*ors*uk with details of the cost and and check out the publication date of the next latest chat from the edition. Remember, send no greenkeeping industry money now, an invoice will be raised after publication. FOR GREENKEEPERS BY GREENKEEPERS Send your completed order form to: Cheryl Broomhead, Greenkeeper International, BIGGA CHAT GREENKEEPERS HOUSE, Aldwark, Alne, York YO611UF, or alternatively fax the form to us on 01347 833802 V J Recruitment Based in County Kilkenny, Ireland, this Member's Club was formed in 1935 and is now looking for a Technical Sales Head Greenkeeper To lead a team of hardworking staff Specialists Suitable applicants should have a good all-round experience in the methods Sherriff Amenity Services pride itself on providing sound and proven tech- and techniques required to maintain and present a golf course and ancillary nical advice, along with one of the most comprehensive and areas to the highest standard. up-to-date product portfolio in the amenity market. They should possess a recognised Greenkeeping qualification and be con- Wholly owned by one of the largest corporate organisations in the world, versant with the use of up to date methods and use of resources. Sherriff Amenity Services continues to develop its Technical Sales Force in both the 'Fine Turf and 'Local Authority' sectors. Reporting to the Course Manager, this is an ideal opportunity for an ambi- tious and dedicated Greenkeeper to utilise their skills across the broad As a result positions throughout the South and West of England, Midlands remit of course maintenance. This will include the management and moti- and the North are available. We are seeking individuals who wish to build vation of the Greenstaff and the scope to improve and enhance this vital a career based on sound and proven technical knowledge and expertise, area of a Member's Club. full product training will be given, along with the support and guidance necessary to develop a fulfilling career. The successful candidate will enjoy being a key player in the Club's exciting development to an 18 hole facility. Package will reflect the importance of the positions available. A good package will be offered to the right candidate in recognition of the Please write or contact us in the strictest confidence by phone to importance of this position. receive further details on the opportunities available to: Please apply in writing enclosing a C.V to The General Manager, Sherriff Amenity Services, The Secretary, Castlecomer Golf Club, Drumgoole, Castlecomer, 107 Clay Street, Sobam, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5HL County Kilkenny, Ireland. Telephone: 353 (0) 56 41139 Tel: 07909 997670 ONLINE RECRUITMENT BALLARDS GORE GOLF CLUB Ballards Gore Golf & Country Club has a vacancy for a Head Greenkeeper. All applicants must have hands on experience, . »Check out, motivation, capable of supervising and working with other staff as well as qualifications to NVQ Level 3, Spraying Certificates PA1 and www.bigga.org.uk 2 required PA6 an advantage. Must have sound knowledge of Irrigation Systems and Course Machinery. f Accommodation not available or the latest. Salary and Conditions negotiable. Please apply in writing with CV to:- The Secretary, Ballards Gore Golf & Country Club, M vacancies Gore Road, Canewdon, Essex SS4 2DA Trom the fineturf industry Experienced Greenkeeper - Maidenhead Golf Club Pinner Hill Golf Club Maidenhead Golf Club have a vacancy for an experienced greenkeeper - NVQ level 2 or equivalent - to join an enthusiastic team, committed to pro- 2 Greenkeepers ducing a high standard of presentation for members Et visitors. required We need a conscientious, self motivated person who compliments our Season March to October 2001, to assist in the maintenance strategy for success. of this parkland course 8 miles from central London. Good rates of pay. Accommodation available. Pay 8t conditions negotiable, reflecting current industry standards Et qualifi- cations. Applications in writing with CV to:- Apply in writing with C.V. to: Chris Nicholson,Course Manager, Pinner Hill Golf Club, South View Road, Pinner Hill, Middlesex, HA5 3YA. Mr D. Winterton, MG, The Head Greenkeeper, Maidenhead Golf Club, Shoppenhangars Road, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 2PZ. Or call on 020 8868 4562 Mobile: 0777 5523623 Recruitment STRI TURFGRASS AGRONOMIST Based in Ireland STRI is a leading independent turfgrass research and consultancy organisation. Our network of advisers visit over 2000 golf and sports facilities each year. The We require a new adviser to develop and expand our Wisley consultancy in Ireland, operating from a new regional office in the Republic of Ireland. They will The Wisley is one of Britain's premier Private Courses. work closely with our Regional Agronomist based in An exclusive 27 hole Members club designed by Trent- Northern Ireland. Jones Jr., and situated in delightful Surrey countryside. Good communication skills are essential for regular We wish to recruit an contact with clients, report writing, occasional lectures and contributions to publications. Good organisational and administrative skills are also Assistant needed. Applicants should have a degree in a plant or soil related science and experience of sportsturf Greenkeeper management would be a distinct advantage. The successful applicant will be self motivated with suit- Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and able experience and a sound knowledge of all turf experience. Closing date for applications is Friday maintenance practices. They should be an enthusiastic 30 March 2001. Interviews will be held during April. and hard working person, reliable and capable of working happily within a large team environment. Applicants are welcome to discuss the post with our Agronomist in Ireland, Dr Ian McClements Salary negotiable, commensurate with qualifications and Tel: 04892 689790 (from Rep of Ireland) experience. Subsidised accommodation may be available. Tel: 02892 689790 (from GB & N Ireland) Please apply in writing with full CV to: For further details please contact Mrs K Dixon at STRI St Ives Estate Bingley BD16 1AU Tel: 01274 518901 Fax: 01274 561891 email: [email protected] The Course Manager, The Wisley Golf Club, Church Farm, Wisley Lane, Wisley, Surrey GU23 6QL. A prestigious heathland course in Surrey Assistant Greenkeeper Applications should have minimum qualifications of NVQ Level 2: PA1 and PA2 would be an advantage. Two year's experience and knowledge of all modern Greenkeeping Require a practices is essential. The successful candidate will be enthusiastic, conscientious and able to work well with an established successful team. Excellent prospects as well as further training opportunities. Course Manager Please apply in writing enclosing your Curriculum Vitae to: Linlithgow Golf Club is situated on a north facing slope, overlooking the his- The Secretary, Hankley Common Golf Club, The Clubhouse, toric burgh of Linlithgow and we are seeking an ambitious Greenkeeper who Tilford, Farnham, Surrey GU10 2DD can continue the development of every aspect of the 5,800 yard golf course. The applicant must have at least five years experience as a Greenkeeper and be qualified to S/NVQ level II (HNC or S/NVQ III would be an advantage). A driving licence, tractor mounted spraying certificate and chainsaw HAGGS CASTLE GOLF CLUB proficiency certificate would be of additional value. Good communication skills are essential (with IT knowledge preferable), as is the ability to play golf. Honorary membership will form part of the Require a employment package. The Club has well established conservation management plan, which will form an integral part of any routine course management and knowledge of standard Qualified Greenkeeper conservation practises would be advantageous. Start date for employment will be May 7th, with the closing date for applica- tions being March 23rd. Applicants should have a minimum of 4-5 years experi- Please send your CV and a report on your course management philosophy to: ence and NVQ Level 2 or equivalent. Applications in writing with CV to: The General Manager, Linlithgow Golf Club, Braehead, Linlithgow, West Lothian, EH49 6QF. The Manager, Haggs Castle Golf Club, Starting salary circa £17,000 70 Dumbrett Road, Glasgow, G414SN I SEE IT... AS I . Feature listing Sb ir from March '99 O March '99; Loch Lomond, Worm update, GrassRoots, Softspikes, Maintenance facilities, Environment review, Architecture Why does it always rain on April '99; Carden Park, Telecommunications, Water Management, Rolawn, Seeds May '99¡ Security, Bude and North Cornwall GC, Spraying Regulations, Jim Arthur, The Acid Theory, Amenity Technology profile June '99; Thorpeness GC, Millennium Bug Busting, Irrigation, Scotts profile, Company adaptability July '99; Carnoustie, Golf Course Furniture, Spike Research, Toro profile, BIGGA Silent Auction August '99; Viscount Whitelaw tribute; Open review; Merrist Wood; Fridays^^^ Fnnnilv pnmiffh nnl?v 1a<:t vp; Funnily enough only last year I Saltex preview; Turf; Trees; Grass remember him saying at a Board Cutting; BIGGA Golf Day review; Redexim profile meeting that he wanted more work to do. Well, I think we'll have fixed September '99; Slaley Hall; Tyres; Spotlight on Thatch; Elmwood that for him over the next couple of College Awards; National years. Championship preview Our new Board member is David October '99; The Manor House, Walden, from Peterborough, who is Castle Combe; Aeration; Saltex very much a greenkeeper's green- review; Mycorrhizas; Toro Award keeper in every sense of the word. I preview know he has been a tireless worker November '99; Sir Michael for the Association at Section and Bonallack interview; The Pines GC; Oil; Bunkers; National Championship Regional level and, as a former review Greenkeeper of the Year, he will bring many skills to his role on the Board. December '99; Agronomy; Security; Environment Competition Winner; Part 2. Toro Award Winners The Texan welcome has been January 2000; Greens Construction; absolutely wonderful and everything Awkward Jobs; Sandy McDivot; possible has been done to make us Agronomy; Toro Award review reel at home... even to the extent February 2000; BTME2000 review; that it has rained every day. In one Committed to Green interview; Rookery night five inches of rain fell - would Park GC; Engines; Chairman's profile; you believe. Environmental Management Dallas is an awesome place in every March 2000; Cleobury Mortimer GC; way - I think that's thiee phrasph e you Course Furniture; R&A Conference Report; Cutting heights; Avoncrop pro- use in these parts and'ith ee GCSAA file; Valderrama report; Westurf preview Show, which this year celebrated its April 2000; Fortrose & Rosemarkie GC; 75th anniversary is an incredible j Utility Vehicles; Irrigation; Seed breeding; occasion. Gem Professional profile. Our presence at the Show has been May 2000; Ross-on-Wye GC; Top very much appreciated by everyone Dressing; Course Mapping; Compact on this side or the Atiantic ana our Tractors booth has been very busy. It is inter- June 2000; National Championship esting that the thing which attracts preview; Spraying; World Education most attention is our Master Conference review; Environmental Greenkeeper Scheme which is very Management; Mowers highly thought of by American July 2000; Open Championship Superintendents. Almost every con- Preview; Dougal Duguid Court Case Report; Pest Control; Aventis profile; versation we have had at some stage Course Conditioning I've only just started column writing whether we're able to play over the gets round to talking about Master Greenkeeper and it just proves what August 2000; Open Championship but already I'm making it complicat- weekend. review; Water Features; Saltex preview; ed for myself. This is a two parter. The As I said the weather problems an excellent programme it is for us. Charcoal; Malone GC; Royal County first, I'm writing at home before I head always happen on a Friday - fact. One of the highlights of the week for Down; Grand Tour Scholarship off for the GCSAA Conference and That said, the entire winter has been me was the keynote speech by General September 2000; Blowers and Show and then, when I get to Texas, a problem. The rain we've had over "Stormin"' Norman Schwarzkopf of Sweepers; Berkshire College Academy; Gulf War fame who talked about what National Championship roundup; Gordon I'll compile the second part. I didn't the last few months has been unbe- McKillop interview; Winter health checks think the life of a columnist would be lievable. At Walton Heath we've it took to be a great leader. already painted everything three Another of the memories I shall take October 2000; Toro Awards Preview; quite so complicated! Ronald Fream; Irrigation; Saltex Review; Why is it that bad weather always times. with me from Dallas was the sight of Pest Control; Woburn GC seems to happen on a Friday? I know Having thanked Elliott and Gordon Iain Ritchie and Eddie Adams using November 2000; Grass Cutting I'm not the only greenkeeper who feels last month I'd like now to take the the corridor of the hotel to test their Machinery; Clandeboye GC; Drainage; this is more fact than opinion. opportunity to introduce you to my new golf clubs. National Championship review; As I write it is Friday morning and Vice Chairman and the newest mem- Well that's it for this month. I'm off Leatherjacket management we've had just under two inches of rain ber of the Board of Management. to put the finishing touches to the December 2000; Toro Awards; in two days. That's been followed by Richard Barker is a man who will be paper I'm giving at the Canadian Making the most of your Dealer; Budget known to many of you already as he Conference and Show in Vancouver. Boosters; BTME2001 preview; BIGGA/ a sharp frost and as I sit here, we've Bernhards CGSA delegation preview got a sunny morning and members are is a regular attendee of most BIGGA arriving to play but the course is events at national, regional and sec- January 2001; Communication; Tyres; Turf diseases; Kingsbams Golf Links; closed. Understandably they can't tion level, while his face is regularly Environment Competition Winner - Dyke comprehend why they can't get a game seen in the magazine. Although he GC; Talking Heads - Pest Control when the weather appears so perfect looks, and is, a relatively young man February 2001; BTME2001 review; but the frost coming on top of all that still in his 30s he is in fact currentiy Winter Mowing; Irrigation; Broadstone rain means it's just not possible to the longest serving member of the Clive Osgood GC; Hedges; Security open the course. Now we've got an Board. I know he will be a big help to interesting decision to make about me and a huge asset to the Association. Nothing looks better than a course that's completely green. On a growing number of courses, the choice of colour in golf and turf equipment is John Deere green. Here's why: 2500 This new triplex greens mower has a quali- ty of cut that is second to none. Diesel models feature 13.4kW (18 hp) engines and John Deere cutting units. 220A This walk behind greens mower features an operator presence safety system, more power and a precision cut with 11 bladed reel. Aercore Aerators The first walk behind and tractor mounted aerators that deliver high productivity with- out sacrificing hole quality. 2653 Superior performance on undulating terrain with a precision cut, hydraulic reel drive and 66 cm (26 in) ESP cutting units. 1200A Excellent pulling and pushing power. Opens up a whole new era of bunker rake design. Many attachments available. RZI 700 Effective, efficient and environmen- tally friendly. This root zone injection system injects liquids directly to the root zone. 4000 Series Our new line of compact utility tractors have hitch lift capacities up 1,134 kg, high torque engines, excellent breakout force and 540 rpm PTOs. Turf Gator Utility Vehicle A unique combination of toughness and quietness makes this Gator perfect for the golf course. Foot pedal start works just like a golf cart. The best product support in the business and the best dealers are also green. Talk to us today. NOTHING RUNS LIKE A DEERE John Deere Ltd., Harby Road, Langar, Nottingham NG13 9HT, Telephone 01949 860491 RWF'ÏUÏU'J Pjtf M:P l'iu^y jjoiljjjjy b Dui: of l) DÌJÌJ l\ Similar to its smaller stablemate, the with slower rates of growth, this li y/jtv/yjvij^ Zzuijj orkhorse wi 5400-D's larger 32hp turbocharged engine gives greater pulling small reels is com petitively-priced ius jd âwulV 'ànrAs\ ower for more severe cutting conditions or steeper inclines, self-servicing prions include 2 and 4 wheel drive, cab and grass boxes. SSmi a Jar^ar and larger reel di reel diameter for higher productiveJ|ft/]y aaffi>-D ri ows ground perate fairway m< contours smoothly to give the fi sizze ur cute* Qytrn e 2 and d grass boxes. 4 wheel drive, cab and grass bo rers that can't growth rate, ljgiiypa| roductivity the Toro rair ig Just ciiil ^ÈljiJMjtSyDO^ /du ura bound %¡j a usm\ gliyifcy una, vy/jJâîEflj