Golf Course News - 1/31/2008
The start of February means that we are one month closer to the start of another golf season at Fort Dodge Country Club. Of course, it is impossible to determine when Mother Nature will allow us to open the golf course again. I am always hoping for an early Spring. However, we
haven’t had any signs of that so far. In fact, we haven’t been able to see our turf since December 1st.
I am normally comforted by a nice blanket of snow covering the golf course. A thick layer of snow acts as insulation for the grass. It protects the turf from the arctic drops in temperature and the bitter winds of Winter. This year’s weather has not been comforting. In fact, it has caused a
little stress for me.
The potential problem is the ice layer under our snow cover. The December 1st storm system that brought our initial snow was followed by freezing rain. This layer of ice can cause Winter damage by suffocating the turf. The physical properties of ice do not allow for the gas exchange
that is necessary for most living things, including grasses. The longer the turf is covered by an ice layer, the more likely damage will occur.
The research professionals at Iowa State University are saying that our ice layer is somewhat permeable and we should be alright. They are not recommending any drastic action at this time.
If the snow/ice cap is still present in mid to late February we may try to help the melting process
along. Next month I will give an update on the condition of the course going into March. Until then, think warm thoughts.
-Donnie Teeter
