Golf Course News - 4/1/2008
Finally!! I was beginning to wonder if the snow was ever going to melt. What a long Winter it was in Iowa this year. That being said, here we are approaching the start of another golf season. With a little nice weather we should be open by the first weekend in April. As I mentioned in several past newsletters, I had some concerns about the health of the turf sitting under the ice and snow. I am happy to say that the course looks alive and well considering how long and cold the Winter was.
The other news around Fort Dodge Country Club is that I am leaving my position as Golf Course Superintendent. My family and I have thoroughly enjoyed our time in Fort Dodge. I think that Fort Dodge Country Club is a very special place and we will miss the opportunity that we had to be a part of this great facility. I am moving on to accept a position at a brand new golf course in Albert Lea, MN. I will be directing the construction and grow-in of the Wedgewood Cove Golf Club. After the course opens in the Spring of 2009 I will assume the additional responsibilities of the Golf Professional at Wedgewood Cove.
In the meantime, I want to use the newsletter again this year to remind our members of how important their actions on the golf course are to keeping the course in great shape. Cart traffic is a big issue throughout the year. However, it is the first couple of months that do the most damage. The ground is soft in the Spring and the turf is not healing itself as fast as it does later in the year. In order to minimize traffic damage, here are a few suggestions:
- Where we have cart paths – use them.
- Try to limit the number of carts in a group.
- Stay out of areas that look wet or stressed.
- Keep golf carts away from the greens. Individual member cooperation will lead to a better golf course for all members to enjoy.
I will be here until the end of April. I hope to see a lot of people enjoying the golf course in the next few weeks.
-Donnie Teeter
