Wichita Weather

In spite of a few good rains over the last couple of months, we are still in an "extreme" drought situation for our area.  As temps cool, the water shortage for the short term is not as pressing, however, the long term deficit we have experienced over the last two years is bound to have an impact on our landscape.   With an additional 9" of precipitation needed to end the drought, we could be dealing with this for the foreseeable future.

According to NOAA, 2012 YTD is currently the 9th driest year (for Wichita) since 1895.  2011 over this same time period was the 12th driest year.  I'm not sure how the two years back to back would compare historically with other dry periods, but I would have to think these last two years would be near the top of the list for consecutive years of drought.

Overall things have held up as well as we could hope.  The impact related to the trees has been the biggest problem.  We have lost trees that would most likely still be here if it weren't for the added stress.  We also struggle with the turf under the trees competing for moisture.  The range of the tree roots is clearly evident based on the turf quality surrounding the trees.

Along those same lines we have seen an increase in the amount of Bermuda that we have in the rough.  With the heat and limiting water, the Bermuda has out competed our cool season grasses.  

Looking ahead, I'm not sure the long term forecast gets any better.  This winter is predicted to be warmer and drier than normal.  Last year, the forecast was predicted to be improved conditions over 2011, unfortunately it was worse.  If this is a repeat of the 30's and 50's, there may be a couple more years of drier than normal conditions.  Either way, we have to be prepared for what Mother Nature has in store for us.

Fall Projects

With our daily routine easing up, over the last few weeks we have been able to work more projects into our daily to-do list.   Working on the troublesome bunkers has been at the top of our list.  Throughout the season, several bunkers throughout the course were getting too hard in the bunker bottom.  Failing drainage and contaminated sand are the cause of the problem, however, until we rebuild we have to make the best of what we have.  I think you will see, the bunkers causing issues over the summer should be playing much better.  Bunkers around greens that have been addressed include:  4 left, 5 right, 7 right, 8, 9 left, 11 front, 12, 14, 15, and 17.

If you've been on the course lately, you have probably noticed the tree work that has been taking place.  The tree removal behind #7 is the most obvious change.  Five Elm trees were removed for improved sunlight and air movement across the green complex.  Not only have the trees caused issues for the green surface, growing turf underneath the trees was becoming a losing battle.  So far this change has been very well received.   In keeping with Tripp Davis' plan, we will continue to remove unnecessary trees throughout the course.  At the same time, we will be planting better suited hardwood trees.   The good news is the most drastic change occurred on #7.  Moving forward it is likely you will not notice the changes.

Looking ahead, other projects to follow include drainage work in low areas on a few fairways and irrigation additions in some key areas that are lacking coverage. 

Fall Conditions

Heading into the month of October, we are wrapping up a busy month of prepping the course for winter, as well as conditions for the 2013 golf season.    Although it's still six months away, the priorities we focus on today will pay dividends for the upcoming season.

Even with such a dry year, the rough is really bouncing back in strong form.  Add in our fall seeding along with timely fertilizer applications and the rough should be in great condition in the days ahead.

As usual for the fall, the greens are almost perfect.  Although the fall aerification took longer to heal than we had anticipated, the aggressive nature of this practice was just what they needed coming out of another tough summer.  Compliments to our staff for a great year on greens.  Dragging hoses everyday from June to early September can wear down anyone.  The crew maintained a great attitude and were committed to the plans we have in place to ensure the health of the greens.

One benefit of the hot dry weather has been with the condition of the fairways.  The Zoysia has thrived the last couple of years with the mild winters and hot summers.  This is clearly the best turf for our fairways, given our heavy clay soils and extreme weather conditions.  As the Zoysia goes dormant, we ask that you limit cart traffic on the fairways when possible.

Over the last few days, we have started working on the more troublesome bunkers, specifically around greens.  Hopefully, you will see more consistency in the bunkers that had a tendency to get too hard in the bottoms.

Looking ahead, as usual, tree work will move to the top of our priority list.  Raising and thinning canopies, along with select removals, are all geared toward better turf conditions for the upcoming season.

Until then, we hope to see you this fall on the course.