Tree Removals and Tee Renovation

Several changes are taking shape around #12 tee and #15 green.  Over the winter we removed two large Siberian Elms next to #12 tee.  These trees were causing shade issues on the teeing surface, along with root encroachment into the tee.  Now that the trees are out of the way we have started a minor project that includes widening the tee as well as adding 10 yards on the back and a few yards on the front.  This will give us more options on a tee that was previously limited in usable space.

New retaining wall on backside of #12 tee.

 On the #15 Green side of #12 tee we also were having issues with Siberian Elms.   The two Elms we removed both had significant decay leading to safety concerns, as well as root encroachment into the green bank.  Even without the decay, for the size of these trees, they were planted too close to the green.

Obvious decay in tree trunk.

Issues with turf from root competition.

Overall we removed (5) trees in this area.  We are in the process of planting (3) new trees close to this same area.  The current plan is to plant two Shumard Oaks and a Crabapple tree for spring color.  Better trees in the right location.

Taking down trees next to #15 Green.

Tree removal will benefit the green and surrounding turf.

Not far from this same location we have a Maple in decline as well.  We are going to monitor this tree as it breaks dormancy.  If we can dead wood the tree and still leave a decent amount of live tree, we will.  At this point, I  have my doubts on the possibility of saving the tree.

Decay on one of the main leaders.

Decline throughout the tree.

Removing old trees is never our intention, unfortunately, trees get planted in the wrong places that lead to problems as the tree ages.  Likewise,  we are to the point of trees that were planted 60 years ago, such as the maples and elms, reaching the end of their natural life span.  We will continue to plant replacement trees as needed, but we are also interested in opening up views across the course.  Maybe most important of all are the water requirements for trees throughout the property.  As water rates continue to increase, we are more aware of the expense of maintaining unnecessary trees.

 

More Sad News....

Once again, sad news to report on the blog.  This morning we found Sterling, the club's Border Collie for the last seven years, dead in his kennel.

This really came as a shock to those of us who took care of him.  He seemed to be a little slower than normal yesterday, but nothing that would make us believe his health was rapidly declining. 

Sterling was very dedicated to chasing the geese (or squirrels) off the course.  He was fun to watch in action, but most of all he was a good friend to everyone that wanted to pet him.

I know so many of you enjoyed seeing him.  He was a good dog that will be missed.

Hanging out in a cart last summer.