September 07, 2012 -- Volume 50, Number 19              

A significant amount of time and resources is spent on managing the sand particles that remain on the putting surface after topdressing is incorporated.

Superintendents welcome techniques that improve the efficiency of operations on the golf course. The incorporation of topdressing sand into a turfgrass canopy is one of those practices where a gain in efficiency is beneficial. Significant time and other resources can be spent on managing the sand particles left on the putting surface after most of the topdressing is incorporated. These remnant particles are typically large (fine gravel, very coarse, or coarse particles, depending on the quality of the sand) and interfere with mowing and potentially play, if not removed. Blowers can be used to remove these particles, but at the cost of more labor and fuel. Daily mowing eventually removes these large particles, but at the cost of increased mower maintenance through more frequent sharpening and replacement of bedknives and reels.  

The incorporation of topdressing sand is more difficult on turf maintained at lower mowing heights and with plant growth regulation that increases shoot density, calculated as the number of turfgrass shoots per square inch. Additionally, newer cultivars developed for putting greens have much greater shoot density compared to older cultivars. Topdressing sand increases the firmness of a putting green surface due to the "bridging" of sand particles within the turf canopy and layer of mat or thatch. However, the bridging among sand particles and with plant material also contributes to the difficulty of incorporating sand. 

In recent years many have written that the game of golf is too difficult, and that this is a primary obstacle against increasing golfer participation. I have the opposite opinion. In fact, I believe learning to play golf is easier than ever due in large part to the many advances in equipment technology and accessibility to so many golf courses today. What I believe is hurting the game the most is that it seems many of us have lost sight of the goal of having fun when we play. Fun is, and should continue to be, the main reason the majority of us visit golf courses in the first place. Looking back to when we first learned to play the game, we were not concerned about perfect ball lies, consistent green speeds, or manicured bunkers. The intrigue and enjoyment of the game stemmed from being on the course and trying our best to get the ball from tee to green and eventually into the hole. Even more fun was to be had when there was friendly competition with other players.  

What if a golf genie were to grant us three wishes to improve the game? What would your wishes be? This is my chance to share mine.

Read the rest of this article

The USGA Green Section agronomists see an amazing variety of issues and challenges as they visit golf courses across the country. Be sure to read the highlights of each region since many of the topics covered apply to courses everywhere.

Mid-Atlantic Region

Environmental initiatives including BMP's for Florida golf courses and Rounds 4 Research. 

Sign up for the Green Section Record

Thanks for your help!

Important Links