As I have traveled around the state this month, a
common theme has persisted. Mother Nature has not cooperated with maintenance
practices in the “Sunshine State.” As a matter of fact, it seems that she has
gone out of her way to be rather troublesome.
From the southeast to southwest and central parts of the
state, superintendents have been working around rainfall and lightning as they
attempt to get midsummer work completed. I spoke with a few superintendents, and
one relayed that he had received 15 inches of rain over a seven-day period that coincided with his aerification program. Another superintendent indicated that
this has been the third wettest summer in his 15 years at his
facility.
What has really caught my attention isn’t the weather itself
but rather the way GCSAA members persevere through the hardships it has created.
I have yet to speak to an individual who has said that Mother Nature has gotten
the best of them. Everybody has come up with a plan B and C, and sometimes D, to
work around the inconveniences thrown at them. As one superintendent put it
when I asked how he was doing, “It’s July and I am a superintendent in Florida. I am making the best of it!” It seems like the individuals in this industry
truly shine when the deck is most stacked against them.
There may be some tired faces around the state, but nobody
has been defeated. It is because of this mentality that it is a pleasure to associate
with the men and women who hold the position of golf course superintendent. In
these times, it is also important to know that GCSAA is by your side with
resources to help you communicate the issues with which you are dealing. If I
can be of any assistance please do not hesitate to contact me!!
Ralph Dain
785.424.4306
No comments:
Post a Comment