Course Update

While I realize that with the recent warmer weather conditions there are probably many people who have the itch to get out and play golf.  However, the Stillmeadow Turf and Maintenance Staff has to consider all variables before allowing play to return the golf course.  The following are just a few of those variables:

• Excess water from snow melt and predicted rain in the forecast
• Player safety
• Below freezing overnight conditions causing slick, iced cart paths
• Frozen ground conditions causing a lack of subsurface drainage everywhere
• Frozen ground conditions plus surface water causing sloppy conditions everywhere including greens
• Frozen ground conditions causing sheared turf roots with the combination of minor thaw, water and any kind of traffic
• Cups (what condition are they in??? Will they have to be changed??? Haven't been able to see them in over a month...Can't change them with frozen ground conditions.)
• Freshly seeded areas in the fall (We definitely don't want traffic on these areas along with sloppy conditions)

Now as you can see this is just a small amount of what we have to judge when making the decision on rather to allow play on the course on any given day during the winter months.  That being said, here is a photo of the course that was taken on Wednesday morning.

I realize that with warm rain on the way, much if not all of this snow could dissipate.  However, then we are left with swampy, muddy and dangerous conditions.

It is for all of the previously mentioned reasons that we plan to remain closed for the rest of this week but will continue to monitor the course on a daily basis.  Please check back on this blog for updates or changes.  If we can get you out to play, we will.

Thanks for your patience,
Klint Ladd
Golf Course Superintendent