Golf course greens suffering from elements

Bella Vista POA is battling the elements this summer to keep its greens intact.

The unseasonably heavy rainfall that northwest Arkansas experienced during the spring and early summer months, followed by prolonged periods of soaring temperatures and high humidity have left both greens and golf course superintendents stressed, according to a news release from the POA.

Making the job more difficult for golf course superintendents, Mother Nature provides challenges to turfgrass maintenance other than the weather, like pests and fungus.

In order to keep the bugs at bay, the fungus far away, and the greens healthy, golf maintenance applies a variety of routine products in various tank mixes, the release stated. Despite careful product selection and mixing, the application may have done little to help the already stressed greens.

In fact, the procedure may have negatively compounded the condition of the greens, it said. It appears the damage on the Country Club greens increased after treatment later in the day of application. The turf's response is most likely due to the increased temperatures in addition to the products' application.

University of Arkansas Professor of Horticulture Dr. Mike Richardson will be consulting with Golf Course Maintenance Director Keith Ihms, on the best course of action in order to correct and maintain the long term health of the greens.

In addition, the United States Golf Association will meet with Ihms and golf course superintendents next week to discuss golf maintenance issues affecting the courses.

Of all golf courses in the village, the Country Club has been affected the most. Groups and tournaments may be moved from regularly scheduled play on courses as necessary to accommodate making corrective measures.

For more information, call 479-855-5048 or email [email protected].

Sports on 08/12/2015