Verticutting of Fairways Moving Right Along

We should have all the fairway verticutting done by tomorrow and then we start topdressing tomorrow as well.  We got all 30 acres done in 3 1/4 days.  This is beneficial in removing thatch and stimulating bentgrass growth and giving a better playing surface.

Rest in Peace Robbie

Robbie watching over Newman his new friend.  Newman now has big shoes to fill to keep the golf course geese free.

Robbie Our Faithful Employee and Family Member is Ailing

It breaks my heart to know that Robbie, Arcola's faithful goose dog and an important member of my family was diagnosed with terminal cancer this past weekend.  Robbie was here for 5 years before I arrived and he spent those years living in the shop alone.  We immediately brought Robbie into our home and made him a part of our family and he has been the most loving and faithful dog, plus he has been committed to keeping Arcola geese free under his watch.  It turns out that only a month or so ago, I decided to get a new puppy (Newman) who can learn from Robbie and then we can slowly let Robbie retire in a few years, but sadly it looks like his days are numbered.  Now, we want to make Robbies remaining time here as happy and as comfortable as possible.  You may see us riding him around in a cart because he has trouble walking and getting his balance but still, he enjoys being out on the course and he is still very alert and sees animals he wants to chase but his body will not allow him to.  The sad thing is this came about in a matter of 2-3 days and a week ago, he was running around with me all day.  I will report the sad news when it arrives but for now I hope everyone appreciates all the hard work he has done for Arcola and all the love he has brought to our home.   Newman has big shoes to fill.

Root Pruning Throughout the Course

With the dry weather of late, we are seeing where tree roots are affecting turf health, so we have spent the past day going around the course cutting roots.  The tree roots out compete turf roots for nutrients and water leading to wilted areas like you see in the picture above.