DryJect on Chipping Green

Bin and Hoses to fill holes

 Final Closing of the Summer Season

On September 9th we began the process of our final greens aerification for our annual summer maintenance.  The step by step program began with double verti-cutting, removing the access thatch, an application of organic slow release fertilizer, topdressing and finally the core aerification.  The 3/8 inch tines used during this week are barely noticeable.  I want to thank Jeff Ratthe, our Golf Course Superintendent, for completing this process during a very wet Tuesday and Wednesday.  I felt very comfortable taking two days to enjoy the golf course at Black Diamond Ranch with our Pro Shop Staff and 18 of our members.  I am sure the stories from that trip will last until next year's trip.  

Following the standard aerification a series of rolling and brushing took place to ensure the surface was consistent for the DryJect application.  This contracted service takes dry sand and soil amendments and injects them into the soil profile.  A high powered water jet opens a hole in the turf and creates a vacuum type suction that pulls the material into the hole.  The pictures included show the machine in operation and the results of the injection.  The bin is hand filled with bagged material and the hose is hooked to our irrigation supply.  Close to 20 tons of dry material was injected into our putting surfaces.  I am excited about the long term benefits of this operation and the overall health of our putting surfaces.  

I have had a lot of questions regarding the status of #15 and #17.  We are on the right track and the soil abnormalities are beginning to show signs of improvement.  Our goal is to always provide a course that is playable, presentable and pleasurable.  With that in mind we will do everything in our power to make this season the best on record.   

Cross section of DryJect

2 days following DryJect