| Leading Thoughts ... with Tom Marzolf, ASGCA |
Tom Marzolf, ASGCA
Any homeowner knows the international economic woes of recent years have placed premiums on basic property upkeep. Paint jobs, siding, landscaping and basic maintenance have all taken a backseat. The same can happen at golf courses. But everything has a lifespan, from the greens and bunkers to irrigation systems and drainage. It is prudent to plan for maintenance and upkeep in advance to avoid more immediate and expensive replacements in the future. Golf courses evolve, in a sense live and breathe, so club leaders are wise to consider the ‘life cycle’ of their golf course’s components. Several years ago ASGCA, along with input from the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America—created a Life Cycle chart for golf courses to use as a guide in scheduling replacements to key course elements. The guide included input from other allied golf associations, as well. In the next issue of By Design, you will read about an updated Life Cycle chart, helping courses as they move into 2012 and beyond. The Life Cycle Planning Process Life cycle planning allows for a club to anticipate and schedule maintenance and renovation based on likely replacement dates for each part of the golf course. Having a plan in place allows for budgeting of time and money, and keeps those enjoying the facility “in the loop” during the process. Once the facility has been analyzed, a life cycle plan details how and when recommendations will be implemented. These details include: prioritization of goals and objectives, club member and staff communication strategies, advice on bidding and supervision of maintenance and/or construction, and follow-through on grow-in and any other new programming. Course Evaluation Tees: Tees are a prime target for improvement. Depending on the age of the course and the ability of the players, tees may need to be rebuilt or added. In northern climates, the freeze thaw cycle will make tees uneven. The practice tee will wear out first. Fairways: Fairway improvement may include drainage projects, mowing line adjustments and regrading fairways for improvements to golf shot options/strategy. Major grade work may also be required to improve drainage, eliminate blind spots or to soften severe terrain. If tee boxes need to be added, fairway widths may need to be adjusted. Bunkers: Bunker evaluation can include review of placement, strategy, playability, the quality of sand and drainage, and also methods to minimize labor and expenses. Reducing the number of bunkers can save money and make the game more enjoyable. Irrigation System: This part of the course make-up will be closely scrutinized. Technology in the irrigation industry is constantly improving the efficiency and efficacy of systems, and the importance of responsible water use can’t be overstated. Electricity costs can be reduced with proper pump design. Greens: The size, shape and cupping areas of each green will be evaluated. The age of the greens and the soil structure will be examined. The green is the target for the game and should receive the most attention. Landscape Treatment: A long-range tree planting, pruning and removal schedule will be created. Proper tree placement results in more strategic shots, healthier turf and more pleasing aesthetics. Too many trees, in the wrong spots, can reduce turf quality and reduce potential profits. An ASGCA member has the skill set to lead a life cycle planning team. They have the expertise to conduct each of these steps to research and implement a life cycle plan with the help of these other important team members: course owners, club manager, golf course superintendent, golf professional, and club members/leaders. Tom Marzolf |