Course Update 2.12.26

 

It has been a beautiful week to work and play at DAC. However, we are now approaching three months since our last significant rain event. Fortunately, this time of year we do not feel the effects of an extended dry spell nearly as much as we would during the summer months. One area where it is noticeable, though, is in the way our bunkers are playing.

 

There are several factors that impact bunker performance, with sand depth and moisture content being two of the most significant contributors to firmness and consistency. Dry sand plays much softer than sand with adequate moisture. During summer dry spells, we irrigate most areas of the course nightly, which helps maintain some level of moisture in the bunkers. In the winter months, irrigation is greatly reduced, resulting in some bunkers remaining much drier — and therefore softer — than others. We are actively working to minimize this variability by checking sand depths, refining raking methods, and managing moisture where possible to improve overall consistency.

 

In other course news: The perimeter fence on holes 4 and 5 Blue has now been re-installed, and we plan to begin replanting grass in this area in the next two to three weeks. Our team also began improvements to the walk bridges on #10 Blue and #11 Gold, continued tree work, and completed multiple important spray applications. Heading into the weekend we will continue to keep two to four holes per course as “cart path only” to help protect the turf during dormancy — a practice we will maintain over the next several weeks. Other than a slight chance of rain Saturday evening, the forecast looks excellent for golf, and we look forward to seeing everyone at the club.