Dear Members, Guests and Residents,
We want to inform you that next week, a drone will be operating on the golf course to assist with mapping the Kikuyu grass on the fairways, rough, and tees. This is part of an ongoing effort to manage the Kikuyu more effectively.
To complete this task, we must close 9 holes at a time. The mapping process will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours per 9 holes and occur between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on Monday, November 25th. During this period, no golfers will be permitted on the 9 holes that are closed, in compliance with CASA (Civil Aviation Safety Authority) regulations for drone operations.
As part of this operation, we will also apply Steer 750 (Quinclorac) herbicide to help suppress and control the Kikuyu. This will assist in making the Kikuyu more evident when mapped by the drone. Please note that while the Couch grass may experience some temporary yellowing or leaf burn from the herbicide, this will be minor and should not affect the long-term health of the turf, which will recover fully over time.
Couch grass control has recommenced with the spring herbicide application on the greens. This is part of our ongoing effort to reduce the effects of Couch grass in the Bentgrass greens.
Please be aware that during these applications, there may be some bleaching effects on the Bentgrass. However, this is temporary, and the greens will recover over time. As the Couch grass begins to be removed, the affected areas may become a little bumpier, but this will improve as the process continues.
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding as we carry out this important work to improve the course. Don’t hesitate to contact the course management team with any questions or concerns.
Regards, Dean Lewis Golf Course Superintendent