Mid-Summer 2015

Welcome to the mid-summer edition of Ken's Golf Course Blog!

In the next couple weeks, look for a sewer construction project to take place along the Upper Practice Green, and more PG&E gas pipeline work/inspections along Junipero Serra Blvd.

We've been very busy in Golf Maintenance with everything from drought issues to Siebel Varsity Golf Training Complex construction.  Below is a video and a few photos of what's been happening.

The Golden Eagles are back!

I caught a glimpse of this golden eagle enjoying his dinner near the corner of #7.....

Unfortunately Pine Bark Beetles are also back.....

We lost this Monterey Pine behind #12 green, and also one to the left of #15 fairway.  The drought has undoubtedly added stress to the trees, reducing sap flows, allowing the beetles free reign when burrowing under the bark.

Drought and Water Reductions have impacted the turf.....

When will the drought end?  The answer is completely uncertain at this point, despite forecasts of an El Nino pattern this winter.  Our concerns are if we be able to start repairs of the damaged areas before the cold of winter.  If not, turf recovery and seedling establishment will be very slow.  

Siebel Varsity Golf Training Complex - Version 2.0.....

Construction is going full steam at the new complex.  We've hired two new employees, Assistant Superintendent Dan James and Greenskeeper Ignacio Gonzales.  Dan comes to Siebel most recently from Peninsula G&CC, and Ignacio from Burlingame CC.

Four new greens are being constructed, eight new bunkers, four new teeing areas, and a large split fairway, as well as a new Varsity Clubhouse and Hitting Bay building.  The entire complex is being drained and sand capped with eight inches of USGA sand.  Below are some photos of the construction and grow-in currently underway....

SVGTC fairway looking North

Early mowing on a newly seeded green

Revetted wall pot bunker

Hitting Bay Building Under Construction

Varsity Clubhouse Under Construction