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SUPERINTENDENT'S MONTHLY NEWSLETTER.
Golf Course Report - May 2011
Naturalization of golf courses is becoming the new trend and this is not something new for Thornhill Golf and Country Club. We have been gradually increasing naturalized areas for many years. The ministry of Environment and the T.R.C.A. require all riverbanks to have a buffer zone of 30 feet. Years ago the Don River running through the course was mowed to the waters edge. In recent year we have created a buffer zone along the whole length of the river. Where possible we have been able to do better than the 30 feet required, however because of the tight playing conditions in some areas we are well short of the 30 feet. To show the general public that we are doing as much as we can to be environmentally conscious more native plant material will be planted in areas out of play along the river.
The pond surrounds will also be planted with native material to create a more natural look to the pond. Branches and logs will be placed in the pond to provide habitat for fish and other wildlife. We will be looking at introducing fish to the pond in the near future. Turtles, frogs and toads should also return this year. Helping us with this is Mandy Karch. Mandy is a zoologist from the metro zoo who specializes in reptiles. She has provided us with her expertise in reptile habitat. Victor has already re-introduced the aquatic plant material that we saved from the old pond.
The new nursery slopes will also be planted with native and other plant material to create more naturalized areas.
There are many reasons for wanting to expand the natural areas. Operating cost savings because of the reduced mowing, watering, fertilizers and chemical inputs. Public perception of golf courses will be improved. Enhanced member enjoyment, through seeing more wildlife on the course is another positive.
As we move forward with these plans, playability of the course should not be impacted as most of these areas discussed are out of play.
I hope that everyone is enjoying the start to the golf season.
Best regards, Greg McFarlane, Golf Superintendent.
Golf Course Report - May 2011
Naturalization of golf courses is becoming the new trend and this is not something new for Thornhill Golf and Country Club. We have been gradually increasing naturalized areas for many years. The ministry of Environment and the T.R.C.A. require all riverbanks to have a buffer zone of 30 feet. Years ago the Don River running through the course was mowed to the waters edge. In recent year we have created a buffer zone along the whole length of the river. Where possible we have been able to do better than the 30 feet required, however because of the tight playing conditions in some areas we are well short of the 30 feet. To show the general public that we are doing as much as we can to be environmentally conscious more native plant material will be planted in areas out of play along the river.
The pond surrounds will also be planted with native material to create a more natural look to the pond. Branches and logs will be placed in the pond to provide habitat for fish and other wildlife. We will be looking at introducing fish to the pond in the near future. Turtles, frogs and toads should also return this year. Helping us with this is Mandy Karch. Mandy is a zoologist from the metro zoo who specializes in reptiles. She has provided us with her expertise in reptile habitat. Victor has already re-introduced the aquatic plant material that we saved from the old pond.
The new nursery slopes will also be planted with native and other plant material to create more naturalized areas.
There are many reasons for wanting to expand the natural areas. Operating cost savings because of the reduced mowing, watering, fertilizers and chemical inputs. Public perception of golf courses will be improved. Enhanced member enjoyment, through seeing more wildlife on the course is another positive.
As we move forward with these plans, playability of the course should not be impacted as most of these areas discussed are out of play.
I hope that everyone is enjoying the start to the golf season.
Best regards, Greg McFarlane, Golf Superintendent.