A wild and windy start to the week with some serious damage to a number of trees on the course.
The willow on the left side of the buggy park was due for removal in early December as it was diseased. Unfortunately the wind had other ideas for the main central willow. Limbs were left hanging and we had no option but the removal of the crown of the tree.
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| A drastic haircut |
It is likely that the central willow will survive but only time will tell. I think some more planting will be needed to improve the view going up the 18th fairway.
On the course we had damage to willows on 1, 2, 16 and 17. Most have been cleared with the rest to be finished by early next week. The Priors has lost most of the Oak on the 1st green. Once this has been cleared I will inspect the tree for damage. There is early signs of rot in the centre of the Oak hence why it shattered in the middle but the decision as to the trees future may be decided by a professional arborist.
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| 150 years gone in 60 seconds |
On the course almost 100mm of rain is beginning to take it's toll. Buggy use will now be monitored on a daily basis, whilst rope and post is starting to go out.
Fairways that have received work in the Autumn have not filled in as well as expected and too many bare areas cover these. I think further feed and seed will be used whilst warm weather continues in an effort to fill in empty spots in the sward. However overall look on these fairways is much better with a clearly defined edge and different colour on the shorter grass against the thicker, lusher roughs.
As you will have seen of the 1st and 10th tees, the Electricity board have been in remove growth under the power lines. The 10th in particular will allow more light to that tee and it is a practice we will be expanding over the winter months to reclaim some of the overgrown areas by tees.
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| Much tidier |
