Greens aeration is complete for the season.  The North course is close to 100% healing in, but we may not see total recovery with these night-time temperatures before the end of the season.  We will definitely not see 100% recovery on the South course, but that will be okay entering the winter season.  We have seen good results with leaving aeration holes open through the winter.  Now that greens aeration is complete, we are looking to finish up some projects and ready the course for winter. 

Our tree project on 12 and 13 North is about 50% complete.  This project will help open up light and air channels for the green and green surround.  As well as tree work, we are also in the process of making a few greens larger in size.  Greens 3/14, 8, and 11 North are all being cut back to their original size.  These should be playable sometime next season. 

We have seen mediocre seed germination from our slice-seeding in fairways and have decided to wait until the spring to slice more seed into the surface.  However, our seed germination on tee boxes was very successful.  Before the last sprays are done, we are busy blowing, raking, and cleaning the leaves throughout the course each day.  Before long, snow will be on the ground. 

If you have any questions about preparing your own lawn for winter, feel free to email me at jvanbuskirk@stowacres.com.  See you on the course!

-Jason VanBuskirk, Superintendent