Fairway Aerification

Core aerification of fairways has been on hold since late October and will not be completed this year.  The combination of a shallow root system, equipment issues, and the amount of time required to complete the process has forced us to look at alternative methods to relieve compaction while removing excessive organic matter.  A two-step process is being explored that first uses a deep slicing machine to fracture compacted soil, thereby creating channels for improved root growth.  The second step is to verticut, or vertically mow, the fairways using a machine with spinning knives that cuts out the spongy thatch layer (a.k.a. Organic Matter) and collects it all in one pass.  Using these two machines will result in greater turf quality with minimal damage.  Our plan is to start this new process in early Spring unless we experience another mild winter, then it could start sooner.