Tree Removal Update

The removal of dead and hazardous trees continues, despite the relentless winter weather.  My biggest complaint is the increasing snow depth.  Certain areas on the course are inaccessible due to snow drifts and cart paths that are iced over under a thick layer of snow.  We've managed to get around without much damage, but staff safety is always the top priority and we will never do anything to jeopardize that.  Considering the challenges we've faced, the attitude and perseverance of the staff has been awesome!  Our goal of being finished with tree removals by the end of February looks more certain every day.

The area we're currently focused on is between 10 green and 11 tees.  Most of the trees in this area are ash that have been killed by the Emerald Ash Borer and are covered with poison ivy vines, which makes removal that much harder.  Even though it's winter the sap that causes irritation will leak out of cut vines and is just as potent as it is in the summer.  Below are some pictures from this area, along with a few others you may not have seen.

Having the right tools allows us to chip an entire tree

Left of 10 green (before).  Notice all the brush and vines

Clearing underway on 10 looking towards 11 green

A cherry tree with obvious structural damage removed for safety reasons

A maple tree also removed for safety reasons

Dying or dead upper branches indicate a problem