An Abnormally Dry Winter

Although a significant rain event occurred in early February 2012, the positive effects of the much needed rain has diminished and again left us in the beginning stages of drought.  With temperatures for February higher than normal and constant tropical winds, the golf courses are drying out at a faster than normal rate.  The irrigation systems struggle to maintain adequate soil moisture conducive to growing quality turf grass suitable for golf.   Since November 1, 2011 only 5.56 inches of recorded rain has fallen across the area.  That is well below the 13.81 inches normally received.

 For example, the Fountains Country Club is currently permitted to use 25.2 million gallons of water for irrigation purposes on the golf courses for February 2012.  If the normal 2.55 inches of rainfall for the month of February occurs the permitted amount is generally adequate for irrigation.  Evan though, to this point in February, we have received 0.4 inches of rainfall more than normal, we began the year in a huge deficit and have been unable to gain any ground.  In addition all of the February rainfall occurred over the course of a few days early in the month.  As a result of these shortages, many localized dry areas have become visible on the golf courses, especially on the North and “Old West 9.”  These dry spots occur where irrigation coverage is inadequate and where soils are extremely sandy and have limited water retention.  To combat these dry spots, additional water and wetting agents are applied in efforts to combat turf decline.

To this point, the effects of the limited rainfall are only evident on the courses with the older irrigation system. However if these dry conditions continue, a repeat of the drought of 2011 could be inevitable and some turf loss may occur.

Shannon Wheeler

Director of Greens and Grounds

Fountains Country Club