Doing what we can do...

We received a near record 9.40" of precipitation (as both rain and snow) in November--just a tad over the average of 3.50".  Additionally, the daily temperatures for the month averaged 3.8 degrees below normal.  To summarize:  It was cold and wet!

This wonderful weather combination certainly limited rounds, as well as what we could do on the golf course.  Fortunately, one of the few large pieces of equipment we can safely use under almost any conditions is our largest tractor, with a deep tine aerifier connected to it.  The flotation type tires on this tractor are the key to its having a very light footprint, even when the course is soaked.

The aerifier itself uses solid tines, which cause minimal disruption to the surface.  This solid tining can improve the soupy conditions in a couple of ways.  Below the ground, it loosens the soil by fracturing it, allowing for better infiltration of water.  Additionally, the holes can help to increase water loss through evaporation.

To look at the positive side of this weather,  with high temperatures in the 40's, and winds of 50 mph, Scott didn't have to worry about interfering with play while solid-tining #1 fairway.