It is no secret that we are in desperate need of rainfall! Our 2023 YTD rainfall total through March 20th is 0.23". This compares to 1.53" in 2022, 1.57" in 2021, and 4.2" in 2020.
Our lake levels are the lowest they have been at this point in the year since 2018. Fortunately, the dry areas seen throughout the golf course are temporary blemishes that will soon recover once we begin to receive consistent rainfall. Our irrigation system is limited in its ability to provide sufficient water to supplement the lack of rain. We are hopeful for a wetter April to refill our lakes and balance out the turf aesthetics on the golf course. For the time being, the drier conditions will provide golfers with improved ball roll off the tee and approach shots to the green.
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| Beautiful sunrise on #16 as we water dry areas ahead of play. |
We are gearing up for our final major event of the season, the CMGA Invitational. The staff will be working extra hard over the next week in preparation for this event, in order to provide excellent conditions for our members and their guests.
Despite the dry weather, the golf course remains in excellent shape, and our putting greens have been performing exceptional this year. We are hopeful to provide a challenging, enjoyable test of golf for this event!
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| Our 2nd Assistant Superintendent, Luis Altuzar, Topdressing #13 Green in mid-March. |
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| Despite the dry weather, putting greens are performing excellent with healthy roots. |
Our two newest members of the Copperleaf family are rapidly growing in their nest located between holes #3 and #4. The oldest of the two hatched on February 20th. Ospreys typically take flight at 7-8 weeks, so keep a close eye over the next month as they continue to grow.
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| Our two young ospreys enjoying a snack in their nest. |
The final wildlife tour of the season will take place on Saturday, April 8th. Please be sure to sign up soon as these tours are extremely informational and fun!
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| Our Wildlife Tour Guide, Brian Beckner, captures a photo with the group inspecting wildlife on 3/18. |
This year, we are scheduled to complete the recertification process in order to remain a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. This important designation demonstrates our continued efforts towards environmental sustainability. During the recertification process, we are planning on constructing a butterfly garden to combat the decline of Monarchs and other key pollinators. We have identified an out-of-play area to the right of the bridge leading to #4 which we will utilize for the garden. Be on the lookout for several nectar-filled plants in this area to attract butterflies.
Lastly, we are finalizing plans for a very important summer of cultural practices and projects. Please see the 2023 Golf Course Closure schedule below.
As always, feel free to email any questions, comments or concerns to parkerf@copperleafgc.com.
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| #11 |
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| Sunrise over the Driving Range |
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