Aerification

Like so many things, the quality of a good putting green in more that skin deep. In fact, the condition of a green has a lot to do with what goes on below the surface. In order to keep grass growing at 3/16th-inch, you have to have deep, healthy roots. Good roots demand oxygen. In good soil, they get the oxygen from tiny pockets of air trapped between soil and sand particles. Over time, the traffic from golfers' feet (as well as heavy mowing equipment) tends to compact the soil which leads to the air pockets being crushed and the roots gasping for air. Aerification creates more air space in the soil and promotes deeper rooting, thus helping the grass plants stay healthy. Sand topdressing helps the soil retain air space and makes it easier for roots to grow downward. Aerification is merely a short-term disruption that has long-term benefits for the course and without those little holes, the greens would eventually die. The bottom line is that aerfication is a necessary practice. So on Monday, April 12th, the front nine will be closed and on Tuesday, April 13th, the back nine will be closed due to aerifying the greens. I appreciate everyone's understanding and patience thru these couple days.