Drainage Project on 14th Green

The few members that braved the colder temperatures this week had to deal with a temporary green on the 14th hole.  The green itself is in the process of having drainage lines installed.  The installation of these tiles will be a benefit in regards to playability and maintenance. 

The right side of the green has a slight depression that collects water after most rain events, making cup placement around the area difficult.  Members may have noticed that the approach to the green also collects water, making the area unplayable.  With the completion of these drainage tiles, members will enjoy a better playing surface after rain events.  The staff will appreciate the construction as well.  Standing water makes maintenance practices impossible, not to mention that disease pressure skyrockets during the summer months when an area of turf is completely saturated for extended periods of time.

The diagram above shows the general design and layout of the tiles.  Installation of a tile requires hard work and steady hands.  The sod is removed, the trench cut with a Ditch Witch and the spoils have to be hauled off-site.  Than the tile itself (2"drainage pipe) has to be laid and the trench back-filled with a special blend of soils.  The mix consists of 60% sand (for infiltration and firmness), 20% peat and 20% soil (for its water and nutrient holding capacity).  The mix has to be tamped down to ensure that the tile lines do not settle beneath the existing green surface.  Finally, using a masons trowel to smooth and level the soil at the top of the trench,the sod is replaced and tamped extensively to ensure a true putting surface. 

Over 1200 linear feet of tile will eventually be laid, requiring over 30 tons of mix to re-fill the trenches.  Any construction on a green requires a knowledgeable and attentive crew, so hat's off to the members of the staff participating in the project.  As always, we appreciate the members patience and we hope to have the green open soon.  Enjoy. 

Slide show of 14th Green Drainage Project