UPDATE ON THE LAKES PRACTICE GREEN

As in previous summers, the Main Lakes Practice Green will be temporarily closed for a few weeks to encourage healthy transition and recovery through targeted nutrient applications and additional needle-tine aerification treatments. During this time, members and guests may continue utilizing the raised chipping green for short-game and putting practice. This update provides background on the recurring issue, expert analysis, and the current status as we continue working toward improved long-term conditions.

BACKGROUND
The Lakes Practice Green was rebuilt and enlarged in 2020 in an effort to address recurring summer decline issues that were originally believed to be caused primarily by excessive usage and limited putting space. While the renovation significantly improved winter performance and increased overall putting surface area, the same seasonal decline continues to occur each summer during the transition from winter grass to the underlying bermudagrass base.

EXPERT ANALYSIS

Agronomist Brian Whitlock (USGA) and golf course architect Gary Brawley identified two primary factors contributing to these ongoing issues:

• Excessive shade from surrounding trees, which limits the bermudagrass’s ability to thrive during the summer months
• Poor air circulation caused by the proximity of the clubhouse and surrounding structures, which traps moisture and promotes surface algae development