2014 started off with the course in turmoil after the sea came over the dunes on several occasions, leaving debris strewn all over the course and the coastal defences in tatters. It soon became apparent there was to be no official help available to deal with the consequences of the storm damage,\u00a0so the club relied on the good nature of local businesses and members and we were able to restore the dunes and rebuild the defences with the spoil that had been originally washed out. This work still continues with planting programs planned together with the construction of fenced wind breaks. We have also had an application for a grant approved, so work can go ahead immediately to further strengthen the flood defences before the next series of high tides.<\/p>\n
The course continues to improve, the greens especially are becoming more resilient and durable and regularly give very firm and true surfaces upon which to play. The investment in new equipment has made this largely possible, as has the approach of minimising the use of inorganic fertilisers and pesticides. It is also no coincidence that reducing the amount of water applied to the putting surfaces has resulted in extending the length of time they are in good condition \u2013 it is my ambition to shorten \u201cwinter golf” to as small a window as possible each year.<\/p>\n
We have recently completed a good deal of refurbishment work on our tees and this program continues now with planned applications of natural products to help ensure we have much better tees in the future.<\/p>\n
Extensive raking and brushing of the fairways again is paying dividends and the years of previous neglect are now well behind us.<\/p>\n
We have a new fairway mower coming to us before the 2015 season starts and\u00a0this can only help the further improvement to course presentation.<\/p>\n
Dave Shepherd has been my main help this year and has played a major part in achieving the goals I set out when I started here back in 2012.<\/p>\n
Some of the work has taken longer than I anticipated due to ill health. With all those problems now behind me, I see 2015 as a great opportunity to fulfil our objectives, and to make Dunnerholme “The Course to Play” in the County.<\/p>\n
Alan Sharp
\nHead Greenkeeper<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
2014 started off with the course in turmoil after the sea came over the dunes on several occasions, leaving debris strewn all over the course and the coastal defences in tatters. It soon became apparent there was to be no … Continue reading