The Muni Update
The Muni Update
Mar 2, 2025
Good Morning,
The warm weather has definitely been a welcome change from below zero days. Warmer weather does not mean it is time to start thinking about getting out on the course to play some golf. The frost level is still near the top of the soil profile. The frost level needs to be 10-12" below the surface to safely open the golf course and protect the turf. We need to have warmer nights and some rainfall in order to consider opening for the season. I know golfers are ready to start playing and we will get the driving range open first, followed by the golf course, when conditions are ready.
Golf course turf grass condition has definitely been a concern since there has been no snow cover this winter. Daily tours of the golf course, prior to Friday, showed dry conditions but the bentgrass greens were healthy. After the high winds, on Friday, the bentgrass greens have become a little "crispy." While rubbing my hand across the turf the dormant part of the grass leaf flakes off of the plant very easily. There is rain forecast for Tuesday and I really hope it is a measurable amount, otherwise it will be time to haul water to the greens.
I have been working on updates to our Quality Standards and Operations Manual. These updates have been completed and will be implemented at the start of the 2025 season. This manual is only a guideline to be followed to produce the highest quality golf course conditions in accordance with our annual budget. It is attached below:
I have also been working on creating a more in depth safety manual for the golf course staff. This manual will be completed next week and ready for review before it becomes implemented for the 2025 season.
Some other items on the agenda this past week include:
- cleaning and painting amenity items
- small equipment repairs
- removing small branches from the golf course
- updating irrigation software
Our golfing public has continued taking the time to look at our 2025 golf course survey. All of this information is being evaluated and we continue to look at positive changes we can make to better accommodate our players. Please take a look at the survey if you haven't already done so:
With current course conditions I would expect we are a couple more weeks away from golf course conditions becoming ready for the start of the golf season. I will continue to monitor conditions and keep everyone updated.
Please enjoy the remainder of the weekend. If you have questions or would like additional information on a topic please reach out to me.
Brian C Mohr
Director of Golf Operations
City of Spencer
101 W 5th Street
Spencer Municipal Golf Course
Spencer, Iowa 51301
712-260-5370