Click Here to Download Pictures from the Dredging of the #7 Pond and Reconstruction of the Red Tees
In April the Grounds Committee approved two major initiatives to change playing conditions at LCCC. The first initiative was to actively reduce watering of the fairways and fringe areas of the greens to improve roll and reduce plugged lies in the fairway. The second initiative was to no longer mow certain areas of the existing bluegrass rough around the golf course. This last decision was made to reduce maintenance costs in those areas, reduce environmental impact, improve the aesthetics of our golf course, and make our course demand more accuracy so that handicaps are more realistic.
The feedback generated from these decisions has, for the most part, been very positive. The fairway roll has dramatically improved and our golfers seem to appreciate the texture and definition that the new long grass areas have given to the overall look of the golf course. However, like all changes, these initiatives have introduced new challenges for our golfers.
There has been some concern from members that the green speed is not as fast as it could be. With the cool weather, high humidity and the frequent precipitation we have had, the greens are lush and the resistance provided by a lot of grass density does not let ball roll as fast. The greens are being cut seven days a week at .110” (the thickness of a dime is .122”). They can not be cut lower for a long period of time with out hurting the grass. Greens are also being rolled three times per week. Rolling firms the surface and also rolls the grass over so there is less resistance. Growth regulator is sprayed on the greens every two weeks to help control turf shoot growth so the greens do not grow a lot during the day and putt slower in the afternoon. This season we have applied very, very little fertilizer. A small amount was applied at aerification time to help speed recovery from aerification. In short, we are doing what we can, but there are limitations.
One advantage of a slower green speed is to expand the reasonable locations of cups on the greens. Many of our greens have developed more severe slopes due to topdressing. Several greens, such as #6 and #18, have only a few spots to locate the cup when green speeds are very fast.
Since the decision was made to enlarge the un-mown rough, the appearance of our golf course has changed significantly. The visual contrast between the mown vs. un-mown areas now gives a very clear definition between where golfers should aim and where they should otherwise avoid going. However, the areas of long grass are very challenging to deal with. Both finding and playing a ball from within these areas can be very difficult. And, as you might expect, the Golf Shop staff has been inundated with questions regarding the Rules of Golf procedures for a Lost Ball and/or a Ball Unplayable. Increasing the difficulty factors of any golf course never occurs without a certain period of adjustment among the golfers involved. For the most part, these areas are well away from the direct line of play. Most of the new areas are actually much farther away from greens or fairways than long grass areas that have existed since the course was constructed.
Going forward an effort will be made to adjust the non-maintained areas of rough, weighing issues of playability, pace of play, aesthetics, maintenance costs, etc. In an attempt to make these areas more payable in the long run, the Grounds Committee will be looking at the possibility of reducing the percentage of the bluegrass and increasing the percentage of the fine fescue grass in the long rough.
LCC golfers will be made aware of changes and updates to the golf course. We’ll strive to avoid confusion and reduce the possibility of incorrect information being relayed between our members
Finding the correct balance between challenging playing conditions, an enjoyable golfing experience for all members, and prudent, affordable maintenance practices is our top priority. Thanks for your support and positive feedback on this issue.
Jim Kjellenberg
Jack Tripp
Eric Wheeler
Join our email list
The Golf Course Superintendent periodically sends "Golf Course Conditions" e-mails to La Crosse Country Club members updating them on golf course condtions. Some of the e-mail topics include when the golf course is closed or open, when Club Car golf carts are not operating, aerification updates, when outside events are being held on the golf course, etc. If you are an LCC member and would like to be added to the "Golf Course Condtions" e-mail list please send your e-mail address to jack@lacrossecountryclub.com.
Would you like to volunteer at the course?
Click Here to Download the Current Volunteer Information
Weather Forecast
Today's Forecast
10 Day Forecast
La Crosse Country Club's Weather
LCC Weather Forecast
Link to an aerial veiw of the golf course property
Go to Virtual Earth "300 Marcou Rd. Onalaska WI" in the location box at the top of the page.You can zoom in and look at the golf course in map form, as an aerial photo or for a real close look click on bird's eye veiw.
