Spring is here once again and it’s time for all Turf managers to get at their property and get ready with clean-ups, etc. Most of the golf course people I’ve talked to in the last few days are happy with the way their course wintered.

The 2009 Saskatchewan Turfgrass Conference and Trade Show is now history. All in all it was a good show with an excellent turnout in spite of treacherous driving conditions throughout the province. All areas of the province were well represented. By all accounts the educational component was well received and by the number of superintendents I heard discussing the speaker presentations, I believe there was something each took away from the conference.

Back from Florida into cold weather again. It wasn’t that warm in Florida, but did get warmer as time went on. A bigger issue was the economy – strip malls were closed, houses for sale or rent, crime way up and there sure wasn’t as many people there enjoying warmer weather.

I’m sick of the cold weather. I’m sick of shoveling snow from my driveway and I’m really sick of driving on Saskatoon’s snow and ice covered roads. I’m so sick, I’m going to Florida! By the time you get this I’ll be in the warm, sunny part of my favorite state. I’ll be writing March’s newsletter while I’m there.

Another year has passed. I hope everyone had a great Christmas, with lots of presents and good cheer. Happy New Year to everyone! The highlight of this winter will be our March Turf Conference and Trade Show. Your attendance is a must and your club cannot miss this opportunity to send you.

What a great Fall Wind-up we had at Dakota Dunes Casino. Jim Ross gave an excellent presentation on Winter Protection. The presentation was very comprehensive and had everyone’s attention. We had great attendance with 74 people enjoying the fellowship and food throughout the day

The STA Fall Wind-up and Annual General Meeting is approaching quickly. It’s at the Dakota Dunes Casino on Tuesday, December 2nd. Jim Ross from Olds Alberta will present the seminar: “Winter Protection”. This should be of interest to all Turf Managers in our province. Learn the latest in the protection of your golf course from snow moulds, desiccation and so on. The whole day should be enjoyable so plan on being there. The cost to STA members is $50.00 which covers the seminar, continental breakfast, lunch and the banquet.

The end of the season is fast approaching. Some of the busier Clubs are aerating greens and topdressing. The fungicide program is speeding up with the added frequency of applications. Shortly, irrigation lines will be blown. Take your time with this important function to make sure all water is removed. If you have experienced any problems with your pump or motor, remove it this fall and have it repaired. Don’t wait until the spring. The same holds true for sprinkler heads. After removing them make sure the openings leading to the water lines are capped for the winter.

The STA 2008 Research Tournament as a successful event. The Jackfish Lodge’s people treated us very well and deserve a huge thank you for their kindness. Kyle Kellgreen looked after all our needs and contributed to a great event. Everyone who attended commented on not only the fine facility but the fine condition of the golf course as well.

Golf courses around our province are rebounding after a dreadful spring. The main culprit, mostly in the southern part of the province, was desiccation. With the cool spring greens in particular had a tough time coming back. Greens at the Hillcrest in Moose Jaw were excellent this spring. Hard working superintendent Gary Cross did a fine job removing snow and hauling water to his greens early in the spring. The same was true in Swift Current where Doug Leavins and Richard Berg hauled water to their greens early in the spring also.