Marias Valley Golf & Country Club

Superintendent Newsletter                         July 2007

I would like to thank the board and members of Marias Valley for the opportunity to become the course superintendent. After graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in turf management, I started here at MVGCC last November.

The transition has been smooth, thanks to the help of my staff. Year-round returning staff members Mike Klingler, equipment manager, Ray Waller, project manager, and Kelly Hayes, irrigation tech, as well as seasonal employees have worked hard to ensure the continued quality of the course.

The course ended last season in good condition, and winter kill of turf was at a minimum. The spring season started with a few irrigation challenges, but spring progress went as planned.

We made a few changes to make the course more golfer-friendly. The cart path on #4 was moved further from the green. Now, mediocre shots into the green are less penal with the hope of speeding up play. On #5, the bank of the reservoir was raised and sodded to allow a view of the shot from the tee box, eliminating the guessing game of whether the shot ended up in the reservoir or in play.

One of the major changes to the course has been the addition of fifty spruce trees as part of our attempt to replace some of the trees that have been lost over the past few years. The trees were donated by Shelby native Justin Aikins and Lawyer Nursery of Plains, MT.

The major challenge for superintendents across the region this summer has been the record hot and dry conditions. Because of these conditions and the lack of water, I have had to prioritize where water is used. Since the greens have always been the face and attraction of MVGCC, they have received first priority and continue to remain healthy through the heat. We have also maintained the good condition and aesthetics of the tees and fairways, while allowing the driving range and roughs to endure the heat without supplemental irrigation.

More than ever, it is important to assist the staff with maintenance by demonstrating golf course etiquette as posted.

We are currently updating the pump station to allow us to better utilize the water we already have available. Installation of a new intake for the new pump should make it possible to again irrigate the entire course.

I appreciate the chance to visit with anyone who has questions, comments or concerns about Marias Valley. I look forward to the challenges and rewards the job brings and hope to see you on the course.

Cole Clark
MVGCC Superintendent