Glyphosate Usage at Olde Florida Golf Club / Part 2

Part 2

Successful Bermudagrass Eradication 

One of the most crucial aspects of the 2021 renovation at Olde Florida is the eradication of the existing turfgrass. If a high level of bermudagrass eradication is not achieved the results of the golf course renovation will be less than desirable. 

Bermudagrass eradication is extremely challenging due in part to the plants inherent deep rhizomes. A rhizome is a horizontal, underground stem, which puts out lateral shoots and roots at multiple intervals. Rhizomes can remain dormant for long periods of time and eventually allow bermudagrass to regenerate when growing conditions are favorable.

Extensive research has been performed on bermudagrass eradication. I have based the eradication program at Olde Florida on three peer reviewed university studies, which are summarized below. 

The first study was performed by B.J. Johnson, while at the University of Georgia. The results of Dr. Johnson’s research were published in 1988. The data showed that three applications of glyphosate at 2 quarts per acre were needed to achieve acceptable control. His applications were made in May, June and August. 

Dr. Johnson's research also demonstrated that three glyphosate applications, which is a lower than allowable labeled rate, were much more effective than a higher, single or split application. 

The second definitive study was performed by John Boyd at the University of Arkansas in 1998 and 1999 and published in 2000. Dr. Boyd's research confirmed Dr. Johnson's data from a decade earlier. The results again demonstrated that three applications of glyphosate at 2 quarts per acre, to actively growing, non-stressed bermudagrass over the entire summer were necessary to achieve 98% control. 

Dr. Boyd's study also confirmed that repeat split applications were far superior to a single application of the herbicide at the maximum label rate. In fact, Dr. Boyd found that 5 months after a single application at the maximum label rate, the plot had zero percent control, as compared to 98% control on the three application plot at the reduced rate of 2 quarts per acre.  

Finally, in 2001 and 2002 at the University of Florida, West Florida Research Center another study on bermudagrass eradicaton was conducted. The data from this research concluded that three applications of glyphosate tank mixed with an additional herbicide, Fusilade II, four weeks apart achieved 99% control 12 weeks after initial treatment. Dr. Bryan Unruh, Professor and Associate Center Director, University of Florida was one of the researchers in this study. I have consulted with Dr. Unruh on many aspects of the project at Olde Florida. 

The timing between the herbicide applications is also a key component to the bermudagrass eradication process. Re-growth is essential since spraying “brown”, non-actively growing bermudagrass with postemergence herbicides is of no value. An important component of encouraging bermudagrass re-growth is the maintenance of  adequate moisture and nutrient levels in the soil. The Olde Florida agronomy team will be providing irrigation based on the plants need, as well as supplying a food source with light frequent applications of soluble nitrogen throughout the entire eradication process. 

The herbicide applications at Olde Florida are scheduled (weather permitting) for March 16, April 19 and May 21. Grassing the golf course will not begin until mid-June, which will allow for additional spot treatments (after the scheduled three complete applications) if deemed necessary.    

 

Herbicide Application at Olde Florida Golf Club on March 16, 2021

 Herbicide Application at Olde Florida Golf Club on March 16, 2021

 

 Herbicide Application at Olde Florida Golf Club on March 16, 2021

 Herbicide Application (Click here, or above to play video) at Olde Florida Golf Club on March 16, 2021

Glyphosate Usage at Olde Florida Golf Club / Part 1

Part 1 

Glyphosate Health and Safety 

Glyphosate is the active ingredient found in numerous herbicides including Roundup, one of the products the agronomy team will utilize to eradicate the existing bermudagrass at Olde Florida. Since its introduction in 1974, glyphosate products have become one of the most commonly used herbicides in the U.S. The widespread adoption is the result of glyphosate’s ability to control a broad spectrum of weeds, its extensive economic and environmental benefits and its strong safety profile. 

Glyphosate works by inhibiting an enzyme present in plants that people and animals do not produce. Glyphosate exhibits low toxicity to humans and non-plant wildlife over both short and long-term exposures. In the environment, glyphosate binds tightly to soil, degrades over time and does not accumulate in the food chain.

Glyphosate is among the most extensively tested pesticides on the market. Most recently, in January 2020, the U.S. EPA published its Registration Review Decision on Glyphosate and stated “EPA has thoroughly evaluated potential human health risk associated with exposure to glyphosate and determined that there are no risks to human health from the current registered uses of glyphosate and that glyphosate is not likely to be carcinogenic to humans.”

 

The EPA’s latest decision on glyphosate adds to the overwhelming consensus among leading expert health regulators worldwide for more than 40 years that the products can be used safely, and that glyphosate does not cause cancer. In addition to the U.S. EPA, leading health authorities from around the world continue to conclude that glyphosate-based products are safe when used as directed and that glyphosate does not pose a carcinogenic risk.

As with any pesticide utilized at Olde Florida, the agronomy team will follow all label instructions and safety precautions explicitly when applying the Roundup, and the other products being utilized during the renovation project. The label does specify, "Keep people and pets off treated areas until spray solution has dried."  Therefore, the golf course will remain closed on the day of application. For a complete Roundup label please click here.  

More detailed information on scientific studies associated with glyphosate can be found in the links below: 

US EPA: Releases Risk Assesments for Glyphosate

US FDA: Questions and Answers on Glyphosate

National Pesticide Information Center: Glyphosate Fact Sheet

In addition, for a very thorough and informative YouTube video prepared by the University of Florida on the controversy over the use of Glyphosate please click here:  Glyphosate: Understanding the Controversy  

Assistant Golf Course Superintendent Position Description / Job Annoucement

Assistant Golf Course Superintendent Position Description

Available Immediately 

Designed by Rees Jones and opened in 1993, Olde Florida Golf Club is a distinguished private, individual-membership club located in Naples, Florida. Olde Florida is a golf-only facility that exists for the sole enjoyment of its membership. Olde Florida is recognized as one of the premier clubs in the Southwest Florida market and beyond. Located on 220 acres, the 18-hole course provides a challenging, but enjoyable, test of golf in a natural setting. Olde Florida is an established, invitation-only club, currently with a multi-year waiting list to join. 

The club and the agronomy team continually strive to upgrade the course and facilities as well as improve in all areas of maintenance and management. This desire has led to Olde Florida undergoing a significant renovation project over the summer of 2021. Among numerous other items, included is a complete re-grassing to TifTuf bermudagrass as well as a bunker renovation with the installation of the Better Billy Bunker system. In 2010, the original Rain Bird hydraulic system was replaced with a Toro electric Lynx Control System, but the 2021 renovation will include the replacement of the 1295 individually controlled Toro 855 heads with the Toro Infinity series heads. Leibold Irrigation/Construction has been hired as the contractor to assist Olde Florida staff with the project. 

The club has had only one golf course superintendent, Darren J. Davis, CGCS. Davis was hired in 1992 and has helped advance the careers of dozens of turfgrass professionals. Among other industry involvement and accolades, Davis was the 82nd president of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America and is currently active on the local, state and national level. More information on Davis and Olde Florida can be found at:  DarrenJDavisGCS.com 

The individual we are seeking is someone with a strong personality and skillset, but more importantly, a perpetual positive attitude. While there is never room for complacency among any staff, a positive work-life balance will be provided and is expected. In addition, personal character and leadership qualities will have more of an impact than tactile abilities or agronomic knowledge. Efficiency, effective time management and putting others before yourself are also attributes that we are seeking in our newest agronomy team member at Olde Florida. 

Under the golf course superintendent's direction, the assistant superintendent manages and supervises a dedicated staff of golf course grounds personnel and is responsible for assisting in the planning of daily routine maintenance and long-range golf course improvements. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 

Eager to learn and perform a lead role in the golf course’s daily preparation for members and guests, which includes proper maintenance of greens, tees, fairways and roughs, emphasizing environmental stewardship 
 

Responsible for training staff in all areas of course maintenance, which includes the proper care and storage of all equipment 
 

Forward-thinker who is detail-oriented and possesses a keen eye to promote a positive working environment 
 

Assist in an intricate water-management plan, which includes hand watering and syringing, irrigation program setup and adjusting run times as needed 
 

Safety is paramount in all golf maintenance areas, which includes the shop, all equipment, course, roadways, chemical usage and storage 
 

Work with the equipment manager to ensure that all equipment is properly cleaned and stored 
 

Supervise and participate in chemical and fertilizer applications to ensure proper handling of materials, which includes maintaining inventory and adequate record management 
 

Ensure a professional appearance of staff, course, equipment, and the shop are essential parts of this position 
 

Help prepare and conduct morning staff meetings to ensure team members are well informed and safe 
 Recommend purchases and assist in maintaining inventory levels

Participate in continuing education opportunities to further develop skills and remain abreast of the latest developments 

Liaise with the golf professional staff on course conditions 

 

Supervisory Responsibilities: 

The assistant superintendent maintains a supervisory role per club policies and applicable laws and regulations. The individual will play a vital role in recruiting, interviewing and training staff, planning a daily schedule, and assigning duties. 

Qualifications: 

Possesses good communication and coaching skills 

If not currently licensed, a commercial applicator license from the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services Pesticide Certification Office will be required after employment 

Possess a working knowledge of golf course conditioning, team 
building, equipment operation, water management, course construction and 
professional development 

Salary/Benefits: 

Salary $55,000- $60,000, commensurate with experience 

Health Care Safe Harbor 401(k) plan (100% match up to 3% contribution, 50% match between 3% - 5%) Clothing allowance 

Dues (regional, state and national associations) 

Continuing education 

Meals 

Paid vacation 

Aflac policies available 

Christmas bonus 

Cell phone reimbursement 

Golf privileges and employee discount on golf shop purchases 

Education and/or Experience: 

Graduate of an accredited college or university with a degree in turfgrass science/management or related field is preferred. 

A minimum of three years golf course maintenance experience is required. 

 

Contact: 

Please send resume, cover letter and any questions about the position to: 

Darren J. Davis, CGCS 

DarrenJDavis@aol.com 

(239) 353-4441 

Olde Florida Golf Club 

Darren J. Davis, CGCS 

9393 Vanderbilt Beach Road Ext. 

Naples, Florida 34120

Extending The Performance of 27-Year Old Putting Greens

The greens at Olde Florida Golf Club were constructed in 1992 to USGA Specifications. They were resurfaced in 2000, but the subsurface has never been renovated. As you might have read in my May 21 blog entry, "2021 Golf Course Renovation", the upcoming project will not include a greens renovation. In this entry I will provide more detail on why that decision was reached, and what our plan is moving forward to continue extending the performance of our 27-year old greens. 

One of the key components of extending the life of a putting green is maintaining adequate subsurface drainage and soil porosity. This is absolutely vital for the successful management of turfgrass. This has become even more critical as we maintain turfgrass on greens with an intensity, and at heights of cut that were unheard of even 10-15 years ago. If challenges exist with either the drainage or soil porosity, oxygen levels in the rootzone will be low, which can result in turfgrass decline, especially during stressful weather. 

While some organic matter in a putting green is beneficial for the receptiveness of golf shots, as well as water and nutrient holding capacity, excessive accumulation will reduce porosity and decrease drainage. There needs to be a healthy balance, and the removal of organic matter through aeration or aggressive vertical mowing, as well as the dilution with frequent sand topdressing are key components of achieving this balance.

Having been hired as we began construction of the golf course in 1992, I was able to monitor the building of the greens. Equally important, I was able to put a summer cultural practice program in place from day one that has enabled us to maintain acceptable subsurface drainage and porosity.   

Even through we have properly maintained the greens from the beginning,  before making the decision to not renovate the greens in 2021, we had several random selected core samples analyzed by an accredited soil testing laboratory. The reports we received confirmed that the physical properties that influence subsurface drainage and soil porosity are good. While still within the desired range, since the renovation in 2000 we have developed a 7″ layer of organic material on top of the original USGA greens mix. 

4" profile taken on 18 green, November 2019

4" profile taken on 18 green, November 2019
7" of organic matter has accumulated since the resurfacing in 2000

As the pictures above depict, even with frequent aeration, vertical mowing and sand topdressing, organic matter will accumulate over time. Consequently, to extend the performance of mature greens traditional core aeration needs to be supplemented with soil modification techniques that can deposit sand completely through the organic layer. Such processes include Drill and Fill and DryJect. Olde Florida will be incorporating both of these this summer. From May 27 - May 29, a Drill and Fill was performed on the greens, and the DryJect will be utilized during the last closed week of the summer, September 21 - 28.   

The Drill and Fill and DryJect processes effectively increase soil porosity and drainage due to the large amount of sand that is delivered deeper into the soil than would be possible with traditional core aeration. For deeper soil modification, the Drill and Fill methods is preferred. When lifted from the subsurface, the drill removes organic matter from the profile, leaving channels that are backfilled with dry, bagged sand. At Olde Florida, a 1” drill bit penetrated the surface of the greens to a 10” depth. Directly into the 10” holes, 168,000 pounds or 84 tons of sand was added to the subsurface of the greens.

 

This is a YouTube video of the Drill and Fill on 6 green at Olde Florida

4 semi loads of dried, bagged sand were deposited into the greens
 during the Drill and Fill process 

Drill and Fill May 27th on the practice green 

Drill and Fill, May 28th on 9 green

Drone shot of 9 green, May 28

15 days post Drill and Fill on practice green at Olde Florida  

15 days post Drill and Fill on practice green at Olde Florida 

The DryJect, that we will perform later this summer deposits  a similar quantity of sand into the profile, but at a slightly shallower depth and no organic matter is removed in this process. 

DryJect demonstration, January 2020 on the nursery green

DryJect, January 2020 on the nursery green 

Both of these practices will not be a substitute for standard core aeration at Olde Florida, rather they are treated as supplements. Essentially they are soil modification treatments. In addition to the two processes this summer, we will do three additional treatments in 2021. After 2021, we will perform one annually.

In addition, keeping putting green subsurface drain lines operational is extremely important. This is especially critical in areas like Southwest Florida, where our annual rainfall can exceed 70”. 

For the last 27 years, all of the greens subsurface drainage systems at Olde Florida have been checked annually by inserting a 1” hose into the top of the system and running at full pressure until the water leaves the exit pipe.

This link will take you to a very informative video series on the USGA Putting Green Construction Method

Profile of the USGA Putting Green Construction Method  

2021 Golf Course Renovation

Recently it was announced that the golf course at Olde Florida will undergo a renovation next summer. An outline of the project is below.

History

Constructed in late 1992 and early 1993, Olde Florida opened for play in October of 1993. Since our opening, the golf course has only been re-grassed once and that was 20 years ago during the summer of 2000.

The original turfgrass on the greens was TifDwarf. Although TifDwarf was released in 1965, in 1993 it remained the standard for putting greens in the Southern United States. During the renovation of 2000, we replaced the TifDwarf with a newer variety, TifEagle. TifEagle was released in 1997 after extensive testing under the name of TW-72. Test sites included one at Olde Florida, which was planted in 1994. 

Also, during the renovation of 2000, the remainder of the golf course was re-grassed with certified TifWay 419, which was released in 1960. In 2000, it was still considered the standard for Southern golf courses. 

The bunkers at Olde Florida were not renovated in 2000. They are “original construction,” and after 27 years, many have lost their shape, and several of the faces have deteriorated resulting in a loss of turfgrass. The greens were also not rebuilt in 2000, just re-surfaced.

Contamination 

As is commonplace in warm season turfgrass, especially on golf courses with a 12-month growing season, the turfgrass at Olde Florida has been contaminated with different strains of bermudagrass over the last 20 years. The different textures and colors of the numerous varieties of bermudagrass at first were just cosmetic, but over time, some of the less desirable varieties have become extremely challenging to maintain to the expected level. This situation is seasonal and dependent on climate and/or pest pressure. Since a large percentage of the membership is not comprised of year-round residents, the challenges with the different varieties might have gone unnoticed by some. 

After close to 10 years of intensely managing the situation, with each year becoming more challenging and time consuming as the percentage of “off type” bermudagrass increased, the board of directors and I agree the situation has reached the level that a complete re-grassing of the fairways, tees and rough is required. The project has been delayed as long as possible. 

An example of the multiple varieties (weak and strong) at Olde Florida on hole 2. Picture taken October 2019

Turfgrass Research/ Improvements

  

Since the renovation of Olde Florida in 2000, numerous improved turfgrass varieties have been released. Some of the advantages of the new varieties include improved drought, wear, cold and shade tolerance. As new varieties have been released, we have installed test plots to evaluate them from both a playability and management perspective. Some of the varieties for fairways, tees and rough that we have evaluated extensively include TifSport, Celebration, Latitude and Bimini. I have also reviewed data from research trials and made numerous site visits to other golf courses and sod farms to evaluate these and other varieties. 

In conjunction with the University of Georgia, establishing a greens variety test at Olde Florida 

Performing speed readings on the greens variety test at Olde Florida 

I have also had lengthy conversations and visits with agronomists, turfgrass researchers and extension specialists on the topics of bermudagrass eradication, soil properties and turfgrass selection. Individuals I have consulted with include: John Foy, former USGA Agronomist; Dr. Brian Schwartz, University of Georgia; Dr. Bert McCarty, Clemson University; Dr. Mike Richardson, University of Arkansas; Dr. Fred Yelverton, North Carolina State University; and Dr. J. Bryan Unruh, University of Florida. At my request, Dr. Unruh also made a site visit to Olde Florida this winter to evaluate physical soil tests performed on the greens as well as to review the proposed renovation process and timeline. 

After years of consideration, the variety that we feel will provided the best playing surface and has the most positive management improvements is TufTuf. TifTuf is a hybrid bermudagrass that was extensively tested and evaluated for over 10 years and was co-released by the University of Georgia and the United States Department of Agriculture in 2014. TifTuf can better withstand drought and traffic than previous commercial releases. In addition, it is generally faster growing and maintains turfgrass color longer in cool weather. This is a link to more information on TifTuf.

A TifTuf tee at Olde Florida on hole 16

Bunker Improvements 

As previously reported, the bunkers at Olde Florida were constructed 27 years ago and have never been rebuilt. Since that time there have been several innovations that have helped to improve the playability and reduce maintenance of bunkers. In particular, several liners/systems have been designed that greatly reduce washouts. With an average of close to 70″ of rain a year, the staff spends an exorbitant amount of time repairing washouts. It is extremely taxing on our staff and time consuming. After extensive research as well as onsite trials with several of the liners/systems, we have determined that the Better Billy Bunker system is the preferred method for the planned renovation. 

The 2021 renovation will include the removal of the existing sand, limestone gravel and drainage pipes in all the bunkers. The pipes will be inspected and replaced only if needed. The original bunker lines (shape) will then be established in consultation with Rees Jones Inc. No architectural changes, additions or deletions are going to be made to the bunkers. Next, the subsurface drainage trenches will be cleaned, pipes reinstalled and new granite gravel added. Granite gravel will then be installed in the floor of all bunkers, and the Better Billy Bunker system will be installed. The proper depth of sand will be added and, of course, checked/maintained annually. This is a link to information on the Better Billy Bunker system.

Greens

As previously detailed, the turfgrass on our greens was replaced in 2000, but the subsurface/greens construction is original. After extensive conversation, testing and consideration, it has been decided to not renovate or resurface the greens in 2021. 

While there are estimates on the lifespan of USGA greens, there are also many variables that need to be considered. There are several things we have working in our favor, which have enabled us to extend the life of the greens. First, they were correctly constructed with materials that met USGA specifications. Second, we have properly maintained them for the last 27 years. Cultural practices have been sufficient that we have not developed any significant subsurface challenges. 

Before making the decision to not renovate greens we also had several random selected core samples analyzed by an accredited soil testing laboratory. The reports we received confirmed that the physical properties (saturated hydraulic conductivity, porosity and bulk density) are good. While still within the desired range, since the renovation in 2000 we have developed a 7″ layer of organic material on top of the original USGA greens mix. Therefore, we will begin incorporating a few additional cultural practices this summer, such as Drill and Fill and DryJect. Both of these contracted services will provide a channel filled with sand that will improve percolation and rooting of the turfgrass. These practices will continue over the summer of 2021. This is link to an article published by the USGA on extending the performance of mature putting greens.

A 4" core sample of a green at Olde Florida 

A profile sample of a DryJect injection

A DryJect demo at Olde Florida

Finally, although a couple of new varieties have been released for use on greens, and several others are in testing; at this time, there haven’t been any new varieties released that can provide a significant improvement in playability or management.

Irrigation 

The project will also include the replacement of the irrigation heads. The PVC piping and ductile iron fittings (below-ground components) are original, but in 2010, the irrigation system was converted from a hydraulic-controlled to an electric-controlled system. At that time a few additional improvements were made including: additional mainline piping, additional quick-coupling valves for hand watering, new satellite controllers, new isolation valves, a new pump station and new electric heads. After 10 years, we are experiencing increased head failures, and we feel that due to significant improvements in head design, replacement at this time is warranted. 

Timeline

One of the most vital aspects of the proposed renovation is the eradication of the existing turfgrass. Bermudagrass eradication is extremely challenging, in part, due to methyl bromide (a soil fumigant) being removed for the golf course market in 2009. 

Extensive research has been performed on bermudagrass eradication that does not include methyl bromide. The two studies that are definitive and have provided the best process are a 1988 study out of the University of Georgia, followed by a similar study performed at the University of Arkansas in 1998 and 1999. The results of both show that multiple applications with a combination of non-selective herbicides over a several month period are necessary to achieve 96-99% eradication. In addition to the multiple applications, recent research from both the University of Tennessee and the University of Arkansas has shown that the addition of aggressive detaching with fraze mowing can enhance the efficacy of the chemical control. All of the above recommendations will be followed at Olde Florida in 2021.

Consequently, to achieve acceptable eradication of the existing bermudagrass, the golf course will be closed for two days, March 15 and 16, 2021, to make the initial herbicide application. The golf course will then reopen for play until the second application on April 19, 2021. At that time, the golf course will close for all play and will reopen on Monday November 1, 2021.  

This is a link to an article detailing some of the research that has been performed on bermudagrass eradication.

Additional Resources 

This a link to an article detailing the "History of Bermudagrass Turfgrass Breeding Research in Tifton, Georgia."

"Could a Golf Course Skip Cultural Practices?"

I was recently asked the question, “Could a golf course skip cultural practices for a period of time, such as one year?” 

This is a fairly common question in the industry in the midst of the challenging times we're facing with Covid-19. The quick and honest answer I provided was, “Yes.” However, that answer definitely needed to be expanded upon, so I added, “In the short term, if needed, a cultural practice(s) could be skipped if the turfgrass is healthy and the system has been properly managed in the past. And, if it will continue to be managed correctly in the future.”

The challenge with just the quick answer, “Yes” is, why not universal, it could lead to a situation where management or golfers could say, "We skipped it this year/this time and everything is fine.” This is why I stressed to the individual that each situation, and each facility needs to carefully analyze the long term effects of not performing a cultural practice(s).  In addition, there are other factors that need to be considered, including financial (short and long term), how much play is, or will the course receive and what are the standards (current and long term) that a course expects/demands. 

In laymen terms, to maintain healthy turfgrass, a plant needs the correct amount, and proper quality of water, air, nutrients and sunlight. Cultural practices influence the first three (water, air and nutrient uptake). In addition, aerification, vertical mowing and topdressing  reduce compaction, reduce thatch, increase porosity, smooth the surface, reduce grain and ultimately assist in producing a healthy plant, which in turn creates a high quality playing surface. This is why cultural practices are necessary, and ultimately the one who benefits from them is the golfer. 

“When” cultural practices are performed, also needs to considered. Ideally, the practices should be performed when the plant is most actively growing so recovery is quick and player impact is relatively low. In the south, this means golf courses perform the majority of the more aggressive cultural practices in the summer. In the north, where the growing season is not year round, it is a little more challenging to find the “right time” and often courses must decide when is the “best time”.  

In my tenure in the industry I have seen tremendous equipment improvements, amazing technology enhancements, in depth research, improved turfgrass species and enhanced communication within the industry. All of this has enabled better turfgrass management, including less disruptive cultural practices, or less intrusive methods. 

I finished my answer to the individual that asked the question with, "Golf course management is part art and part science, and there is not one set method or schedule provided on how to maintain turfgrass. This includes includes how, when and how often cultural practices are performed. However, I am confident that in times like this the problem solving nature of a golf course superintendent becomes very evident."  

Coronavirus Precautions at Olde Florida Golf Club

Coronavirus (Covid-19) is a respiratory disease that has spread from China to many countries around the world, including the United States. To reduce the impact of Covid-19 outbreak on businesses, workers, customers and the public it's important for everyone to plan now and take precautions.   The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides the latest information about COVID-19 and the global outbreak: That information can be found here. 

Coronavirus is spread between people who are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet). It is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly inhaled into the lungs.  It's also be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it, and then touch their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. People are thought to be the most contagious when they are most symptomatic  (i.e., experiencing fever, cough and/or shortness of breath).

The goal of the Olde Florida Golf Club Coronavirus Precautions Document (below) is to protect employees and members, as well as to minimize a potential disruption to daily operations at Olde Florida Golf Club. 

The staff has been made aware that it's vital to adhere to the proactive and sensible precautions outlined in the document. The staff have been made aware that these are unprecedented times and this is a fluid situation. Items in the document may be modified, or more added as more is learned about COVID-19.

Employees have also been advised that these same precautions should be followed when not on Olde Florida Golf Club property in order to protect fellow employees and members, as well as helping to stop the spread of this potentially deadly virus in our community and throughout the country. 

Olde Florida Golf Club - Coronavirus Precautions Document   

• Employees will be trained in a group setting on proper hand washing and the transmission of the Coronavirus.

• Employees should cover their mouth when coughing and sneezing.  

• Employees should not use other employees phones, desks or offices.

• Employees should wash hands frequently and always wash their hands prior to operating one of the microwaves or eating food.

Informational posters in the employee lunchroom

• Employees should avoid touching their face.

• Employees will be tested daily with a "no-touch thermometer gun" prior to beginning work. 

• Group meetings will be held in an outdoor setting. Daily job assignments will be provided to staff on the electronic work board, not a physical meeting.

• There should be no gathering of employees in the lunchroom, restroom or any "under air" space at anytime - maximum occupancy of this space is limited to 10 people at a time.  

• NO non-employees or members (including vendors and contractors) are allowed on site without the permission of the golf course superintendent. Scheduled deliveries from an established vendor/source are an exception (US Mail, UPS, parts or operational products, etc.) However, there should be no physical touching or interaction, including the signing of delivery tickets.

This sign has been placed on all entrances in the agronomy center 

• Any vendor or contractor that has been deemed essential to the golf course operations will be required to wear a supplied pair of disposable gloves (available at the reception desk) and will be instructed to maintain a 6' distance from all Olde Florida Golf Club employees and/or members.

• All packages received from UPS, USPS, Amazon or FedEx will be placed on a table in the facility (under roof, but not "under air"). All packages will be wiped with bleach solution prior to being opened. 

• If golf course equipment is delivered, the vendor will not be allowed in the building and will be instructed to maintain a 6' distance from all Olde Florida Golf Club employees. An Olde Florida Golf Club employee, wearing gloves will immediately pressure wash and disinfect the new equipment. 

• Golf course water bottle cooler lids and closure straps will be sanitized twice daily - in the morning when being filled and after lunch. This task will be assigned by the assistant superintendent.

• Employee assigned to fill water coolers with water bottles and ice will wear disposable gloves. 

• Practice green flagsticks, member trap rakes, ball washers, golf cart sand buckets and scoops have been removed and will not be utilized until further notice. 

• A spray bottle with a mixture of 1/2 cup bleach to one gallon of water will be provided to each employee. Employees are to wipe down anything they touch immediately.

Sanitizing solution

• If an employee is sick, or feeling sick, they are not to come to work. If this is the case, employees should send a text message to a supervisor.

• When changing the pin, the flagstick and the 2” PVC insert (temporarily being used to stop a golf ball from descending into the bottom of the cup) should be thoroughly wiped down with sanitizing solution. Members and caddies have been asked to not touch the flagstick at anytime. 

Employee changing the pin on hole #10

Temporary ball restriction device 

• Time cards will not to be utilized until notified. An assistant superintendent is responsible for communicating with the office manager to ensure payroll is correct.   

• The two assistant superintendent’s will alternate weeks on/off. They will work out their own schedule. 

• The assistant superintendent, office manager, equipment manager and superintendent are responsible for wiping down all surfaces in their respective offices with sanitizing solution on a daily basis. 

• The office manager will wipe down all door handles, refrigerator handles, thermostat, etc., upon arrival, after the lunch break and prior to leaving. 

Sanitizing products are available to all employees

• One employee will be scheduled to remain in the facility each day and wipe down all items that are touched i.e. steering wheels, fuel pump handles, hand tools, wash rack handles, blow off stations air tools, mail box handle, light switches, sun tan lotion pumps, sink faucets, door closures (chains), interior locker handles, break room furniture, etc. 

• All large golf course equipment (carts, fairway mowers, etc.) will be pressure cleaned weekly. 

Olde Florida Golf Club Agronomy Center

• Where possible doors should remain open and untouched i.e interior doors.

• All staff should maintain a 6’ distance between each other at all times. No touching another staff member or another staff members personal items. 

• All staff should ride in individual golf carts unless approved by management. 

• All silverware provided by Olde Florida Golf Club will be individual wrapped and no bulk condiments are allowed in the facility. There should be no sharing of food. 

Olde Florida will provide utensils to employees

• No on premise soccer until further notice.

• Only two chairs at each of the three inside tables.

• In order to accommodate social distancing during the lunch period, and to minimize employees in "under air" space, two of the three microwaves have been moved to the outside facility. After each use the microwave handle should be sanitized. All of the precautions listed above will also apply to the lunch period.