Poor growing environments promote disease.

Below is a photo of a turf disease called Pythium blight.  It grows in hot humid weather, like we have been experiencing the last few days.  It has the potential to cause significant damage if left untreated. 

This photo was taken along a tree line on the eastern side of the 5th hole.  The soil is compacted, and this area remains in the shade until late morning, extending the length of time that moisture remains on the plants.  

The combination of compacted soil, extended shade, and reduced sunlight is also found on prime playing areas that are covered by cultural and chemical programs that protect the turf from this disease.  The poor growing environments decrease the efficacy of these programs, and often require additional labor, fertilizer, and chemical inputs to maintain playing conditions consistent with the rest of the course.  

Removing trees maximizes sun exposure, improves air circulation, and eliminated root competition on prime playing areas.  This improves the plants ability to perform its basic functions, and makes all our management programs more effective.