The changing of the Greenkeeper at a Club can potentially be a difficult time, especially if the new Greenkeeper is less experienced that the previous incumbent.
In order to allow as smooth a transition as possible, information pertaining to the following topics should be passed from the outgoing Greenkeeper to the new incumbent.
Please note that the following notes are intended to assist in the smooth transfer of responsibilities. They are by no means a fully comprehensive list as each Club will have their own established procedures, reporting structures, fertilizer and chemical stocks, and equipment inventory.
Soil
It is important to know as much as possible about the soil conditions of a green, as poor quality conditions will always create a problem for the development and maintenance of the green. Topics to consider are:
• Particle size.
• Clay content.
• Compaction.
• Latest soil sample report to check chemical balance of the soil.
• Macro thatch severity.
Grass
• Type of grass (single or multiple varieties).
• Adaptation to climatic conditions present.
• Degree of hardness.
• Recovery period.
• Watering requirements.
• Mowing requirements.
• Resistance to fungi and disease.
• Frost tolerance.
• Run rate.
• Potential to develop nap.
• Shade resistance (especially in winter)
Levels
It is important to know the levels of a green. Poor levels can contribute to:
• Adverse playing conditions
• Problems with watering
• Uneven fertilization
• Extended timeframe need to level the green
Bowls South Africa will only recognize a levels report is it is less than three years old.
It should also be noted that for instance Silverton blue cannot take more than 5mm of top dressing, and it is not advisable to exceed 10 mm for any grass species in a single application.
Water
• Is there an adequate supply of water?
• Is a borehole is used?
• When were the pumps and tanks last checked?
• What is the condition of the borehole water?
Trees and Shrubs
It is important to check that any trees and shrubs adjacent to a green do not negatively affect the grass. In certain cases these may need to be removed or pruned back.
Green Dimensions
Ensure they conform as alterations may have to be carried out. This also includeds ditch sizes and bank heights.
Inventory
Compile an inventory and ensure it is signed off by the committee. Equipment should typically include:
• Cutting Machines.
• Verti -cutters.
• Bank Cutters.
• Rollers (medium, dew, drying and roller polisher).
• Knapsack.
• Watering Equipment.
• Turf Doctor.
• Soil Sampler.
• Drag Net.
• Sieving Equipment.
• Toolbox.
• Levelling Equipment.
• Scale and/or measuring jugs.
• Mixing drum or fertiliser spreader.
• Hand tools including spades, forks, core cutters etc.
• Chemicals and fertilisers.
Machines
Check all machinery is in good working order as it could become a costly exercise to restore them. Check that there is sufficient equipment.