Cicada Killer Wasp

These are the very large wasps that I have been getting calls and questions about lately.  They have really started to show up (along with their burrows) in the last 2-3 weeks.  These really do not pose any threat to humans despite their intimidating size.

If you take a minute to listen, especially around some trees, you will hear all the cicadas.  These wasps help to limit the cicada population, and in turn that helps save some damage to trees.  

Unless they begin to burrow into greens, tees, bunkers, or any other playing surface I have always left these wasps alone, and let nature run its course.

Link to another article about Cicada Killer Wasps

New Green Section Articles

Article From Adam Moeller USGA Agronomist Northeast Region

USGA: Northeast



Article From David Oatis, Director Northeast Region

July

Thatch Eliminator Trial

Today some of the crew set up a trial for a product called Thatch Eliminator.  The product was spread over a few tees and just half of others to get a true check how well it works.  The product claims to aid in the Microbial Degradation of thatch.  If there are great results, the same process will be repeated on all tees and also some fairway spots.  We will see in a month. 

Pulled Cores on 7 tee to see if it helps to add the product directly to aeration holes

Thatch present on 7 tee today

Drop spreading the materiel...You will see these check areas painted off on a few tees for the next 30+ days

Moisture Meters

There have been plenty of guesses what this device is used for....The correct answer is a Moisture Meter. It gives the % water content in the soil.  Right now we are using 3" probes and the meter takes the average percentage through the full 3" depth.  As our roots begin to shorten during heat stress we will switch to shorter 1.5" probes.  

This device allows us to monitor our water content and try to keep greens consistent.  This also keeps playing conditions consistent.  During summer heat the meter helps us decide whether to water or syringe/ cool off the surface.  

So spread the word that it reads moisture content....Although I wish it could also give me the temperature and green speed along with the other guesses I've heard.