Puddling and long drainage time fixed by 1" x 7" sand slits
Lochgelly Golf Club 18th Green
Issue: This is a typical original construction golf green of around 500m², with a drain, which was installed several years ago, running through the middle. When it rained, puddles would form on either side of the drain and would take a long time to drain away leaving the green unplayable, meaning that a temporary green would have to be in place all season as a contingency.
Solution: The FR1 trencher was utilised to dig 1” x 7” sand slits running parallel to the drain using the natural topography of the ground. The poor quality rootzone was removed from the surface of the green and backfilled with Chelford 35 sand. This is a good quality medium coarse topdressing/drainage sand.
Results: The following day there was a considerable downpour of rain. At its heaviest there was slight surface puddling but immediately after the rain stopped, the surface water had all drained away. The Head Greenkeeper at the time, Paul Armour, was impressed with the speed of the job and the end result and provided positive feedback on the improved playability of the green. He said “This was a quick and simple solution to problems we faced at the time.”
Dr. Christian Spring (STRI) says:
"Based on data and observations from this trial, the appropriate use of the pedestrian trencher to carry out localise drainage improvement works, should result in measurable better surfaces, especially during wet periods of the year."
"Based on data and observations from this trial, the appropriate use of the pedestrian trencher to carry out localise drainage improvement works, should result in measurable better surfaces, especially during wet periods of the year."
A Problem We've Solved
Surface run-off onto key areas causing puddling and affecting playability.
Solution: Use ForthRoots FR1 to dig a 3" wide, gravel-filled intercept drain, linked to an outlet to reduce run off and provide a significantly firmer playing surface.