1/16/2013 11:01 AM
I do not have any horror stories to share but there are a few things to consider.
Frost is, generally, a superficial damage. The blueish to black frost colored damage can easily turn a straw color. The results of the frost damage will stick around until the turf begins to grow. The grass will recover in most cases as long as the frost damage does not affect the crown of the plant. Most frost damage is isolated due to frost delay policies. Therefore, most damage is slight. A couple questions should be answered before making a hard frost policy. The first is, are normal weather patterns in your area conducive to frequent frost mornings? The second question is, will my turf recover fast enough to prevent further frost damage which, very well, could lead to permanent damage? The third question is, is the revenue generated by letting golfers out during frost greater than the potential repair costs should permanent damage occur. And lastly, are there long term reputation repercussions to your golf course by allowing golfers to play while frost is on the course ? Meaning, will the golfers think the greens are in horrible condition come spring-time and not want to play your course thus resulting in reduced spring-time revenue? Essentially are they (the decision makers) stepping over a buck (spring-time revenue) to pick up a nickel (winter-time revenue)?