As I work to create a spectator course and future short course at Nevin Park I wanted to point out an important course building tip. Often during a pre-cut or initial cut workers cut small trees to only 3-4″ tall. These stumps get lost in the leaf litter and become lost in the leaves and debris. These stumps can be serious tripping and finish clearing hazards. I typically do a final mow of a fairway to remove all the small growth and these types of stumps ruin mowers. They also get missed and become ankle turners for players. Here are a few pictures of an “initial cut.” I cut small trees and dead trees to waist high. You are able to see the line without making hidden hazards or dulling a saw chain. Often this can just be done with a simple folding saw and loppers. After debris is hauled away these can be cut to ground level buy digging around the stump with a hoe and cutting flush. *Important note: Compression from walking will sink the soil 3-4 ” So follow up maintenance will be needed to remove those stumps that protrude from the ground. Her are some pictures of an initial cut on a new fairway and then after the debris have been cleared.
