Front Range winters can wreak havoc on south facing slopes. The extreme sun exposure, wind, fluctuating temperatures and lack of regular irrigation or snow fall can lead to desiccation and turf loss. Even when the snow or rain falls, these slopes do not hold water well.
To reduce the amount of sod we need to install each spring, we experimented with straw mats along a bunker slope on the 3rd green last year and it came out of winter in great shape. These mats provide shade relief from the sun intensity, they allow the plants to breathe. Moisture can still get into the slope and help keep it around a little longer. As you can see this slope was recently irrigated and the water runs down into the bunker. So any competitive edge we can provide to these slopes is a bonus.
You will notice these mats going on this week on various bunker slopes around the property. We ask that you DO NOT walk over these mats. They can be slippery and spikes can get caught. Please walk around the mats to access the bunker. The mats will be removed in the spring when growth resumes.
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