More than normal precipitation and below average temperatures have put members in a bind as we enter June. In discussion with members in Minnesota, many facilities are suffering from difficult winter and abnormal spring weather patterns. In the Minneapolis area, high-profile clubs may not open all season due to poor turf conditions. I will watch to see how this impacts the labor market as well.

It’s not just Minnesota suffering. Flooding, although conditions have improved, continues to be an issue in Iowa and Nebraska, as well. Those in North Dakota along the Red River are dealing with high water, although river levels are trying to recede.

Travels this month took me to Florida and Oregon, as well as Kansas and Missouri.  In addition, this month staff completes its annual review cycle and it was important to have administrative office time to complete the task.

Meeting with Ralph Dain, we had various facility visits and meetings in the Gulf scheduled. I had an impactful visit with Pat O’Brien at Florida's Panama CC. The club was devastated by Hurricane Michael. We wanted to check in with Pat to see how he and the club is doing.

With a smile on his face, and optimism in his eyes, he showed us the progress that has been made at the classic Donald Ross facility. Nearly every tree was lost. They are nearly complete with a greens renovation and he’s hopeful to get the course open this summer.

There are still scars from the hurricane. The maintenance building is demolished in some spots, not to mention how it’s been difficult to retain labor as other industries are hiring people for more than double of what the club can pay.

Through it all, Pat maintains an exceptional attitude and is determined to get the club on the right track. With his determination and enthusiasm, the renovation and re-opening will be a success.

From there met in Wichita with members of the Heart and Kansas GCSA at their annual joint meeting. It was a solid turnout. With the weather being perfect, attendees reflected on trying to balance their attendance at the event, knowing that there is so much work needed to be done on the golf course. 

Members were in good spirits, but were ready for conditions to become more favorable for the golf course. 

In Oregon, I spoke at the chapter’s annual meeting, thanks to an invitation from chapter executive Alexis Wenker and Mr. Dave Phipps. A great turnout. The chapter revamped this event over the past few years following board discussion and strategic planning.  The effect was to make the day a celebration for the chapter, which various awards and scholarship winners being recognized. 

Following the event, I heard many individuals comment to Dave that this meeting continues to excel, with the event being the best since revamping the agenda.  Kudos to the chapter!

The month concluded with visits to Southeast Kansas and the Ozarks. Rain was the mantra during the visits. In Joplin, Mo., over six inches of rain fell in a 12-hour period.  Superintendents were hunkered down, waiting for favorable weather to assess their golf courses. 

In June, I will be attending meetings and events in Iowa and Minnesota. We will continue to monitor flooding and impacts this may have for members. As a note, if you have suffered personal loss from a natural disaster, GCSAA may be able to assist. Please contact me (800-472-7878)  if you have questions.

All the best!