how is agolf course managed for pest control

by Alf Langosh 6 min read

The most important but often overlooked element of pest management on golf courses is ensuring that knowledge exists at all levels of the program. This is especially true today as golf courses are under scrutiny by many organizations and special interests.

Full Answer

What happens to pesticides applied to golf courses?

At least not to the extent that critics state in undocumented media hype. Golf course superintendents apply pesticides and fertilizers to the course, and depending on an array of processes, these chemicals break down into by-products that are biologically inactive.

How do golf courses manage gophers?

The most practical and efficient method of controlling large numbers of pocket gophers (such as on golf courses) is to place toxic baits by hand in active burrow systems. Proper baiting requires that you place the baits beneath the ground in main runways—so they are not exposed to children, pets, or nontarget species.

Are golf courses sprayed with pesticides?

The Pesticide Specialist explained that pesticides are used on golf courses and other recreational areas to maintain the health and appearance of the turf. James learned that most golf courses have highly trained golf course superintendents who manage the course, including turf management and pest control strategies.

How do golf courses get rid of mosquitoes?

There are a number of insecticides that are very effective against adult mosquitoes and are labelled for use on golf courses. Pyrethroids, such as products containing bifenthrin, deltamethrin or lambda-cyhalothrin, are especially effective at controlling mosquitoes while also providing good residual activity.Jun 17, 2016

How do golf courses get rid of squirrels?

This pest elimination system, developed by Meyer Industries, uses a wand inserted into a burrow hole, and a mixture of oxygen and propane gas is shot into the hole for typically 60 to 90 seconds, depending on the type of animal.

Does wild urine get rid of gophers?

Predator pee is an effective, all-natural way to deter destructive mammalian pests of all sizes, from mice and gophers to raccoon and deer. Predator urine deterrents come in many different options, including fox, wolf, mountain lion, bear, bobcat, and more.

How do golf courses get their grass so green?

Golf courses use aerators to create small holes in their fairways, so water, air and nutrients can reach down to the grass roots. This helps the grass grow deeper roots and it also creates an opening to help it break through to the topsoil.May 18, 2016

How much pesticides are used on golf courses?

However, “Toxic Fairways” calculated that golf courses applied about 50,000 pounds of pesticides in one year, which can be anywhere from four to seven times more than the average amount utilized in agriculture on a pound/acre basis (Feldman).May 14, 2018

What herbicides do golf courses use?

For warm season turfgrass, Certainty, Sedgehammer, Celero, or Monument herbicides are effective. For resistance management and improved control, mix the aforementioned herbicides with Dismiss and/or Basagran T/O herbicides. For cool season turfgrass, Sedgehammer, Dismiss, or Basagran T/O works well.May 18, 2019

How do you get rid of coots in golf?

Coot populations in our area fluctuate as new birds migrate through in fall and winter, and others leave the area. You can try applying mylar reflective tape streamers on poles in areas the coots use to scare them off, but the birds usually get used to this. In addition, these might be distracting to golfers.Apr 6, 2012