Thursday, November 27, 2014

Happy Thanksgiving

We would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.
 
During this time as we look to those things that we all most thankful for, it is important not to forget the men and women of the US Armed Forces both past and present. On this day of thanks be sure to let those who have served or are serving our country know how thankful we are for them.

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Veteran's Day

On Veteran's Day, our most heartfelt thanks goes out to all those who have served or are serving our country. We also share a great admiration for the families of service men and women. A sincere thanks to you as well.
 
 
Many have fought and died for the freedoms and opportunities we have as Americans. Honor a veteran; not just today but everyday.

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Sustainability Initiatives

IGM Staff building bird houses at community event
International Golf Maintenance (IGM) is committed to the continuous enhancement of the environment, conserving natural resources and protecting precious wildlife habitat. We are leaders in environmental performance through stewardship, education, employee involvement and the utilization of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) as well as sound Best Management Practices (BMP). We are committed to providing high quality services in a manner that ensures a safe and healthy workplace for our employees and minimizes our potential impact on the environment. 
 
We recognize that economic development needs to be compatible with human welfare and a healthy environment. To ignore this is to risk increasing social, environmental and financial costs. Our role in managing and reducing environmental risk is one we take seriously and we regularly work in conjunction with governmental agencies, organizations and individuals to ensure our goals are achieved. We are committed to work together with all of those who share our commitment and endeavor to identify realistic, sustainable solutions to the challenges facing the golf industry.
 
IGM’s initiatives vary widely from property to property.  Here are some highlights:
 
-          Water-use reduction
o   computerized scheduling
o   usage of a percent of evapo-transpiration
o   low-water use plantings
o   inspecting the system regularly and repairing leaks immediately
o   usage of reclaimed water where available
o   stopping irrigation cycles during or after rain events
o   small-scale watering of localized dry spots
o   watering deep and infrequently to encourage efficient root uptake by the plant
o   usage of cycle-soak irrigation to limit runoff
o   usage of variable frequency drive motors at the pumping stations
o   applying wetting agents to distribute water evenly through the soil profile
o   limiting irrigation cycles during high-wind periods
o   usage of moisture meters on surfaces in an effort to apply only the amount needed
o   adjusting individual sprinklers to limit water being thrown into desert areas or on hardscapes
o   leveling and raising irrigation heads to ensure peak performance and distribution uniformity
o   replacing worn or inefficient parts with new
  
-          Encourage turf and plant health by providing only what is needed in the form of fertilizers rather than blanket applications
 
-          Encourage turf health by using bio-stimulants which encourage the plant to maximize its natural physiological responses
 
-          Turf provides a filter for runoff and absorbs heat rather than reflecting
 
-          Use of Integrated Pest Management and in the event of chemical application low-use rate products
 
-          Avoid use of hazardous materials whenever possible
 
-          Encourage walking on the course by preventing cart traffic in sensitive areas
 
-          Recycling of aluminum and green-waste where possible
 
-          Use of hybrid mower technology
  
-          Use of Tier 4 compliant equipment
 
-          Planting perennial plants rather than annuals as much as possible
 
-          Communicating with patrons on our efforts
 
Our efforts are collaborative with our clients and represent our desire to go above and beyond standard maintenance practices to get results - this results in sustainability.

Thursday, October 30, 2014

Sometimes We Get Choked Up

It isn’t often that we are surprised when we encounter something on one of our properties.  But, these encounters put pressure on us as property managers…  Onto the root of the problem…  This Juniper root was literally choking the irrigation line feeding the front entrance to Silver Lakes in Helendale, California.  A routine leak turned into a shake your head, all choked up moment. 

Saturday, October 25, 2014

The Value of Root-Pruning

When trees and turf compete, trees typically come out on top (pardon the pun).  Trees impede valuable sun light which is used by the turf to make food – a process known as photosynthesis.  Not only do trees cast shadows on turf which limit sun exposure, tree roots compete with turf roots for water and nutrients.  In this picture, there is a clear defined line between healthy and stressed turf.  The marked interface between happy and stressed turf is where the tree roots were severed with a trencher during an irrigation project at Chicopee Country Club in Massachusetts.  So, who says root-pruning isn’t beneficial?  The proof is in the picture…

Monday, October 20, 2014

Know your numbers

Strictly Business sponsored by Syngenta

Pick up some knowledge on capital expenditures in this crash course Q&A.
Helen M. Stone | October 2, 2014
 
Taking care of turf is tough enough without having to worry about any other green on the course. But knowing how to approach a budget helps superintendents get the most out of what they’ve got. We asked Steve Gano, vice president of operations at International Golf Maintenance in Champions Gate, Fla., to help clear up capital expenditures.

What’s a capital expenditure, exactly, and where would we see them on a course budget?
Capital expenditures are outlays for fixed assets – resources which have a long life. In our business a capital expenditure involves a purchase of a new fixed asset, a replacement of a fixed asset or a major overhaul which extends the useful life of a fixed asset. Fixed assets in a golf course maintenance setting include the land, maintenance equipment, the maintenance building, the irrigation system, and even the golf course features such as greens and bunkers.

Can you briefly explain capital expenditure evaluation?
Oftentimes in golf course maintenance, it is as simple as whether or not the cost to repair the equipment, considering downtime, exceeds the cost of replacement over a period of time. As an example, if a mower needs a new engine or hydraulic pump, the repair costs could exceed the equipment cost to a club over the period of a year. Another example pertains to an irrigation system. If an antiquated and unreliable irrigation system poses a risk for turf loss on greens, then at some point, the potential for lost revenue and replacement of the turf outweighs the cost of a new system.
As an alternate example, we’ve had capital expenditures created as a result of upgrading the experience at a course. A simplistic example is the purchase of a green’s roller due to the demand for quicker ball roll.


Can you give us a quick explanation of some of these terms?
Residual/salvage value: Salvage value is the market value of the fixed asset at the end of its useful life. It could be as simple as the value of the metal or the value of the independent parts of the machinery. Residual value: This refers to the amount that a leasing company believes a fleet is worth at the end of the lease term.
Tax considerations: A capital expenditure is spread over the useful life of the fixed asset, and the expense is deducted from the businesses income – resulting in less income tax.
Payback: This is the term in which a course recoups the investment in a fixed asset – return on the investment.

Can you discuss some of the decision making process when it comes to leasing vs purchasing?
For a golf course, it depends on the useful life of the machinery. Mowing equipment and utility vehicles which are used almost daily are oftentimes leased. Cultural equipment with a longer useful life, such as aerators, topdressers and vertical mowers are purchased more often. And, there are different tax considerations when deciding to lease or purchase.

The leasing company owns the equipment at the end of the lease. A superintendent should consider hour limits and residual values when leasing. And, a superintendent should consider the attractive monthly costs of a lease vs. a purchase.

Is there any other information regarding capital expenditures that would be important to a golf course superintendent? 
There is a lot to consider when making a large capital investment. Not only should a superintendent consider the cost, the method to pay for it, but also, the service capability of the vendor and/or contractor.

Thursday, October 9, 2014

Drought Conditions in California


Brandon Haynes
With the anticipation of the continuing California drought, IGM at Bear Valley Springs took proactive measures at the beginning of the season the ensure that there would be sufficient water to sustain the greens, tees and fairways. This included a wide variety of measures as well as modified programs and practices.
 
To spearhead these efforts, Brandon Haynes was given the additional responsibility of Water Wise Manager as we believe it is necessary to have a specific staff member in charge of preventing and scouting for water waste.

Drought conditions don't have to mean poor playability
Results thus far have been terrific. IGM has reduced water use by over 35% for the months of July, August and September. Nearly a 8.5 million gallons savings. And despite the droughty conditions, players have been pleased with conditions. 
 
 

Thursday, August 21, 2014

IGM Maintained Brays Island Plantation Featured in Golf Sport Magazine


Most who visit Brays Island Plantation say that it is one of the most unique and memorable places they have ever been. As the Plantation's golf maintenance partner since 2009, IGM has overseen a revival that has the golf course on par with the other high quality amenities available. Read more about this very special "Sporting Haven" at http://www.golfsportmag.com/in-this-issue/.

Friday, July 11, 2014

IGM at Savannahs Retains Audubon Certified Status


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE- July 2014

CONTACT:       Doug Bechtel, Executive Director
                        (518) 767-9051, Ext. 114
                        doug@auduboninternational.org


Savannahs Golf Club Recognized for Environmental Excellence

 
MERRITT ISLAND, FL – Savannahs Golf Club has retained its designation as a "Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary" through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, an Audubon International program.  Maurice Miyo, Golf Course Superintendent, led the effort to maintain sanctuary status on this course and is being recognized for Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International.  Savannahs Golf Club was designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary in 2001 and is one of 901 courses in the world to currently be designated as such. 

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat, and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, Mexico, and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.

"Savannahs Golf Club has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program.  They are to be commended for preserving the natural heritage of the area by protecting the local watershed and providing a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property," said Doug Bechtel, Executive Director at Audubon International.  

"To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas," explained Bechtel.  These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife & Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.  Courses go through a recertification process every two years. 

Audubon International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Troy, NY. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments with the purpose of delivering high-quality environmental education and facilitating the sustainable management of natural resources. For more information, call Audubon International at (518) 767-9051or visit www.auduboninternational.org.

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Friday, July 4, 2014

Happy Independence Day!

 
From all of us at IGM, have a safe and happy Independence Day!

Monday, May 26, 2014

Happy Memorial Day

 
At this time of rememberance we should reflect on the freedoms we share as Americans. Those freedoms are the result of the men and women of the US Armed Forces both past and present. On this day be sure to let those who have served, are serving or families of those who have paid the highest price for our country know how thankful we are for what they do for us.

Thank you from all of us at IGM.

Have a Safe and Happy Memorial Day

Friday, May 2, 2014

IGM Team Turns Out to Support Fore Life Event


LT to RT Melanie Mark, Tommy Joe Coffee,
Paula Pearson-Tucker & Francis Reeves
Regional Manager Melanie Mark and Golf Course Superintendent Tommy Joe Coffee were among those who turned out on April 25th at Inverrary Country Club in Lauderhill, Florida to support Fore Life. The event is in its 6th year and this year’s event had a fun, throwback theme. Each group was paired with a celebrity teammate with such notables as Lawrence Taylor and Carl Morris in attendance.

Melanie Mark was thrilled to come out to support the cause, “Paula Pearson-Tucker is the driving force behind Fore Life and we are proud to be a part of her efforts.” 

Fore Life, Inc. is a not for profit organization that uses the game of golf and its character building skills to empower vulnerable youth to help them survive and succeed. For more information and to find out how you can help, visit http://forelifeinc.org/.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

IGM Supports Wounded Warrior Project

The IGM Team is proud to renew its commitment to the Wounded Warrior Project. Each year along with many others, IGM provides its support to the Lake of the Woods Men's Golf Association fundraiser. This year's event is scheduled for June 14, 2014 at 8:30AM at Lake of the Woods Golf Course in Locust Grove, VA.
 
The Wounded Warrior Project is a veterans service organization that offers a variety of programs, service and events for wounded veterans. For more information and to find out how you can support this organization, visit http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/. For more information on the Lake of the Woods fundraising efforts,  please call the LOW Proshop at 540-972-2230.

Wednesday, March 26, 2014

Golf Revenue Down? Not at IGM Courses.

Ninth Hole on Championship Course at ViewPoint
While many in the golf industry are experiencing poor revenue from reduced play and lower price points, a number of IGM maintained golf courses are experiencing the opposite trend. One example can be found in the particularly poorly preforming golf market in the Southwest. ViewPoint Golf Resort in Mesa, Arizona has seen continued revenue growth in 2013/2014 and course conditions are a big part of why the course is outperforming historical numbers and also its competition.
 
IGM Regional Manager Tyler Minamyer is quick to give credit where it is due, "Chris Parsons and the rest of our team have worked really hard to produce great playing conditions and also in support of the golf operations team headed by Frank Samprone. Working together helps ensure an all around great golf experience for all of ViewPoint's customers. Increased revenue is confirmation we're on the right track."

Friday, March 7, 2014

Golf Course Maintenance Tip from the Pros

Springtime is just around the corner.  At all IGM courses, we take pride in providing quality turf with as few weeds as possible.  As part of our practices, we apply both pre-emergent herbicides and post-emergent herbicides. Timing is an important part of both programs.

Depending on the location, springtime often marks the time when pre-emergent herbicides are applied.  These products prevent weeds from emerging and detracting from a uniform stand of turf.   With any of the products, a small amount of breakthrough can occur once the growing season is in full swing.  At this point, use various post-emergent herbicides to treat those pesky weeds. 
The correct use of pre-emergent and post-emergent herbicides helps prevent your course or your lawn from becoming infested with unsightly and difficult to control weeds.

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Great Start to Operations at Rio Secco & Cascata

The IGM team assembled this week to start operations and assume the golf course maintenance responsibility for two premier golf resorts in Las Vegas, Nevada. "Rio Secco and Cascata Golf Clubs are both really special properties and we are excited to be a part of these facilities." commented Steve Gano, IGM VP of Operations. "We have a lot of work to do to help them reach their full potential but we are off to a great start."
 
Welcome to Jon Dodds! He is leading our local team as Director of Maintenance with responsibility over both courses.
 

Friday, February 14, 2014

Polo Trace Partners With IGM

In less than 5 months, International Golf Maintenance (IGM) has helped restore Polo Trace Golf Course as one of the premier daily fee courses in South Florida.  The management at Polo Trace was very optimistic about the improvements IGM proposed when the partnership started in October of 2013, but everyone is genuinely surprised by how quickly the course has responded to the new programs.
 
"Choosing IGM proved to be a smart move," explained John Bianco, General Manager at the Delray Beach, FL facility.  "We had a few other companies interested, but IGM's depth of industry knowledge and track record spoke volumes. We have already seen an improvement in our turf grass quality and their business acumen is having a positive effect on the bottom line as well."
 
"Polo Trace is one of the premier daily fee golf courses in Southeast Florida. We know the members & guests at Polo Trace have high expectations and we look forward to continuing the improvement of the playing conditions at the course", said Greg Plotner, Executive Vice President for IGM. "We are pleased and honored to have been selected by Polo Trace Golf Club and look forward to a long relationship."
 
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL GOLF MAINTENANCE 
Now entering its 20th year of operations, IGM prides itself on providing industry leading maintenance services to golf courses from California to Massachusetts.  Working on a fixed-fee basis, IGM can guarantee delivery of a quality golf product within a specified budget. By providing every property with a menu of course condition options, the operator is able to choose those services that best suit their competitive and budgetary needs. For more information, go to www.igminc.com
 
ABOUT POLO TRACE GOLF CLUB 
Polo Trace Golf Club is one of South Florida's premier golf courses. This links-style course plays over 7,000 yards, featuring new Champion Turf greens and lush rolling fairways providing Polo Trace customers with the ultimate golfing experience.
 
Located in beautiful Delray Beach, Florida, Polo Trace Golf Club is just minutes from historic downtown Delray Beach. Palm Beach International Airport is only fifteen minutes away providing easy access for out of town guests.

Friday, January 24, 2014

IGM & Lauderhill GC Team Up for Success

When the city of Lauderhill, FL wanted to make improvements to its municipally owned golf course, they turned to the experts at IGM for help.
 
”We have a great short course, perfect for seniors and juniors looking to have fun or work on their game,” explained Scott Newton, Assistant Director for the City Parks Department. “We needed  some help to ensure our residents and area golfers would feel like they were getting a good value at Lauderhill. The changes in the conditions since IGM came in have been amazing. Our rounds are up and we are hearing lots of positive feedback from our guests.”

Greg Plotner, Executive Vice President for IGM is excited about the partnership, “Lauderhill’s golf course is an example of how a golf facility can be successful without chasing the 7,000 yard championship mentality. We know the key for our success at the course is to make sure the players have a great time in a relaxed atmosphere. We got in here and went right to work and it has been a smooth transformation. We are proud to be a part of the community and we look forward to a long relationship with the City of Lauderhill.”

“We are really happy with the progress thus far,” said Newton. “More people need to come out and see this place. It is a hidden jewel.”
 
 

Friday, January 10, 2014

End of the Day





Even in the dead of winter when its freezing cold outside, its important to take a moment to enjoy your surroundings and reflect on a hard day at work. IGM's Mike Fontaine captured this photo of Simba admiring a gorgeous sunset at The Ledges Golf Club in South Hadley, Massachusetts.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Happy New Year

May 2014 bring for you happiness, success and be filled with peace, hope & togetherness of your family & friends... Wishing you a... HAPPY NEW YEAR!