HomeMy WebLinkAbout; Municipal Golf Course Turf and Pest Mgmnt Plan; Turf and Pest Management Plan Municipal Golf Course; 2004-08-17CITY OF CARLSBAD
MUNICIPAL GOLF COURSE
TURF AND PEST
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Prepared for:
CITY OF CARLSBAD
RECREATION DEPARTMENT
1200 Carisbad Village Drive
Carisbad, Califomia 92008
Contact: John Cahill
Telephone: 760-602-2726
Prepared by:
P&D ENVIRONMENTAL
A Division of P&D Consultants, Inc.
8954 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 610
San Diego, Califomia 92108
Contact: Betty Dehoney
Telephone: 619-291-1475
August 17, 2004
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
2.0 PLAN OBJECTTVES 2
3.0 IPM STRUCTURE 2
4.0 AREA DEFINITION 3
4.1 Turfgrass Areas 4
4.2 Non-Turfgrass Areas 4
4.2.1 Bunkers 4
4.2.2 Aquatic Areas 4
4.2.3 Riparian Buffer Zones 6
5.0 TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES '. 7
5.1 Mowing 8
5.2 Fertilization. 9
5.2.1 Soil/Tissue Nutrient Testing 9
5.2.2 Turfgrass Nutrient Requirements 10
5.2.3 Fertilizer Treatment Areas 11
5.2.4 Fertihzer Apphcation 11
5.2.5 Fertihzer Storage 12
5.2.6 Fertihzer Documentation 12
5.3 Irrigation ..12
5.3.1 Water Source 13
5.3.2 Irrigation System 13
5.3.3 Water Conservation 13
5.4 Aeration.-. 14
5.5 Thatch Management 14
5.6 Topdressing ....14
5.7 Overseeding 15
5.8 Sod Replacement 15
6.0 TREE MANAGEMENT
6.1 Tree Selection 15
6.2 Planting Locations 15
6.3 Tree Planting 15
6.4 Tree Maintenance '. 16
6.5 Tree Removal 16
7.0 COMPOSTING/ORGANIC MATERIAL MANAGEMENT 16
8.0 PEST POPULATION DEFINITION 16
9.0 PEST THRESHOLD LEVEL 16
10.0 PEST MONITORING AND PEST CONTROL ....17
10A Scouting. 17
10.2 Fungal Disease 19
10.2.1 Dollar Spot 19
10.2.2 Fairy Ring 20
10.2.3 Fusarium Blight : 21.
10.2.4 Leaf Spot : 21
10.2.5 iPythium Blight ..22
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10.2.6 Rhizoctonia Blight .:;.;i::.. 22
10.2.7 Spring Dead Spot 23
10.2.8 Summer Patch .: 23
10.3 Weeds : 24
10.3.1 Cahfomia burclover 24
10.3.2 Black medic , : 24
10.3.3 Knotweed 25
10.3.4 Spurges 25
10.3.5 White Clover : 26
10.3.6 Creeping woodsoirel : 26
10.3.7 Dandelion 26
10.3.8 English Daisy 27
10.3.9 Buckhom plantains 27
10.3.10 Broadleaf plantains 27
10.3.11 Green kyllinga 28
10.3.12 Nutsedge : 28
10.4 hisects 28
10.4.1 Armyworms/Cutworms 29
10.4.2 Black ttirfgrass 29
10.4.3 Lawn moth/Sod webworms : 29
10.4.4 Southem Chinch Bug 30
10.4.5 White gmbs 30
10.5 Vertebrates 30
10.5.1 Moles : 30
10.5.2 Pocket Gophers 31
11.0 PESTICIDES
Pesticide Definition 32
Pesticide Use Determination : 32
Notification Requirement 33
Projected Pesticide Use 33
Pesticide Storage 33
Pesticide Mixing -. .34
Pesticide Application 34
Signage...: 34
Clean Up and Disposal 35
Pesticide Documentation 35
12.0 REFERENCES : 36
List of Tables
Table 1 Turfgrass Area Definitions and Maintenance Requirements 4
Table 2 Species for Playable Touch Native Riparian Buffer 7
Table 3 Species for Nonplayable Rough Native Riparian Buffer 8
Table 4 Summary of Potential Pests .....17
Table 5 Pest Damage Thresholds 18
Table 6 Pesticide Application Areas and Typical Application Frequencies 33
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11 .2
11 .3
11 .4
11 .5
11 .6
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11 .8
11, .9
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
This Turf and Pest Management Plan (TPMP) has been prepared to identify turf and
pesticide management practices for the proposed Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course and to
satisfy a portion of the permit processing requirements of the Califomia Coastal
Commission.
The City of Carlsbad recognizes the importance of sound environmental stewardship, and
is committed to optimizing its golf course management practices to protect the
en-vironment within, and surrounding, the golf course. This includes minimizing the use
of fertilizers, irrigation, and pesticides to the extent practicable.
This TPMP is based upon an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) sttategy. An IPM
program is a multidisciplinary, ecologically-based pest management system that uses all
available methods to keep pests at acceptable levels while minimizing the effect on
people, the environment, and the turf. IPM uses systematic, disciplined, and documented
cultural practices as a first line of defense for pest control. Examples of cultural methods
.to control pests include optimizing turf health through turf management practices (e.g.,
mowing, fertilization, irrigation, aeration, and thatch management) to enhance natural
plant resistance to pest infestation, optimizing habitats for beneficial species, and
minimizing turf damage from routine golf course operations. On occasion, when cultural
practices are not fiilly effective at controlling pests, and defined pest damage thresholds
have been exceeded, the use of pesticides to manage pest damage may be required.
The following document defines the proposed turfgrass, non-turfgrass, and aquatic
management areas of the golf course; cultural practices, pests of concem, pest monitoring
sttategy, pest damage threshold levels that whett exceeded require action; and the proper
action to be taken under these circumstances.
The Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course Superintendent (Superintendent) is a primary factor
in the success of the implementation of this plan. The Superintendent assumes
responsibility for managing and maintaining golf course property, including the golf
course. The TPMP will identify the overall mrf and pest management philosophy to be
implemented at the golf course, while still allowing for the professional judgment of the
Superintendent.
Cityof Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
No changes shall be made to this piaii without ah arnendment to the coastal development
permit unless a determination is made by the Executive Director of the Califomia Coastal
Commission (CCC) that no amendment is legally required.
2.0 PLAN OBJECTIVES
The objectives of the TPMP for the Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course include:
^ • Minimize the potential hazard to human health and the environment; I
• Minimize fertihzer use, water use, and chemical pest conttol to the maximum
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extent feasible to avoid impact to native upland habitat, wetland habitat, riparian
areas, and water quality;
H • Avoid planting vegetation that is likely to invade downstteam or adjacent habitat
areas and control invasive species that inadvertently occur in the landscaped areas
m so they do not spread into habitat areas.
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o Use effective monitoring to enable selective control of pest populations;
• Control operating costs;
• Optimize playing conditions on the golf course;
• Sustain high turfgrass quahty.
3.0 IPM STRUCTURE
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As noted ,above, the TPMP is based upon the principles of IPM, which focuses on the
1^ selective targeting of plant pathogens, weeds, and insects that threaten the agronomic
health of the turfgrass on the golf course. The strategy ofthe IPM is as follows:
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• Maintain vigorous turf health through maintenance practices to optimize pest
m tolerance (See Section 5.0).
Define areas requiring management and the relative maintenance intensity
associated with each area (See Section 4.0).
• Provide management guidance for tree species (See Section 6.0).
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
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• Encourage composting onsite (See Section 7,0).
• Identify pests likely to be encountered (See Section 8.0).
• Establish threshold levels for each pest, which, when exceeded, triggers corrective
action (See Section 9.0).
o Scout and monitor for the presence of pests (See Section 10.1).
• Implement sequential corrective action when pest threshold levels have been
exceeded. The first course of action will be to adjust maintenance practices.
Second, biological controls will be used where applicable. In the event that these
two measures do not correct the problem, minimum amounts of selective
chemical agents may be applied in a highly-targeted fashion (See Sections 10 and
11).
e Document all scouting and monitoring observations, tteatments, and treatment
resnlts (See Section 10.1 and 11.10).
4.0 AREA DEFINITION
The proposed Carisbad Municipal Golf Course is an 18-hole championship golf course in
the northwestem quadrant of the City of Carisbad. Palomar Airport Road forms the
southem boundary ofthe site. Hidden Valley Road forms the westem boundary, and the
southem edge of Faraday Avenue forms the northem boundary. In addition to the golf
course, the property includes a clubhouse, maintenance facility, driving range, conference
center, and pads for industrial/golf related uses.
The golf course will incorporate natural features of the landscape into the golf course
design. From the outset, the golf course was designed to minimize impacts to the
sensitive resources on the project site.
The golf course includes both managed and non-managed areas, including mrfgrass and
non-turfgrass areas, which are described below.
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
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4.1 Turfgrass Areas
Turfgrass areas include the putting greens, the tees, the fairways, and the playable rough.
Bentgrass -will be used for the putting greens. Bermudagrass will be used for the teeing
areas, fairways, and some portions of the playable rough. Fescue will also be used in the
playable rough. Table 1 summarizes the turfgrass areas and the generalized maintenance
requirements for each area. Additionally, detailed turfgrass management practices are
discussed in Section 5.0.
Table 1
Turfgrass Area Definitions and Maintenance Requirements
Area Fertilizer Irrigation Mowing Cultural 1
Requirements Requirements Frequency Frequency |
Greens Medium . Mediuni High High 1
Tee Surface Medium Medium Medium Medium
Fairway Low Medium Medium Medium
Playable Rough^'^ N/A • N/A Very low Very low
Nonplayable
Rough^'^
N/A N/A N/A Very low
Note: (1) Minimal fertilization or irrigation will occur in the playable rough.
(2) No maintenance -will occur -within the nonplayable rough.
4.2 Non-Turfgrass Areas
Non-turfgrass areas consist of bunkers, aquatic areas, buffer zones, and natural areas.
4.2.1 Bunkers
Fairway and green-side bunkers will be located throughout the course. Bunker sand is
maintained at a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Bunker management consists primarily of raking
and smoothing the sand contained in the bunkers, cleaning, and hand weeding.
Occasional trimming of the bunker edge with a mechanical edger is required to maintain
the original edge of the bunker. No chemicals will be applied to the sand bunkers.
4.2.2 Aquatic Areas
Proposed aquatic areas at the golf course include three man-made water features (ponds)
and wetland mitigation areas.
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
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Water Features
Water features at the golf course include two ponds connected by a waterfall feature
adjacent to the putting green at Hole 7 and the tee area at Hole 2. An additional pond is
proposed adjacent to the tee area at Hole 18.
Management of the water features primarily involves identifying aquatic weeds and
detrimental algae conditions. The prevention of aquatic weed problems and algae blooms
begins with the control of soil erosion and nutrient input from the watershed. Monitoring
of the ponds shall include periodic assessment of the following: (1) biological oxygen
demand, (2) source of nutrient loading, (3) depth, (4) total phosphoms and nitrogen, (5)
turbidity, (6) dissolved oxygen, (7) and pH.
The control of aquatic weeds will emphasize non-chemical means. Preferred measures
for aquatic weed control include pulling, skimming, dragging, underwater cutting, light
attenuation, artificial circulation, and the use of biological agents. When these measures
do not remedy the problem, the use of chemicals may be considered. Consultation with
an aquatic specialist to identify the preferred aquatic weed conttol is required. If the
Superintendent, in conjunctiori with the aquatic specialist, determines that the use of
pesticides is necessary, the measures discussed in Section 11.0 of this document will be
implemented.
Wetlands/Riparian Habitat
Riparian habitat is located within the golf course. Additionally, wetland mitigation areas
are located within the golf course and will be adjacent to areas of play. These riparian
areas will be clearly marked as an "out of bounds" zone. The margins of the wetlands
will be planted with plant species that discourage intmsion such as wild rose, blackberry,
and southwestem spiny msh, as further discussed in Section 4.2.3. Barrier fencing will
be used in key areas to discourage unauthorized entry. In many areas, a combination of
measures is required to adequately protect the riparian habitat. Signage including
"Environmentally Sensitive Area: Do Not.Enter," "Waming: Rattlesnakes," and "Poison
Oak" will also be used to discourage entry into restricted areas. Public education will
also be provided by golf course visitors to inform them of sensitive resources on the site.
Periodic removal of exotic species may occur within riparian habitat as part of the
wetland mitigation plan. The removal of exotic species would be coordinated by the City
Cityof Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
• Turf and Pest Management Plan
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of Carlsbad, and will be supervised by a biologist: Otherwise, golf course staff will not
conduct maintenance in the riparian areas.
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4.2.3 Riparian Buffer Zones
A native buffer will be created along the perimeter of the stream course. The objective of
the buffer is to provide a transition from the nonnative species mix used on thc fairways
to the golf rough. This transition will reduce the potential of encroachment of species
from the manicured golf course to the adjacent riparian habitat. The buffer includes two
separate planting mixes: playable rough and nonplayable rough.
Playable Rough
The playable rough will contain an open vegetation type, predominantly native grass
species. Table 2 summarizes the proposed species for the playable rough native riparian
buffer. This area has been designed to capture the first flush mnoff of 0.5 inches. The
playable rough buffer adjacent to the riparian habitat will not be irrigated or managed
through supplemental application of fertilizer. Periodic mowing will occur within this
area.
Nonplayable Rough
A 50-foot buffer has been established from the edge of the playable course (playable
rough) to the edge of the proposed wetland mitigation site. This area is defmed as the
nonplayable rough, and will be planted with a mix of native species. The nonplayable
rough will support more dense vegetation and be generally less than 3 feet in height.
This area has also been designed to capture the first-flush mnoff of 0.5 inch.
Physical barriers (split-rail fence, "poison oak" signage, and "rattlesnake" signage) will
be used to discourage ingress into the sensitive resource areas. Barrier plantings
(including Califomia rose and Califomia blackberry) will be used in the buffer to further
reinforce the out-of-bound areas. Table 3 presents a list of species to be in the
nonplayable rough native riparian buffer. Many of the species already exist on the
project site.
Periodic removal of exotic species may occur within the nonplayable rough as part ofthe
mitigation plan. This removal of exotic species would be coordinated by the City of
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
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Carlsbad, and will be supervised by a biologist.. Otherwise, golf course staff will not
conduct maintenance in the riparian areas. The nonplayable rough buffer will not be
mowed, irrigated, or otherwise managed through supplemental application of fertilizer.
Table 2
Species for Playable Rough Native Riparian Buffer
Scientific Name Common Name
Achnatherum coronatum needlegrass
Anemopsis califomica yerba mansa*
Bloomeria crocea San Diego goldenstar*
Bothriochloa barbinodis cane bluestem*
Calochortus splendens splendid mariposa lily*
Cardionema ramosissimum sandmat*
\ Centaurium venustum canchalagua*
Dichelostemma capitatum wild hyacinth*
Dichondra occidentalis westem dichondra*
Distichlis spicata saltgrass*
Dodecatheon clevelandii shooting star*
Elymus glaucus blue wild-rye
Hordeum brachyantherum Califomia barley
Horkelia cuneata wedgeleaf horkelia
Melica frutescens tall melic
Melica imperfecta small-flowered melic grass
Nassella cernua nodding needlegrass
Nassella lepida foothill needlegrass* |
Nassella puichra. purple needlegrass j
Phalaris angusta timothy |
Saliva columbariae chia* j
Selaginella cinerascens ashy spikemoss* j
Sidalcea malvaeflora checkerbloom* j
Sisyrinchium Bellum Blue-eyed grass j
Note: Species recommended by USFWS, February 12, 2000.
* Species onsite per environmental impact report.
5.0 TURFGRASS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
The primary objective ofthe turf and pest management program is to optimize turfgrass
vigor using sound cultural practices as a means of preventing and/or minimizing pest
infestation. The primary cultural practices of turfgrass management at the Carlsbad
Municipal Golf Course will include mowing, fertilization, and irrigation. Secondary
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
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cultural practices include aeration; thatch management, topdressing, overseeding, and sod
replacement.
Table 3
Species for Nonplayable Rough Native Riparian Buffer (1)
Scientific Name Common Name
Adolphia califomica Califomia spinebush* 1
Anemopsis califomica yerba mansa* 1
Iva hayesiana San Diego marsh-elder
Juncus acutus ssp. leopoldii spiny msh*
Lycium califomicum Cahfomia boxthom
1 Opuntia littoralis shore cactus*
Opuntia prolifera cholla*
rRhamnus crocea spiny redberry* j
Rhus trilobata basketbush j
Ribes speciosum fuchsia-flo-vvered gooseberry |
Rosa califomica Califomia rose*
Rubus ursinus Cahfomia blackberry
Yucca schidigera Mojave yucca*
Note: Species recommended by USF'WS, February 12, 2000.
* Species onsite per environmental impact report.
5.1 Mowing
Mowing will be performed on an as-needed basis and the frequency of mowing is area-
dependent. Lightweight mowing equipment will be used as often as practical to
minimize turf compactions and mowing heights will be adjusted for individual areas
based on seasonal conditions.
Bentgrass will be used for the putting greens. Mowing will occur six to seven days a
week and will consist of a mowing pattem that altemates in each of four directions.
Mowing height for the greens will typically be 0.10 to 0.16 inches (1/10 to 3/16 inches).
Grass clippings will be removed from the surface.
Bermudagrass will be used in the teeing areas. In these areas, mowing will occur two to
five times per week and will consist of a mowing pattem in each of two to four
perpendicular directions, unless the individual tees are too small to support this pattem.
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Turf and Pest Management Plan
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Mowing height for the tees will typically be 0.25 to 0.5 inches (5/16 to 5/8 inch). Grass
clippings will be removed from the surface.
Bermudagrass will also be used in the fairways. Mowing will occur three to five times
per week and will consist of a multidirectional mowing pattem. Mowing heights for the
fairways will typically be 0.44 to 0.63 inches (7/16 to 5/8 inches). Grass clippings will
be retumed to the surface.
Bermudagrass and a fescue mix will be used for the primary rough. In these areas,
mowing will occur one to two times per week. For those areas where the primary rough
is near sensitive riparian habitats, a mix of native grasses, as noted in Table 2, will be
used. Mowing heights for the primary rough will be 1.5 to 4.0 inches. Grass clippings
from the primary rough will be retumed to the fairway surface.
5.2 Fertilization
The objective of the fertilizer program is to provide optimal nutrient availability to the
turf while simultaneously avoiding the application of excess nutrients to avoid weed
infestation, disease development, and nutrient mnoff/leaching. Accordingly, this plan
emphasizes a balance between optimizing turf vigor and preventing nutrient
mnoffyieaching. The use of natural based fertilizers will be emphasized in this program.
The Superintendent will use slo-w-release, natural based fertilizers to the extent
practicable
5.2.1 Soil/Tissue Nutrient Testing
Testing for nutrient composition provides valuable information that allows for the
development of a strategic fertihzation plan and provides insight into the effects of
existing cultural practices. Tissue nutrient testing provides information relative to
nutrient uptake and plant-available nutrients. At the discretion of the Superintendent,
soil/tissue testing will be performed on select areas of the golf course to baseline
information for the development of fertihzation programs. The following procedures,
which have been identified by the - North - Carolina - State University Turfgrass
Environmental Research and Education Center shall be followed for soil sampling:
• Wait a minimum of 3 to 4 weeks after the last fertilization before sampling.
• Be sure to submit a sample for analysis that tmly represents the area.
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course
Turf and Pest Management Plan
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• Ensure the equipment used to take the saihple is clean and free of contaminants,
and clean the equipment between samples.
• Sample at a uniform depth - 2 inches for greens and tees.
• Take 15 to 20 soil cores from each area being tested, using a one inch diameter
soil probe and thoroughly mix them in a plastic container of paper bag. Do not
use a metal bucket, which may affect results.
5.2.2 Turfgrass Nutrient Requirements
The major nutrients for turfgrass health are nitrogen, phosphoms, and potassium (NPK).
Minor nutrients include calcium, sulfiir, iron, boron, copper, manganese, magnesium, and
zinc. Healthy turf is more capable of resisting weeds and requires less application of
herbicides.
The availability of nutrients of mrfgrass is influenced by the pH of the soil. Therefore,
the maintenance of the appropriate pH is an important component of the fertilization
program.
Nitrogen
The management of nitrogen levels is critical due to the high turf demand for this nutrient
and the potential for excess nitrogen to enter into surface water. As a result, the amount
of nittogen applied to turfgrass will be the minimum amount necessary to promote turf
vigor. In general, nitrogen rates and formulations will be determined based on turf
conditions, soil/tissue test results, season, weather, and other information. Turf and
climate conditions can also influence the rate of application.
Phosphorus
Turf requirements for phosphoms are relatively low, and phosphoms is relatively
immobile in soil. As a result, application rates tend to be correspondingly low. This
minimizes the possibility of leaching or storm water mnoff carrying residual phosphoms
mnoff
City of Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course 10
Turf and Pest Management Plan
Potassium
Turf requirements for potassium are intermediate to high in relation to nitrogen and
phosphoms levels. Although applied to maximize efficiency of uptake, potassium does
not pose the same extent of environmental risk as nitrogen or potassium. Proper levels of
potassium are an important component of plant disease resistance and contribute to the
ability of turf to withstand wear and traffic.
Minor Nutrients
In general, turfgrass requirements for the minor nutrients-calcium, sulfur, iron, boron,
copper, manganese, magnesium, and zinc-are substantially lower than those for nitrogen,
phosphoms, and potassium. Minor nutrients are essential for optimal turf performance,
and are typically available in the soil in sufficient quantities to support health turf
Ho-vyever, when turf conditions or soil/tissue testing results indicate deficiencies, these
nutrients may be applied at the discretion of the Superintendent.
pH
Maintenance of the proper soil pH is essential in optimizing the availability of nutrients,
and is also important in minimizing overall turfgrass stress. When the soil pH requires
adjustment to a more alkaline pH, lime will be added until the targeted pH is obtained.
When soil requires adjustment to a more acidic pH, ammonium sulfate will be added
until the targeted pH is obtained.
5.2.3 Fertilizer Treatment Areas
The rate and frequency of fertilizer application is dependent upon the area of the course.
Fertilizer application is most frequent on greens and tees, with less frequent application
made to fairways. Minimal fertilizer will be applied to the playable rough under this
plan. No fertilizer will be used on the nonplayable rough.
5.2.4 Fertilizer Application - . -
Fertilizer application equipment will be calibrated prior to use to ensure the proper rate of
application. Fertilizer will not be apphed if heavy rain is forecast following the potential
application event. Quickly-available sources will not be applied before irrigation.
City of Carlsbad Mumcipal Golf Course 11
Turf and Pest Management Plan
Additionally, care shall be taken to ensure fertilizers are not apphed to paved surfaces,
such as cart paths or parking areas.
5.2.5 Fertilizer Storage
All fertilizers will be maintained in a dedicated moisture-free, well-ventilated, approved
storage area.
5.2.6 Fertilizer Documentation
All fertilizer application will be documented on a fertilizer application form. The
application forms will be retained by the Superintendent. Information recorded on the
fertilizer application forms will include the following:
• Date of application;
» Location of apphcation;
• Total area treated;
• Formulation of fertilizer(s);
• Rate of application;
• Total quantity of product applied;
• Climate information (temperature, wind, humidity, precipitation prior to and after
application for 24 hours);
• Name of the applicator(s).
5.3 Irrigation
The distribution of adequate water onto turf via irrigation without over-watering is
essential to mrf health. In addition to providing optimal moisture levels for turf,
irrigation practices are designed to conserve water whenever possible.
A uniform application of water is extremely important for maximum efficiency because it
is important to avoid wet and dry spots. Turf is weakened in wet spots because of poor
soil aeration and root disease that can result in the invasion of shallow-rooted weeds such
as crabgrass, annual bluegrass, and oxalis. Runoff from over irrigated areas is wastefiil
and results in accumulation of water in low parts of the turfgrass area. In contrast, dry
sites will be characterized by turf of poor color, density, and uniformity that allows the
invasion of deep-rooted weeds such as dandelions, plantains, clover, and knotweed.
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Turf and Pest Management Plan
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Proper timing and an adequate amount of irrigation are necessary for optimum growth,
maximum quality, and best appearance of the respective turfgrass species. Warm-season
turfgrass species, such as Bermudagrass, require less irrigation than cool-season turfgrass
species, such as fescue.
5.3.1 Water Source
The golf course will use both reclaimed water and potable water. The golf course
fairways will be irrigated with reclaimed water. A dual irrigation system (reclaimed and
potable water) will be used for all tees and greens. Reclaimed water will provide
approximately 73% of the irrigation water expected to be used at the golf course. Both
reclaimed and potable water for the golf course is provided by Carlsbad Municipal Water
District.
5.3.2 Irrigation System
The irrigation system shall conform to the regulations for constmction of irrigation water
systems as identified by the Carlsbad Mumcipal Water District. The irrigation system for
the golf course is primarily designed for, recycled water. The irrigation system will be
periodically tested to ensure it operates at an acceptable level of uniformity.
5.3.3 Water Conservation
The irrigation program will be designed to prevent over-application of water as means of
optimizing turf vigor and conserving water. The areas requiring the most frequent
irrigation will be the greens, tees, and fairways. No irrigation will occur in the playable
and nonplayable rough areas that are adjacent to the riparian mitigation areas.
Irrigation with reclaimed water will generally occur between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and
6:00 a.m. This will reduce the amount of water that is lost due to daytime evaporation.
Spray heads will be adjusted to eliminate overspray.
The primary means of determining turfgrass irrigation requirements will be the daily
observations and monitoring by the Superintendent and staff Data obtamed from a
weather station located near the golf course will be evaluated by the Superintendent to
assist in this decision-making process. Altematively, the irrigation schedule may
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incorporate the use of the California Irrigation Management Information System
(CMIS).
Turfgrass will be irrigated to a depth just below the root zone. In the event that mnoff is
observed on the course, the irrigation system will be shut off until the water has soaked
into the soil. Sloped areas, compacted soils, and sandy soils will need to be irrigated in short,
frequent intervals.
5.4 Aeration
Aeration is the practice'of removing soil cores from turf and is performed to reduce turf
compaction. This practice enhances the movement of air, water, and nutrients in the soil
and is a useful technique to manage thatch layers.
Aeration will occur primarily on the greens, and to a lesser extent on the tee surfaces.
Aeration will occur at the discretion of the Superintendent, and is typically performed
during periods of active turf growth.
5.5 Thatch Management
Thatch is a layer of organic debris and the roots, crowns, and stems of grass that exist
between the soil and the turf canopy. In the absence of cultural management, this layer
between the soil .and turf canopy becomes thicker over time. Management of thatch is
particularly important on greens and consists primarily of aeration and topdressing
practices. Thatch management practices can include hollow core aeration, solid core
aeration, vertical mowing, and verticutting.
5.6 Topdressing
Topdressing application typically occurs following aeration. The practice of topdressing
consists ofthe application ofa layer of sand to greens and is used to assist in thatch layer
management and to provide a smooth and firm playing surface. Following the
application of sand, the sand is lightly bmshed into the turf surface.
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5.7 Overseeding
Overseeding is the selective application of turfgrass seed to improve areas of turf
depletion and to bolster turf density. Overseeding will be performed at the discretion of
the Superintendent.
5.8 Sod Replacement
Occasionally, problems with diseased, damaged, or weedy turf cannot be remedied by
cultural practices. Under these circumstances, affected areas of turf will be removed, and
fresh turf obtained to replace the removed section.
6.0 TREE MANAGEMENT
The Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course incorporates existing trees within the design of the
golf course, and includes the planting of additional species. Trees will require routine
maintenance (e.g., trimming), and the general management practices for trees are
described below.
6.1 Tree Selection
The landscape plan prepared for the Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course incorporates some
of the existing trees at the proposed site. Additional ttees to be planted within the golf
course include modell pine, white alder, red ironbark, Califomia sycamore, Torrey pine,
and coast live oak.
6.2 Planting Locations
Trees are concentrated primarily along the cart path, adjacent to roadways, and also along
the westem boundary of the practice range.
6.3 Tree Planting
Trees will be planted in planting holes appropriate for the root ball/root mass and planting
holes will be backfilled with native materials. The planting areas will be mulched and
receive irrigation, as required, to become fully established. Irrigation requirements for
specimen oak trees will be modified so that only half-circle irrigation is used.
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I 6.4 Tree Maintenance
Trees will be routinely monitored for overall health, influence on playing characteristics,
the presence of insects and diseases, influence on surrounding turf and native plantings,
and hazard potential. In general, insect and disease pests afe tolerated. Established trees
do not require supplemental watering, except in situations of extteme drought.
6.5 Tree Removal
Factors that will determine if a tree is a candidate for removal (e.g., disease, age, hazard)
will be evaluated by the Superintendent in consultation with a certified arborist. Upon
determination that tree removal is necessary, every effort should be made to remove the
trees during the non nesting season, as these trees may act as a nesting habitat for
migratory birds.
In the event that the removal must occur within the breeding season for migratory birds
or raptors (January 15 - August 31), a migratory bird survey shall be performed by a
quahfied biologist. If nests are found within the tree proposed for removal, the removal
must be postponed until the nest is abandoned.
7.0 COMPOSTING/ORGANIC MATERIAL MANAGEMENT
Where appropriate, grass clippings and/or aeration cores will be spread onsite as mulch.
Materials will be spread out in a thin layer to prevent damage to the underlying plants and
will not be applied in the riparian buffer zones.
8.0 PEST POPULATION DEFINITION
Based upon information from the University of Califomia Statewide Integrated Pest
Management Program, a summary of potential fungal diseases, weeds, insects, and
vertebrates that may impact the turfgrass at the Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course are
simimarized in Table 4.
9.0 PEST THRESHOLD LEVEL
The damage threshold level for fungal diseases, weeds, and insects are shown in Table 5.
Damage threshold level is defined as the number of pests detected within a specific area
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Turf and Pest Management Plan
that may lead to corrective action to reduce the density of the specific pest below the
damage threshold level.
10.0 PEST MONITORING AND PEST CONTROL
10.1 Scouting
Scouting is the regular monitoring of all turf areas on a programmed basis. Regular
monitoring provides an excellent record of pest population and their resulting damage,
which can be used for future planning and program development.
Table 4
Summary of Potential Pests
Category Pest
Fungal Disease Dollar Spot Fungal Disease
Fairy Ring
Fungal Disease
Fusarium Blight
Fungal Disease
Leaf Spot
Fungal Disease
Pythium Blight
Fungal Disease
Rhizoctonia Blight
Fungal Disease
Spring Dead Spot
Fungal Disease
Summer Patch
Weeds and Sedges Califomia burclover Weeds and Sedges
Black medic
Weeds and Sedges
Common knotweed
Weeds and Sedges
Spurges
Weeds and Sedges
White clover
Weeds and Sedges
Creeping woodsorrel
Weeds and Sedges
Dandelion
Weeds and Sedges
Enghsh daisy
Weeds and Sedges
Buckhom plantains
Weeds and Sedges
Broadleaf plantains
Weeds and Sedges
Green kyllinga
Weeds and Sedges
Nutsedge
Insects Armyworms/Cutworms
Black turfgrass
La-wn moths/Sod Webworms
Southem Chinch Bug
"White gmbs
May and June beetles
Vertebrates Moles
Pocket Gophers
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17
The goal is early observation of a turfgrass abnormality and/or change. All golf course
maintenance staff will be trained in the golf course IPM to monitor for evidence of pest
infestation. The intensity and frequency of monitoring will be adjusted based on the
likelihood or presence of pest infestation or in situational/site specific instances. The
greens and tees will require the most monitoring, with the fairway and rough areas
monitored less frequent.
All monitoring observations of potential pest infestations shall be recorded and reported
directly to the Superintendent. Monitoring summaries will include, at a minimum, the
following information:
Monitoring date
Weather condition
Soil temperatures
General comments on the turfs overall condition
Reporting shall include both normal and abnormal turfgrass observations.
Table 5
Pest Damage Thresholds
Pest Greens Tees Fainvays Rough^'^
Fungal Diseases 2% affected 10% affected 20-25%
affected
N/A
Weeds 1/1,000 ft' 1-5/1,000 ft' 5-10/1000 ft' N/A
Armyworms/ Cutworms 5 larvae/ ft^ 5 larvae/ ft' 5 larvae/ ft' N/A
Black turfgrass Over 75 larvae/
ft'
Over 75
larvae/ ft'
Over 75
larvae/ ft'
N/A
Lawn Moth/ Sod
Webworms
5 larvae/ yard'
on stressed
greens
5 to 10 larvae/
yard'
15 larvae/yard' N/A
Southern Chinch Bug 135/ yard' 135/yard' 13 5/yard' N/A
White grubs (imjoiature
chafers and June
beetles)
1 gmb/ft' 2-4 grubs/ ft' 4-6 grubs/ ft' N/A
Vertebrates Evidence of
mounding
or tunneling
Evidence of
mounding
or tunneling
Evidence of
mounding
or tunneling
Evidence of
mounding
or tunneling
Note: (1) No pesticides will be apphed in the rough.
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When turfgrass abnormalities are noted, the next step is to diagnose the specific cause,
detennine the threshold, and then develop a pest control strategy. The pest control
strategy consists of using cultural practices as the first line of defense. Pest conttol
strategy will be developed on a case-by-case basis with all potential control options given
consideration, and an emphasis placed upon cultural practices. In some instances, when
cultural practices have not achieved the desired results, and the long-term health of the
turf is at stake, it will be appropriate to use chemical measures (pesticides). The decision
to implement chemical pest control measures beyond cultural, biological, or mechanical
practices will be based upon the review of relevant safety, scientific, economic, and
environmental information.
Based upon permitting requirements from the Cahfomia Coastal Commission (CCC),
notification shall be provided to the Executive Director of the CCC prior to the use of
pesticides strategies. Further details regarding this notification are provided in Section
11.3 of this document.
10.2 Fungal Disease
Fungal diseases represents the most serious and consistent threat to turfgrass health, and
is of concem primarily on the greens and tees. Greens and tees will be inspected
regularly for symptoms of fungal disease. The primary means of identifying fungal
diseases will be diagnosis by the Superintendent. Soil samples will also be taken in
affected areas, since, in some instances, symptoms consistent with fungal disease may
have altemate causes (nutrient deficiency, insects). "When uncertainty regarding potential
fimgal diseases is encountered, samples will be sent to a plant pathology lab for
confirmation of the presence of fungal pathogens.
An important aspect of preventing the development of fungal disease is the optimization
of turf vigor through routine cultural practices. Specific cultural practices will be used to
minimize the potential for fungal diseases, which are described below. Several factors,
including season, weather, and turf health contribute to the determination whether
fungicide treatment may or may not be necessary. Fungicide treatment is only to be
considered after all cultural practices have been exhausted, and the long-term health of
the turf is at stake. Any application of fungicide will follow the procedures identified in
Section 11 ofthis TPMP. .
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A description of conditions favoring disease development, symptoms of disease, and
specific cultural control for each type of fungal disease follows. Additional information
on these fungal diseases is available through the University of Califomia Statewide
Integrated Pest Management Program webpage at http://ucipm.ucdavis.edu/.
10.2.1 Dollar Spot
Disease Conditions: Moderate temperatures (60° to 80°F), excess moisture or water
stress; fog; thatch; survives in soil as hard, dark stmctures. Most common during the
spring and fall months.
Disease Symptoms: Small, circular spots from 1-5 inches in diameter. Spots may merge
to form large, irregular areas. Leaves appear watersoaked, then brown, often exhibiting a
reddish band across the leaf; fme, white cobwebby threads may be seen in early moming
Cultural Controls: Turfgrass deficient in nitrogen tends to develop more dollar spot than
turfgrass adequately fertilized. Apply recommended amounts of nitrogen and maintain
adequate air circulation. Keep thatch to a minimum. Irrigate based on evapotranspiration
needs of the turfgrass to a depth of 4 to 6 inches, but avoid creating drought sttess by
extending the interval between irrigations too long. Raise the mowing heights as much as
possible. Avoid prolonged leaf wetness by irrigating in the moming or early aftemoon
rather than later in the day. Adding composted top dressings has been shown to reduce
the incidence and severity of dollar spot, allowing a reduction in the frequency and/or
application rates of fiingicides.
10.2.2 Fairy Ring
Disease Conditions: Soils high in thatch or undecomposed organic matter containing
lighin.
Disease Symptoms: Dark green band of turf develops in a circle (4 inches up to 30 ft) or
semicircle in moist turf; mushrooms may or may not be present; an area of brown, dying
grass may occur just behind the dark green band; a second ring of dying grass may appear
inside the circle; weeds commonly invade.
Cultural Controls: To avoid or reduce symptoms, apply adequate nitrogen and water.
Symptoms of superficial rings can be masked by nitrogen applications. If fairy rings are
present, aeration followed by heavy watering for several weeks may help reduce
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Turf and Pest Management Plan
symptoms; soil wetting agents may improve water penetration. Proper thatch
management and regular dethatching can contribute to a reduction in the disease. Fairy
ring can be eliminated by removing the turf and root zone with the soil containing the
white, cottony, mycelial mass. If fairy ring symptoms consist only of mushrooms and
there is no zone of dark green grass, the mushrooms can be raked off and disposed.
While this will not weaken or control the fungus, it will improve the turf s appearance.
10.2.3 Fusarium Blight
Disease Conditions: Daytime temperamres of 85° to 95°F; drought-stressed areas in full
sun; survives in thatch and grass residues.
Disease Symptoms: Small, circular, grayish green areas, ranging from a few inches up to
a foot in diameter; some plants in center may survive, giving a frog-eye appearance; the
crown or basal area of dead stems has a reddish rot and is hard and tough; dead foliage
appears bleached.
Cultural Controls: Water appropriate length of time; do not apply more than 1 lb
nitrogen/1,000 sq ft/application or more than 6 lb annually; mow at highest recommended
height; verticut if more than 1/2-inch thatch.
10.2.4 Leaf Spot
Disease Conditions: Waim temperatures (70° to 90°F), high humidity, and closely
clipped turfgrass; most severe with high nitrogen fertihzation.
Disease Symptoms: Circular to elongated brownish spots with brown centers and dark
brown or purple borders on leaf blades, sheaths, and stems; crowns and roots frequently
have a dark brown rot; cro-wn-infected plants may die in hot, windy weather, leaving
thinned areas throughout the turf; spores are windbome.
Cultural Controls: Reduce shade and improve soil aeratton and water drainage. Avoid
dry spots, overfertilizing with nitrogen, and maintain as high a cutting height as possible.
Avoid prolonged leaf wetness by irrigating in pre-dawn, or early moming hours.. If
possible, increase air movement.
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10.2.5 Pythium Blight
Disease Conditions: Low spots that remain wet; temperatures in the 80° to 95°F range.
Disease Symptoms: Small, circular spots (2-6 inches) that mn together; blackened leaf
blades rapidly wither, tum reddish brown, lie flat, stick together, and appear greasy; roots
may be brown; under humid conditions, masses of fungal mycelium may appear; survives
as spores in soil for long periods.
Cultural Controls: Avoid overwatering; irrigate only when needed to a depth of 4 to 6
inches. Avoid mowing wet grass or applying high levels of nitrogen during hot, humid
weather. Reduce shading and improve soil aeration and water drainage. Time
establishment of new turf from seed or overseeding for periods when environmental
conditions are not favorable for the development ofthis disease.
10.2.6 Rhizoctonia Blight
Disease Conditions: excess thatch and mat along with high temperatures (80° to 95°F);
high humidity; soft, lush gro-wth due to excessive nitrogen; most common in warm,
inland areas.
Disease Symptoms: First appears as small, irregular brown patches or rings that may
enlarge to many feet in diameter; centers may recover resuhing in rings of diseased grass;
leaves and. sheaths become watersoaked, wilt, tum light brown, and die; in light
infestations, roots usually not infected and plants often recover; soil-inhabiting fungus
that forms fme, fungal threads in soil or on mrfgrass.
Cultural Controls: Cultural practices that improve water and fertility management are
useful in preventing the development of rhizoctonia blight. Reduce shading and improve
soil aeration and water drainage. Irrigate in the pre-dawn or early moming hours to
promote leaf drying. Irrigate only when needed to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Remove dew
from leaves by poling or light irrigation. Avoid nitrogen fertilization that results in a soft
foliage gro-wth. Maintain thatch at less than 0.5 inch.
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10.2.7 Spring Dead Spot
Disease Conditions: Affects dormant plants; most severe when temperatures 50° to
57°F; survives as sclerotia and in infected plant parts.
Disease Symptoms: Circular areas of dead grass 6-12 inches in diameter appear in spring
when growth resumes; spots may coalesce to form large areas; typically affects turfgrass
more than 2 years old.
Cultural Controls: Establish new turf plantings with clean sod from areas where spring
dead spot has not been a problem. Irrigate according to evapotranspiration needs of the
turfgrass. Dead grass can be raked out and replanted with new Bermudagrass seed or
stolons; altemately, Bermudagrass can be overseeded with ryegrass in fall or winter to
hide disease symptoms in spring.
Thick thatch and .low mo\ying heights favor the development of the disease. Manage
thatch and keep it less than 0.5 inches thick with-regular dethatching and aerification.
Provide adequate irrigation based on evapotranspiration needs to promote vigorous
growth during summer months and reduce drought stress damage. Raise mowing height
in late summer or early fall to reduce pre-dormancy stress.
Maintain adequate levels of potassium in the soil and apply potassium fertilizers in fall to
promote winter hardiness. Use adequate nitrogen fertilization programs in spring and
summer, but minimize nitrogen applications in late summer and fall. Late summer and
fall applications may contribute to disease severity because the added nitrogen promotes
the gro-wth of leaves at the expense of roots and may delay the Bermudagrass from
entering dormancy, resulting in both a reduction in cold hardiness and carbohydrate
reserves. Loss of carbohydrate reserves is detrimental to plants when they are emerging
from dormancy in spring. Use ammonium-based nitrogen sources versus nitrate- or urea-
based fertilizers. Maintaining a low soil pH (5.2 to 5.3) appears to reduce the severity of
the disease.
10.2.8 Summer Patch
Disease Conditions: High temperatures (85° to 95°F) in late spring; most severe when
turf is mowed low or when soil moisture is excessive.
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Disease Symptoms: Circular yellow or tan areas of dead and dying plants up to 1 ft in
diameter; may have green, apparently healthy plants in center; roots, crowns, stolons
have dark brown fungal hyphae on them; vascular discoloration and cortical rot occur in
later stages.
Cultural Controls: Promote root growth by soil aeration and slow-release nitrogen.
Improve drainage, reduce compaction and mechanical damage or traffic, conttol thatch,
and avoid drought stress. Irrigate based on evapotranspiration needs of turfgrass. Do not
set mowing height lower than necessary. Lightly water (syringe) turf during periods of
hot weather to reduce heat stress.
10.3 Weeds
Broadleaf weeds that are potential pests and that require monitoring and control by golf
course personnel are identified in Table 4. A description of conditions favoring weed
development, symptoms of weed infestation, and specific cultural control for each type of
weed follows. Additional information on these weeds is available through the University
of Califomia Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program webpage at
http://ucipm.ucdavis.edu/.
10.3.1 California burclover
Weed Conditions: Low nitrogen fertility.
Weed Symptoms: Summer annual weed. Stems are up to 2 feet (60 cm) long and tend to
trail along the ground, but may grow upright. The trifoliate leaves resemble those of
clover and usually have reddish-tinged midveins. Small, bright yellow flowers form in
clusters at the end of stems. Later leaves have the characteristic cloverlike shape.
Cultural Controls: Fertilize with nitrogen.
10.3.2 Black medic
Weed Conditions: Low nitrogen fertility.
Weed Symptoms: Member ofthe clover family. Low-growing annual but sometimes
behaves as a perennial. Stems are hairy and branch at the base; branches are prosttate
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and spreading. Seed leaves are oblong. The first tme leaf is simple and rounded.
Subsequent leaves are compound and have 3 egg-shaped leaflets with somewhat toothed
margins. Flowers are small and yellow and are arranged in short, spherical heads.
Cultural Controls: Fertilize with nitrogen.
10.3.3 Knotweed
Weed Conditions: Compacted soil.
Weed Symptoms: Summer annual weed which can thrive even on poor and compacted
soil. The seed leaves are long, very narrow, rounded at the tip and light green with a
white cast. The tme leaves are much broader, emerging from an encircling, membranous
sheath at the leaf base. The mamre plant grows prostrate to erect with slender, tough
stems, which are extensively branched, giving it a zigzag appearance. The tiny, green
flowers with white or pink margins sit in clusters of 2 to 5 on short stalks iri leaf axils.
Cultural Controls: Aerate.
10.3.4 Spurges
Weed Conditions: Closely mowed turfgrass with open areas; low nitrogen fertility.
Weed Symptoms: Low-growing summer annual plant that often forms a dense mat. The
oval seed leaves are bluish green, powdery, or mealy on the upper surface and have a
reddish tinge undemeath. Leaves on mature plants grow oppositely on short stalks. The
leaves are marked with a characteristic dark, reddish spot found midway down the center
of the leaf vein. When broken, a milky, sticky sap oozes from the stem. Flowers are
small, pink, and inconspicuous. They are formed in small clusters between the stem and
the upper leaves.
Cultural Controls: Check mowing height, remove plants before they spread.
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10.3.5 White Clover
Weed Conditions: Low nitrogen fertility.
Weed Symptoms: Creeping perennial plant' that can be a problem when it invades
orchards, vineyards, and other agricultural crops, as well as lawns and planting beds. The
leaf consists of three leaflets that are 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 - 1.2 cm) long. Each leaflet may
have a whitish circular band within the center. The flowers form a ball-shaped cluster.
Cultural Controls: Fertilize with nitrogen.
10.3.6 Creeping woodsorrel
Weed Conditions: Nearby sources of infestation.
Weed Symptoms: Perennial that has altemate, compound leaves, each consisting of
three heart-shaped leaflets resembling clover. Attractive yellow flowers, bome singly or
in small groups, are very characteristic. The mature plant has creeping stems emerging
from a slender taproot. The stems root at the nodes and invade larger areas. When seeds
mature, pods open explosively, often spreading seeds 10 feet (300 cm) or more. Prefers
shady situations.
Cultural Controls: Remove plants before they spread.
10.3.7 Dandelion
Weed Conditions: Poorly maintained thin areas near sources of infestation.
Weed Symptoms: Widely distributed perennial. The mature plant arises from a strong,
deep taproot that exudes a milky substance when cut. There is no visible stem. Leaves
are sparsely hairy or without hairs, have deeply serrated margins, and are clustered in a
rosette at the base of the plant. Dandelion can reproduce from seed almost year-round or
it can regrow from its taproot. Bright yellow flower heads, 1 to 2 inches (2.5 - 5 cm)
across, consist of petal-like ray flowers and are bome singly on the tip of a hollow stalk,
3 to 12 inches (7.5 - 30 cm) long.
Cultural Controls: Remove plants by hand; improve turfgrass management practices.
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Turf and Pest Management Plan .
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I 10.3.8 English Daisy
Weed Conditions: Moist turfgrass, mostly in cool coastal climates.
Weed Symptoms: Low-growing pereimial with oval basal leaves. Prominent upright
flower stalks with showy white or pinkish daisylike flowers are seen throughout the
season
Cultural Controls: Keep turfgrass on dry side; improve turfgrass management practices.
10.3.9 Buckhom plantains
Weed Conditions: Overwatering, compacted soil, poorly maintained open turfgrass
areas; shaded areas in warm climates. ^
Weed Symptoms: Seedlings have very long, needle-like seed leaves. Broader, pale
green, tme leaves have prominent parallel veins. The mature plant, reaching up to 1.5
feet (45 cm) tall, is stemless. Leaves are 3 to 10 inches (8 - 25 cm) long and cluster
around the base ofthe plant. They taper to slender flowering stalks, 6 to 20 inches (15 -
50 cm) tall. The flowering stalks are tipped with flower spikes that have protmding white
stamens. In apples, buckhom plantain is a special problem because it serves as a host for
rosy apple aphid.
Cultural Controls: Reduce irrigation; aerate; improve turfgrass management practices.
10.3.10 Broadleaf plantains
Weed Conditions: Overwatering, poor drainage; sun and heat.
Weed Symptoms: Perennial that grows in areas of inconsistent irrigation. Leaves are
smooth and oval and they narrow to a well-defined reddish petiole. Leaf blades are large,
3 to 6 inches (7.5 - 15 cm) long, with prominent veins. Roots are fibrous and shallow.
Flowers, are produced on stalks, 3 to 6 inches (7.5 - 15 cm) in length.
Cultural Controls: Reduce irrigation. ,
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10.3.11 Green kyllinga
Weed Conditions: Overwatering, poor drainage; sun and heat.
Weed Symptoms: Perennial sedge with narrow, grass-like leaves. The plant grows best
in moist or wet areas that receive full sun but it can survive some shade and drying once
established. Mature plants may reach 15 inches (38.2 cm). Green kyllinga flowers from
May to October. Flower stalks are triangular in cross-section and produce a green, 3/8
inch (9.5 mm). A group of three leaves radiate out from the stalk. There are 30 to 75
spikelets within each flower, each one capable of producing one seed. The plant's flat,
oval seeds are about 1/8 inch (3 mm) long and half as wide, germinating from spring
through summer.
Cultural Controls: Reduce irrigation.
10.3.12 Nutsedge
Weed Conditions: Overwatering; poor drainage; sun and heat, nearby infestation.
Weed Symptoms: Perennial that superficially resembles grasses. Grows mainly from
tubers or "nutiets" formed on rhizomes, mostly in the upper foot of soil. Leaves are V-
shaped in cross section and arranged in sets of three at the base. Stems are triangular in
cross section. Tubers of yellow nutsedge are produced singly while purple nutsedge
tubers are produced in chains, several on a single rhizome.
Cultural Controls: Reduce irrigation; remove plants before they spread.
10.4 Insects
Turfgrass areas are -vulnerable to damage from insect infestations. Monitoring for insects
will consist of routine visual inspection of susceptible areas on a regular basis. General
turfgrass cultural practices leading to optimal turf vigor are the primary means of
minimizing the potential for insect infestatio-ij^;. The it?est way to prevent damage from
turfgrass pests is to keep the turfgrass healthy. Healthy turfgrass requires few, if any,
insecticide treatments. Also, if the turfgrass is under stress and a pesticide is applied, it
stands a greater chance of suffering phytotoxic damage from the pesticide itself
Insecticide treatment is only to be considered after all cultural practices have been
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Turf and Pest Management Plan
11 exhausted, and the long-term health of the turf is at stake. Any application of insecticides
will follow the procedures identified in Section 11 ofthis TPMP.
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p . Cultural Controls: Reduce thatch; eliminate soggy areas; oVerseed la-wn.
10.4.2 Black turfgrass (Ataenius spretulus)
Insect Host: annual bluegrass, bentgrass, ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass.
Damage Appearance: BroAvn, dying grass, few roots; lawn is easily peeled off soil.
. Cultural Controls: Increase mowing height; aerate to improve root growth.
10.4.3 Lawn moth/Sod webworms (Crambus sperryellus, Tehama bonifatella)
Insect Host: All grasses, especially bentgrass, bluegrass, clovers.
1^ Damage Appearance: Lawn brown; leaves chewed or missing.
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The detection of insects and mites on tmfgrass will be conducted by mixing one to two
ounces of dishwashing liquid into one gallon of water. The solution is then applied to
one square yard of turf as evenly as possible with a sprinkling can. This will irritate the
insects so that they move to the surface.
A description of specific insect pests, symptoms of infestation, and corresponding control
measures follows. Additional information on these insects is available through the
University of Califomia Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program webpage at
http://ucipm.ucdavis.edu/.
10.4.1 Armyworms/Cutworms (Pseudaletia unipuncta, Peridroma saucia, Agrotis
spp.;
Insect Host: All grasses.
Damage Appearance: Leaves and base of leaves chewed and cut beginning in small,
irregular spots that can spread to patches extending many feet in width.
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Cultural Controls: Reduce thatch; irrigate and fertilize appropriately.
10.4.4 Southern Chinch Bug (Blissus insularis)
Insect Host: primarily St. Augustinegrass and other grasses.
Damage Appearance: irregular patches of lawn tum yellowish, then brown and begin
dying during hot weather.
Cultural Controls: Reduce thatch; reduce.nitrogen fertilization; irrigate adequately.
10.4.5 White grubs - immatures of masked chafers (Cyclocephala spp.)
Insect Host: All grasses, especially bluegrass, ryegrass.
Damage Appearance: Brown dying grass; la-wn can be rolled up if heavily infested.
Cultural Controls: Irrigate and fertilize appropriately;
10.5 Vertebrates
Damage to mrfgrass caused by small animals occurs much less frequently than damage
caused by diseases and insects. However, when damage does occur, it is tends to be very
severe. Damage symptoms include mounding of soil, burrows, and raised tunnels.
A description identifying the vertebrate, typical damage appearance, and control
measures is provided below. Additional information on these vertebrates is available,
through the University of Califomia Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program
webpage at http://ucipm.ucdavis.edu/.
10.5.1 Moles
Identification: Moles have cylindrical bodies with slender, pointed snouts, and short,
bare, of sparsely haired tails. Their limbs are short and spadelike. Their eyes are poorly
developed and their ears are not visible. The fur is short, dense, and velvety. Moles have
one litter of three or four young during early spring.
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Damage Appearance: Mounds and surface runways are obvious indicators of the
presence of moles. The mounds are formed when moles push soil up to the surface from
underground mnways. The excavated soil may be in small chunks, and single mounds
often appear in a line over the mnway connecting them:
Surface feeding burrows appear as ridges that the mole pushes up by forcing its way
through the soil. Some ofthe surface mnways are temporary. More permanent tunnels are
deeper underground and are.usually about 2 inches in diameter and 8 to 12 inches below
the surface. Moles are active throughout the year, although surface activity slows or is
absent during periods of extrenie cold, heat, or drought.
Control Measure: Upon sighting of active mounds or surface mnways, appropriate
control actions should be implemented. Trapping is the most universally applicable and
dependable method of mole control. Traps are placed in the mnway used by the mole.
Because the mole's main diet consists of earthworms and insects, poisoning with baits is
rarely effective.
10.5.2 Pocket Gophers
Identification: Five species of pocket gophers are found in Califomia, with Botta's
pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae) being most widespread. Depending on the species,
they may range in length from 6 to 10 inches. Although they are sometimes seen feeding
at the edge of an open burrow, pushing dirt out of a burrow, or moving to a new area,
gophers for the most part remain underground in the burrow system.
Damage Appearance: Mounds of fresh soil are the best sign of gopher presence.
Mounds are forrried as the gopher digs its tunnel and pushes the loose dirt to the surface.
Typically mounds are crescent- or horseshoe-shaped when viewed from above. The hole,
which is off to one side of the mound, is usually plugged. Mole mounds are sometimes
mistaken for gopher mounds. Mole mounds, however, appear circular and have a plug in
the middle that may not be distinct; in profile they are volcano-shaped. Unlike gophers,
moles commonly burrow just beneath the surface, leaving a raised ridge to mark their
path.
Control Measure: Upon sighting of active mounds or surface runways, appropriate
conttol actions should be implemented. Trapping is a safe and effective method to control
pocket gophers. Several types and brands of gopher traps are available. Successful
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trapping depends on accurately locating the gopher's main burrow through the use of a
commercially available gopher probe.
11.0 PESTICIDES
11.1 Pesticide Definition
A pesticide is any substance that is used to control pests, including insects (insecticide),
weeds (herbicide), fungus (fungicide) nematodes (nematicide), and algae (algicide). The
mechanism of action of most pesticides is to eliminate the pest by suppressing,
weakening, or eradicating the target pest.
11.2 Pesticide Use Determination
The primary strategy for pest management, as defined, is to optimize turf vigor through
cultural practices to optimize turf resistance to, or tolerance of pests. In the event that
cultural practices do not contain pest populations below damage thresholds, chemical
contro] measures will be employed as necessary.
Pesticides applied to control pests will be selected by the Superintendent. The decision
will be based upon the safety, efficacy, economic impact, toxicology, and environmental
compatibility of the pesticide. Additionally, the use of low-leaching pesticides shall be
emphasized. The University of Califomia Statewide Integrated Pest Management
Program web page suggests pesticides for the control of pests identified in this plan. The
web page can be accessed at http://ucipm.ucdavid.edu/
The ideal pesticide requires minimal application, is target-specific (is safe for non-
targeted species), and is compatible with the environment. While these properties are
ideal, and are pursued by pesticide manufacturers, the degree of cross-toxicity and
environmental compatibility in pesticides approved for use by the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) varies. As a result, the use of pesticides will be avoided to the
extent practicable.
In the event that pesticide application is necessary, they will be applied in a manner
consistent with the manufacturer's product application label, and will follow the
procedure identified in Sections 11.3 through 11.10.
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11.3 Notification Requirement
Prior to the use of pesticides for management of onsite pests, written notice shall be
provided to the Executive Director of the Califomia Coastal Gommission. The notice
shall be transmitted via fax, and will include, at minimum, the following:
• Description of pest problem and location;
• Identification of the non-chemical strategies that were used;
• Reason for the ineffectiveness of the non-chemical strategies used; and
• Identification of the chemical strategies proposed.
The notice shall be provided no less than 24 hours (Monday through Friday) before the
proposed apphcation of pesticides.
11.4 Projected Pesticide Use
The use of pesticides will be considered after all other cultural practices have been
exhausted, and the long-term health of the turf is at stake. It is anticipated that pesticides
will be used at the golf course at some point. No pesticides will be applied to the
playable or nonplayable rough. Table 6 summarizes the anticipated pesticide use for the
Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course. The rates in Table 6 are based upon typical pesticide
applications at courses that implement EPM.
Table 6
Pesticide Application Areas and Typical Application Frequencies
Area % Total Area
Of Golf Course
Pesticide Application Per
Year
Pesticide Category
Greens 3.7% , 2-4 Fungicide
Tee Surface 4.6% Spot treatment as needed Herbicide
Fairway 46.6% 0-2 Herbicide/Fungicide
11.5 Pesticide Storage
Pesticides shall be stored in a cool, dry, ventilated, secured building that is fireproof
Weatheiproof waming signs shall be hung on the door. Pesticides will be stored at least
six inches off the ground on strong, non-absorbent shelving, with each product's Material
Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) prominently displayed. The pesticides shall be organized into
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11.9 Clean Up and Disposal
Pesticide containers, mixing tanks, and equipment will be rinsed in accordance with
recommended procedures and rinse water will be disposed of in accordance with state
and local ordinances.
11.10 Pesticide Documentation
Current pesticide labels and MSDS will be compiled and maintained in a location
accessible to all employees. All pesticide documentation will be in accordance with
federal and state regulations, All pesticide purchases and usage will be documented in a
pesticide log book as a means of monitoring inventory control. The Superintendent will
develop a standard pesticide application information record that will detail, at minimum,
the following information for each pesticide application:
Date of application and time of day.
Certified applicator's name and registration number (if applicable).
Name of the staff member applying the pesticide.
Specific turf/omamental area where the pesticide was applied.
Target pest(s).
Application equipment used.
Lisf of protective gear wom by apphcator.
Pesticides used (common name, trade name, formulation, active ingredient).
Lot number of the material applied.
Name and address of the pesticide supplier.
Total amount of formulation added to the tank or hopper.
Amount of mixture used.
Size of the area or number treated (acres, trees, etc.).
Weather conditions (temperature, wind, speed and direction).
Description comments (location, severity of infestation).
EPA establishment and registration numbers.
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12.0 REFERENCES
Carlsbad Municipal Golf Course Final Environmental Impact Report 1998. Prepared by
Cotton/Beland/Associates.
City of Carlsbad Revised Golf Course Riparian Mitigation Plan. 2003. Prepared by P&D
Environmental.
Greg Nash Design. Carlsbad Golf Course Acreage Take-Offs. April 1, 2004.
Michigan State University Pesticide Education. http://www,pested.msu.edu. Viewed on
April 26, 2004
Monitoring for Improved Golf Course Pest Management Results, (date unknown). James
E. Skomlski. Prepared for the United States Golf Association.
Neighborhood Network. Organic Golf Information V age.
http://-www.neighborhood-network.org/golf7index.htm
North Carolina State University Turfgrass Environmental Research and Education
Center. Publications. Water Quality for Golf Course Superintendents and Professional
Turf Managers. http://www.turffiles.ncsu.edu/PUBS/MANAGEMENT/PROTURF.PDF
Webpage viewed April 22, 2004.
Pacific Gales Golf Club Integrated Pest Management Plan. July 2003.
Pollution Prevention Opportunities - Golf Course Turf Management, (date unkno-wn)
United States Air Force Golf Course Environmental Management.
Turf Management for Golf Course. 2002. J. Beard. Prentice-Hall, Inc. Upper Saddle
River, NJ.
University of California IPM Online - Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program.
http://ucipm.ucdavis.edu/ Webpage viewed April 20, 2004.
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