First things first, this article is by no means a call for bunkers to be maintained more meticulously. Rather, it is to show how preventative measures can be put in place to protect the bunker edges where operators frequently enter and exit with a mechanical rake.
It is common for bunker edges to deteriorate from concentrated traffic as operators enter and exit, often in the same area. Compounding the issue is how sand is often deposited on the turf on bunker edges as the mechanical rake exits. Over time, sand accumulation can lead to the edges becoming unstable and turf that is more vulnerable to decline because the soils have lower nutrient- and water-holding capacity.
While conducting Course Consulting Service visits, USGA agronomists have observed different strategies used to protect the bunker edges and prevent the accumulation of sand. One strategy is to use a ramp that helps reduce mechanical wear on bunker edges. The operator simply places the ramp in the bunker prior to raking and then removes the ramp before moving on to the next bunker. These ramps are often fabricated in-house to fit securely on the machine and are light enough so they are not a burden for the operator to maneuver.
Another strategy is to use a mat that overlaps both the sand and the turf at the exit and entry point of the bunker. Similar to the ramp method, the mat is put in place prior to entering the bunker and removed after exiting. A lightweight material is chosen that is easy to store on the machine and does not add a significant amount of time to raking each bunker. An added benefit of this strategy is the mat will collect sand that falls of the mechanical rake as it exits the bunker, helping reduce the accumulation of excess sand at the exit point.
It is inevitable that bunker edges will need to be renovated, especially in areas where the mechanical rake enters and exits. However, the frequency with which edges have to be restored can be extended by putting preventative measures in place to protect the turf in these vulnerable areas.
Central Region Agronomists:
Paul Jacobs, agronomist – pjacobs@usga.org
Zach Nicoludis, agronomist – znicoludis@usga.org