Handling the turf loss barrel

In many regions of the country, 2025 was a brutal year that tested the mettle of even some of most battle worn, veteran superintendents. Mother Nature was certainly up to her old tricks, and her wrath seemed to leave few unscathed. Heavy rain, drought, intense heat and record humidity plagued superintendents, and the result, unfortunately, was turf loss in many situations.

There is an adage in our industry that states: “There are two kinds of superintendents: Those who have lost grass, and those who are going to.” There is truth to this statement. Even the best superintendents face challenging years that result in golf course conditions of which they are not proud. Poor conditions, slow greens and dead grass are embarrassing for superintendents who toil and grind damn near every day of the year. Let’s face it, being a superintendent can be humbling.

Anyone who grows grass for a living knows that adversity and challenge touches everyone sooner or later, but the differences in how people react to that adversity is what will ultimately separate them. There are those who hide in their office, avoid membership confrontations, and hope that the storm blows over and the grass recovers. Then there are those who face the challenge head on, strap on their “big boy” pants, and deal with the tests that come along with the adversity.

I can tell you, univocally: be the latter type of superintendent. Confronting the issues on your golf course and taking responsibility for poor conditions might be the difference between keeping your job and looking for a new one.

In our experience, most memberships are generally understanding, especially for those superintendents who have a history of producing solid conditions year in and year out. Informing the membership via regular communications is key. Get ahead of the issue and control the narrative.

Membership gossip circles around the firepit after golf league can be terrible and full of misinformation. Beat them to the punch. Communicate clearly and effectively in as many formats as possible on what the problems are, why they were caused, and what actions are going to be taken to rectify the issues that might be occurring on the golf course.

Be seen! Get out of your office and make a point to talk with people. Go to the clubhouse, be on the practice green, be on the range tee, go to the golf shop, talk with people on the golf course, and get your message out to the membership. People will gain respect for you and understand the challenges much better from you in person, even if they are frustrated with the current golf course conditions.

It’s difficult, frustrating and embarrassing to discuss with members why the golf course is not where it should be, but it’s part of the job to take accountability for your area of responsibility. This could also be the time to fight for what you need: more funds, more aerification, more staff, etc.

We understand that the turf loss might be due to underlying agronomic issues. But how are you ever going to get those underlying issues rectified if you are not out there communicating to the members?

It has been said that only two things happen fast in this industry: turf loss and job loss. We are calling BS on the second part of that statement. Job loss will only happen quickly if you don’t meet the adversity with accountability and communication.

Possibly you’re reading this and you made it through 2025 unscathed. If so, we are truly happy for you. But remember: there might be a day going forward when it is your turn in the turf loss barrel. Think about how you will deal with adversity when it comes your way.