OBJECTIVE: Determine and record site conditions, including areas of environmental sensitivity, as well as current and past problems and potential for future problems.
Conduct a detailed assessment of each site to be managed.
Accurate site specifications are indispensible for planning with relation to management practices, materials applications, and renovation or reconstruction.
Problem areas that impact turf health directly affect the potential loss of turf quality and function and increase the likelihood of pest infestations.
Points to consider in a thorough site assessment include:
map or photo record of property
square footage of turf area(s) being managed
drainage patterns
as-built drawings/maps of drainage and irrigation systems
determination of functional condition and adequacy of drainage and irrigation systems
the age, condition, and species composition of the turf (including cultivars if known)
the physical condition, texture, and variation of soils on the site
a current soil pH and nutrient analysis
the fertility history and a summary of the current fertility program
a pest history and current or potential problems
Identify and record permanent features of each site in relation to management of the turf.
Permanent features on or in close proximity to the site should be assessed from two perspectives:
How turf function and quality might be impacted by these features.
How these features might be impacted by turf management practices.
The following are important items and structures that might be included:
trees, shrubs, gardens and other landscape plantings.
driveways and walkways
parking lots and roadways
fencing
buildings
temporary structures
monuments or grave markers
playgrounds and/or daycare facilities
decorative ponds
significant abutters that have potential for impact
Changes to this record should be made as they occur.
Devote particular attention to the identification of areas of environmental sensitivity.
Similar to above, areas of environmental sensitivity on or in close proximity to the site should be assessed from two perspectives:
How turf function and quality might be impacted by these areas.
How these areas might be impacted by turf management practices.
The following are key areas that should be included:
wetland protection resource areas
wells on property
wells in proximity to property
Zone I & II areas
surface water features
high water table areas
catch basins
exposed bedrock
other environmentally sensitive areas
Determine and record agronomic problems in key locations and consider potential solutions.
The recognition of agronomic problems is the first step in developing a solution.
Problems to note include but are not limited to the following:
poorly adapted turfgrass species or cultivars
insufficient fertility
undesirable soil types
excessive thatch
excessive traffic stress
compaction
pet damage
poor drainage
shade
localized dry spots
poor air circulation
southwest facing slopes
tree root influence
shallow soil or bedrock
areas prone to damage from snow removal or salt application