Greenkeeping, like most professions, tries to measure everything. We do this to make adjustments, when needed, and to take advantage of opportunities when we can afford it.
In looking back to 2010 to understand that season, and to better see patterns that would explain the challenging conditions courses encountered, I found some data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association that told me what I already knew.
2010 2011
Avg temp: 49.7 42.9 (so far)
Avg rain: 41.47" 21.29" (so far)
Course conditions are directly related to moisture levels; heat, not so much.
The more frequent and heavier rain the course encounters, the worse overall playing condition will be experienced. (Hence drying practices are encouraged like aerifying, drainage, topdressing, etc.)
More data will come out in years to come, not only contrasting these two years, but data that will allow us a better understanding of our warming and wetter planet and what we can expect as it relates to golf.
What I know for certain is we've seen no significant rain this season during the hottest parts of the year.
The difference that makes in turf quality and playing conditions is like comparing night to day.
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