Impacts of Deficit Irrigation and Traffic Stress On Bermudagrass Fairways.

Texas golf course water use has become increasingly regulated due to persistent drought conditions, diminishing water supplies, and population growth. Golf courses increasingly face cutbacks in water allocation, but information is limited regarding minimal levels needed for maintaining adequate quality, persistence, and recovery. The objectives of this 2-year study are to 1) characterize the response of ÔTifwayÕ bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon x C. traansvalensis Burt. Davy) fairway and rough to season-long irrigation at 60, 45, 30, and 0% of reference evapotranspiration (ET_o), 2) determine the impacts of simulated traffic on irrigation requirements, and 3) quantify divot recovery as a function of irrigation amount and traffic. Digital analysis software is being used to quantify changes in turf canopy and root architecture.  In the absence of traffic stress, irrigation levels of 30% x ET_o are needed for maintaining minimally acceptable quality.  However, ³45% ET_o is necessary where traffic is received.  Canopy temperatures increase considerably with reduced irrigation, with up to a 30¡ F difference between irrigated and non-irrigated plots.  Fall recovery of unirrigated plots was substantial, as green cover reached ³85% by November.