A few weeks ago, I posted a link to a video on Handwatering, produced by the USGA. They have many other helpful videos that explain the "why" and "how" of course maintenance. One of the videos is on divot repair. See the link below:
Divot Repair Video Link
There are two reasons why filling your divots are important: 1. It aids in the recovery of the fairway, and 2. It provides a reasonable surface for the golfer playing behind you. If not filled properly, one or both of these will be impeded.
We have a great membership that is willing to care for the golf course. We go through a lot of sand and many divots get filled, but sometimes just filling it isn't enough, it has to be done correctly.
When a divot is not repaired or filled, an uneven playing surface is created leaving the chance for a bad lie in the middle of the fairway.
But if the divot is not filled properly, the effect can almost be worse.
Not only are you creating a chance for a bad lie you are also creating mounds of sand that will most likely get leveled out by the next mowing. When that sand goes through the reels of the mower, it acts as sand paper on the metal. When cutting grass with scissors like precision, anything that is abrasive will produce undesired results and cause more time in the shop sharpening.
All of the divots pictured were ones that were on the course yesterday, I did not stage them (other than placing the ball next to it). As you see, this one has twice as much sand as needed.
A properly filled divot is one that fills the void and then flattened to provide an even playing surface and one that will not cause harm to the equipment. We appreciate all that the members do to help keep YOUR club in great shape.
