GOLFERS URGED TO SUPPORT GREENKEEPERS

BIGGA is calling on golf clubs and golfers across the UK to support greenkeeperrs as the country facest its driest spring for decades.
 
Following some exceptionally wet recent winters, the spring of 2025 has brought a stark contrast. According to the Met Office, rainfall across many regions has been at historic lows. Wales recorded its driest March since 1944, while East Anglia experienced its second-driest March on record. With May showing little improvement, greenkeepers are under extreme pressure to maintain playing surfaces amid growing turf stress.
 
David Byron, head greenkeeper at Thorndon Park Golf Club in Essex, said, “It’s very, very dry. It’s the driest start to spring in nearly 70 years. We’ve had almost no rain, and what we have had has come in just one hit.
 
“In our fairways, we’re down to about 3–4% moisture content. Normally, you’d want 10 to 15% for the grass species we have.”
 
BIGGA say these conditions are presenting major challenges for turf recovery and maintenance. Areas without irrigation, such as fairways, are suffering, while teams attempt to preserve greens and tees with limited water resources.
 
Clubs are encouraged to communicate openly with their members, sharing insight into current conditions and course management strategies. Transparent engagement and social media updates are key tools to foster support.
 
“Our advice to clubs is to engage in professional dialogue with your course manager, set agreed objectives and show open support for your team of greenkeepers,” said BIGGA’s CEO Jim Croxton.
 
“They will be much more motivated and determined to overcome these challenges with strong support from their members.”