Tree damage beyond Ike’s tree

Photo: Golfdom Staff

I was standing there on No. 7 green at Augusta National, taking some photos of the guys mowing. They loaded up the mower, and a brave patron approached the two crewmen.

“Hey, do you guys, uh… do you put something on the greens between now and tomorrow to make them greener for TV?” the patron asked.

I was surprised the patron wanted greener greens in the first place. But I enjoyed the back-and-forth if only for the response of the crew member: “We’re not supposed to speak to anyone about course conditions, sir.”

So of course this next nugget comes from a “little birdie” who shall go nameless.

A look at the view from No. 17 tee with the Eisenhower tree now gone. Photo: Golfdom Staff

Augusta National, as well as courses throughout the region, sustained serious tree damage back in February with that ice storm that came through, ultimately dooming the famous Eisenhower tree, a 100-year-old Loblolly Pine. But obviously that wasn’t the only tree to take a hit.

Word is that 20 contractors were brought in to quickly clean up and remove damaged trees and branches throughout the course. Bringing in even one contractor with heavy equipment can make a superintendent sweat… but to bring in 20? And to the hallowed grounds of Augusta National? That had to be another stressful week for the maintenance team.

And the best thing is, the course looked as great as it always does. Did anyone notice trees that were a little less full than they were in previous years? It made for an interesting topic of conversation with the architects I was hanging out with. Do golf fans… or Masters patrons… ever look up?