Sensor Technology

Golf course technology has been growing at a rapid rate. One of the the many things that has come out of this technology is a sensor system that gives superintendents a 24/7 monitoring of their soil moisture temperature and even salinity of the soil. This information relayed back to your computer can help tremendously with water conservation and being able to keep a close eye on your greens, not just above the ground but below. Knowing exactly how much water your greens need cuts back on water waste by up to 40%. UgMo, a company in sensor systems, shows that these sensors can help cut water usage. They are installed by simply using a cup cutter and burying them around a six inch deep. This trend is starting to catch on, one of the first superintendents to get involved with the sensor system was Matt Shaffer at Merion Golf Club in Ardmore, Pa. In an article from the NY times Matt said “Well, what I thought was dry isn’t even my baseline. These sensors are just so much more sensitive, so much better, so much more complete. I am now hooked. I’m a sensor addict.” He says the sensors are so much more sensitive and complete. Although these units are a little pricey roughly around $85,000 for 18 greens I think they are a very good investment in the long run.