Billbugs

Billbugs are weevils (commonly called snout beetles) that belong to the family Curculionidae that commonly infest high-cut turfgrass species. The bluegrass billbug, Sphenophorus parvulus Gyllenhal, is the most frequently encountered billbug.   Damage to turf is caused by the larval stage of this pest, as they burrow down through the grass stem toward the crown and roots. Destruction of turf roots, especially during periods of drought, will kill the entire grass plant. Billbug damage usually first appears in mid- to late June.  

Below is a photo of a Bluegrass Billbug in the larvae form and the second picture is the damage to turf that the billbugs can cause.   We are currently treating for billbugs in various areas throughout the golf course.

Audubon Certification Achieved

The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for golf courses is an award winning education and certification program that helps courses protect the environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf.  By enhancing the valuable natural areas and wildlife habitats that golf courses provide, improve efficiency, and minimize potentially harmful impacts of golf course operations, the program serves an important environmental role worldwide.

To achieve certification with the ACSP, implementing and demonstrating environmental practices in the following areas are required;

*Environmental Planning
*Wildlife and Habitat Management
*Chemical Use Reduction and Safety
*Water Conservation
*Water Quality Management
*Outreach and Education


The certification effort was led by Assistant Superintendent, Jake Witherspoon.  His time and efforts are appreciated and the golf course maintenance staff looks forward to continually maintaining the golf course in an environmentally friendly manner.