Golf course closes for the winter Published Oct. 28, 2010 By Staff Sgt. R. Michael Longoria 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The 2010 golf-season came to an end as several Airmen helped golf course employees cover the greens Oct. 25 at the Plainsview Golf Course here. The covers protect the open turf from ice and wind damage, which can occur during the winter months. The covers also help protect the grass from damage due to deer, rabbits and mice. "Covering the greens helps protect them from the harsh effects of winter," said Stan Bruggeman, Plainsview Golf Course manager. "We need to protect these greens from the winter weather because the golf green is one of the biggest investments a golf course makes. We try and protect that investment through regular preventative maintenance." With the greens covered, it means the end of a busy season for Plansview and its employees. "Golfers played 6,000 rounds of golf at our course this year," said Mr. Bruggeman. "With a base our size, I'd say that's a great year. We also saw an increase in new golfers, mostly in the airman to senior airman range." The course is closed, but golfers can still play golf on base. Plainsview offers a Full Swing Golf Simulator that features a driving range and 26 different golf courses from around the world. "The simulator has the capability to register ball speed, spin and direction as well as determine how far the ball would travel if you had hit it outside," said Mr. Bruggeman. "It's a great tool for learning how to play golf or practicing your swing for the next season." To schedule time with the simulator, call the Plainsview Pro-Shop, which is open year round, at (701) 747-4280. "During the winter months, I research the latest changes and improvements to clubs, golf balls and other golf equipment," said Mr. Bruggeman. "Golfers can visit the pro-shop to purchase gear for the upcoming season. If I don't have what they are looking for, I can order it from the manufacturers." As for next season, Mr. Bruggeman said that golfers can expect the golf course and its greens to be in great condition. "Each year the condition of the greens improve as we get better equipment, better fertilizer and different types of grass," he said. "We also planted trees in various areas to improve the course's esthetics and playability." Mr. Bruggeman added that the Putters Snack Bar is always open and has daily lunch specials Monday through Friday.