The years-long battle between Eisenhower Park's Red Course and persistent turf issues rages on.
Three greens on Eisenhower Red are currently closed due to the emergence of summer patch, a turfgrass fungus that affects golf courses, lawns and athletic fields. Nassau County posted signs at the course last week announcing that temporary greens are in place on #7, #8 and #18 as park crews work to repair and restore the main putting surfaces. Recovery time is "weather-dependent," the county says.
Golf On Long Island received several photos of the impacted greens, most notably #7, which was newly built in 2022 when the hole was extended from a long par-4 to a dogleg par-5. The images show large discolored and bare patches across the putting surface.
The Red Course's fight against poor green conditions has been ongoing for more than decade. Previously, a bad case of chemical burn severely damaged most of the surfaces and took several seasons to overcome. Greens were taken out of play on several occasions during restoration at that time.
Summer patch typically appears on fairways and greens as circular areas of wilted turf that are most prominent in midsummer following hot, rainy conditions, according to Penn State Extension. The fungus attacks the roots of the turf plants. The county announcement says the fungus "is being treated with expert-recommended solutions." Green fees on the Red Course will not be reduced.
For the latest course conditions, contact the Eisenhower Park golf office at (516) 571-7242.