Written by: Rob Hay
2026
Northamptonshire County Golf Club experienced an exceptionally prolonged period of hot and dry weather during the summer of 2026, placing significant pressure on our available water resources. Rather than attempting to maintain uniformly green turf, we prioritised water according to plant health and playing requirements, allowing lower-priority areas to dry naturally. Daily evapotranspiration (ET) data showed moisture losses exceeding 6mm per day during the hottest periods. This was combined with soil-moisture readings, irrigation meter data and regular reservoir monitoring to guide irrigation decisions. Targeted hand watering was used to treat localised dry areas without unnecessarily irrigating entire surfaces. Despite the prolonged drought, careful monitoring and prioritisation meant sufficient water remained available to meet the course's needs through to the end of the irrigation season, while maintaining essential playing quality.
