By Jeff D'Andrea

Much-needed repairs underway at Cooke golf course

Sep 13, 2017 | 2:00 PM

After years of planning, the Cooke Municipal Golf Course is finally getting their irrigation system replaced.

The current irrigation system is almost 40-years-old, well over its 20-25 year life expectancy.

“Our old system is beyond its life expectancy and the repairs and replacement need to be done,” Cooke Municipal head professional Darcy Myers said. “It’s just a matter of time before things get real bad, so we’re trying to be proactive in that sense and get the replacement completed before things get drastic.”

Myers said although the final date of the completion could vary due to several factors, especially how the weather cooperates, he did say all the replacement work “will be complete by the end of next August; 100 per cent.”

Before that time, the entire irrigation system will be replaced.

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“Basically, it’s a complete replacement from head-to-toe,” Myers said. “That includes the pump house, the pond expansion itself, all new piping for the main line and all the laterals that go to each hole and specific areas. So yeah, it’s a big undertaking but progress is being made as we speak.”

Since last week, preparations have been made at Cooke for the replacement. Before the year’s end, Myers hopes the irrigation pipes can be replaced on holes three, four, and five, as well as extensions done on the retention pond.

“Of course, it’s weather permitting. If we have good weather this fall, maybe we can get a little more,” Myers said. “But we’re just crossing our fingers at this point that Mother Nature cooperates with us.”

Because of the ongoing maintenance work, Cooke will have 16 holes operating for golfers, and will remain open with reduced green fees until the end of this season.

“The course is still in really good condition so people can still play until Thanksgiving weekend,” Myers said.

For next season, work will be done on one hole at a time until completion. Since Cooke has an extra hole, Myers said golfers will be able to enjoy 18 holes for each round.

Jeff.dandrea@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @jeff_paNOW