In the game of golf, a mole is a small burrowing mammal. They’re also something that many golf courses fear. Moles can wreak havoc on a system by creating tunnels and chambers under the ground where they will reside and feed. These tunnels can cause tee boxes to sink or even collapse, making things a little difficult for players.
Luckily, there are some simple ways that most golf courses use to keep moles from eating away at their turf and greens during peak season. However, these methods aren’t foolproof…most golfers will agree that moles are one of the most frustrating pests to deal with! Here is everything you need to know about how golf courses keep moles away.
How To Keep Moles Away From Golf Courses
If you’re a new golfer, you may not know how to keep moles away from golf courses. However, you can do a few things to keep these pests away from your path.
Make sure to follow the rules of golf carefully. If you don’t follow these rules, you can damage the course.
- Use traps to catch moles on the golf course. Be sure to check the trap frequently, though, because moles are dangerous animals.
- Ask the golf course manager about their preventative measures. They may have some helpful advice for you.
- Spread seeds in areas where moles are most likely to be. Moles prefer areas that are bare, so seeds will help keep them away.
Moles And Golfing
Moles are often found near golf courses, but they don’t actually play the game. Moles are very territorial animals that don’t like to share their space. Moles dig a holes for a variety of reasons, but it’s usually to create a burrow where they can live, feed, and breed. The only time you’ll see moles on a golf course is when they’re feeding on the worms and grubs that are found in the soil. You might see a mole on the green because they’re feeding on the roots of the grass, which can damage the roots and make the grass look unhealthy.
Keeping Moles Away: What Works?
There are two methods of keeping moles away: chemical and mechanical. When it comes to chemicals, very few are actually approved for use around golf courses. The most common chemical that golfers use to keep moles away is called Cal-Soot. Moles typically move to a new area when the Cal-Soot is applied. It’s best to apply Cal-Soot in the fall, just before moles begin moving to their winter burrows. One of the most effective mechanical methods of keeping moles away is installing mole traps. Traps are easy to install and are effective at catching moles. They come in a variety of styles and sizes, so be sure to read the instructions when you purchase one.
What Are Some Of The Most Effective Ways Golf Courses Use To Keep Moles Away?
- Fencing – Moles hate to be trapped, so a perimeter fence may work well. You can also bury the fence 6-8 inches below the soil line to prevent moles from burrowing beneath it. If you prefer, you can also use synthetic mesh to prevent moles from climbing over the fence.
- Traps – One of the most effective ways to keep moles away is to use mole traps. These traps are designed to kill moles so that they won’t have to be removed from the course.
- Scarecrow Sprinklers – One of the most unique ways to scare moles away is to use scarecrow sprinklers. These sprinklers use water to scare moles away, so they won’t eat the turf. Scarecrow sprinklers are a much-preferred option to using poisons, which can cause other problems for the environment.
- Vitamin B Scramblers – The scent of vitamin B is said to drive moles away from the course. It is believed that moles don’t like the smell of vitamin B, so they will go away. Although there isn’t much scientific evidence to support this, many golf courses have reported success with vitamin B repellents.
The Bad News About Keeping Moles Away From Golf Courses
Although these methods are effective, they’re not foolproof. Keep in mind that no method is 100% effective, so there’s a chance that moles will find a way to get through. Moles may also be attracted to the scent of the traps and baits, so they may move in and eat the chemicals or seeds. If moles have become a problem on your golf course, it’s best to call a professional pest control company. Professionals have access to more effective chemicals that may work better than what you can buy at the store, and they can be more thorough with their techniques.
Final Thoughts
Moles are often found near golf courses, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with them. There are a few ways that you can keep moles away from your golf course, but it’s important to be consistent with your methods. Moles are territorial animals, so if you keep them away from your golf course, they won’t come back.
If you are having trouble getting rid of moles on your golf course, it’s best to call a professional. Keep in mind that while moles are frustrating, they don’t pose any real danger to people or animals. If you do see a mole on your golf course, leave it be! Moles are important mammals that keep the insect and worm population under control.
