Sonterra Water Summary

Water Summary
Prepared by Travis Moore, Director of Golf Course Maintenance
February 11, 2013
INTRODUCTION
The Director of Golf Course Maintenance at The Club at Sonterra is responsible for the
following areas: North Golf Course, South Golf Course, Clubhouse Grounds, and all
other outside areas within the Club’s property. These areas are composed of irrigated
turfgrass, non-irrigated turfgrass, ornamental beds, deciduous forest, grasslands, ponds,
wetlands, paved areas, and native or naturalized areas.
The purpose of this document is to summarize the water usage, systems, sources, and
government agencies associated with golf course and club grounds irrigation at The Club
at Sonterra. This document is for informational purposes only and has been created based
on the best information available to the Director of Golf Course Maintenance, Travis
Moore, as of January 2013.
BRIEF OVERVIEW
Sonterra relies on three sources of water for irrigation. These include: Edwards Aquifer
wells, Trinity Glen Rose Aquifer wells, and city water provided from San Antonio Water
Systems (SAWS). This water is distributed throughout the property by three irrigation
systems. These systems and their associated areas can be defined as – North Course,
South Course, and Clubhouse Grounds. The following sections provide area calculations
for each main area, detailed information on water sources and wells, discuss the irrigation
systems, and provide an overview of the water features located on property. In addition,
information will be provided on water restrictions, allotments, and necessary reporting.
1. Site Assessment
2. Water Sources and Wells
a. Well Summary
b. Edwards Aquifer
c. Trinity Glen Rose Aquifer
d. SAWS
3. Irrigation Systems
a. North Course
b. South Course
c. Clubhouse
4. Water Features
5. Regulatory Agencies and Restrictions
a. SAWS
b. EAA
c. TGRGCD
d. TWDB
6. Infrastructure needs and improvements
a. North Irrigation System
b. Wells
c. Water Features
d. Cost Summary
7. Important Contact Information and Tools
8. Quotes for Repair
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1. SITE ASSESSMENT
This section uses information from CourseVision to provide an assessment of all club
grounds based on satellite imagery. CourseVision can be opened in a separate
application and provides the user with several tools that aid in agronomic planning and
decision making. This data can also be provided to various government agencies.
Area Calculations and Turf Types formatted for Audubon International
3
Area Calculations from CourseVision
4
Area Calculations from CourseVision (Cont.)
5
2. WATER SOURCES
Sonterra relies on three main water sources for the purpose of irrigating club properties.
These sources are comprised of Edwards Aquifer wells, Trinity Glen Rose wells, and
water provided by San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS). Wells provide all of the water
used on both golf courses and approximately 30% of the water used to irrigate clubhouse
grounds. As such this section will focus primarily on the individual wells and all
available information associated with them. Well service records and specifications can
be found on file for most of our wells. Important - readings should be taken from
every active well on property on the last day of each month. These reading are
absolutely crucial in regards to budgeting and reporting of water usage. The
readings from 2011 and 2012 can be found on file in the Golf Course Maintenance
Office.
A. Well Summary
There are total of 9 wells located on property. Of these 9, only 7 have been active
in recent years. See Table Below
Active Wells
Status
Flow
Fill
Location
Importance
Not Working
220
gpm
9 North
Medium
9 North
High
12 South
High
12 South
Medium
12 South
High
1
“Main Cart
Path Well”
2
“Ladies Cart
Path Well”
Aquifer
Trinity
Glen
Rose
Trinity
Glen
Rose
3
“#5 Well”
Edwards
Working
4
“#6 Well”
Edwards
Not Working
5
“#7 Well”
Working
6
“#8 Well”
Working
200
gpm
9 North or
12 South
High
7
“#9 Well”
Old/Dead
Wells
Edwards
Trinity
Glen
Rose
Trinity
Glen
Rose
220
gpm
100
gpm
100
gpm
100
gpm
Not
Working**
250
gpm
9 North or
12 South
Low
NA
NA
Low
NA
NA
Low
1
“8 Dead Well”
2
“16 North”
Unsure
Trinity
Glen
Rose
Not Working
– 11/19/12
Not Working
– Never
Produced
Not Working
– Never
produced
6
South Course Wells
North Course Wells
7
B. Edwards Aquifer Wells
Sonterra has three wells in the Edwards Aquifer. These wells are all regulated by
the Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA), and are subject to all restrictions and
regulations imposed by EAA. In order to pump water from the Edwards Aquifer a
permit is required for each well, and a permit for a contracted amount of water
must be purchased. Currently Sonterra is permitted to withdraw 300 acre feet
(approximately 98 million gallons) assuming no drought restrictions. This water
can be withdrawn from three permitted wells on site. Water quality from these
wells can be considered good. All of Sonterra’s Edwards wells fill directly to the
lake on #12 South. This water can be transferred to the North irrigation lake using
the pump station (to be discussed later). Currently we are working to compile all
repair records for each individual well. These records will be stored in the Golf
Course Maintenance Office.
Individual Edwards Wells Details
#5 WellThe number five well is one of the oldest wells on
property. It is located next to the South Course
irrigation pump station. Unfortunately, there is
minimal data available on this well. It is believed to
have been drilled in 1959 by Kutcher Drilling for
Canyon Creek Golf Course. Currently this well
consistently produces between 70 and 130 GPM
based on aquifer levels. There are no repair records
available for this well. The meter passed inspection
by Fluid Meter Corporation in the fall of 2012.
#6 Well-
The number 6 well is believed to be the shallowest
well on property. This well was pulled in 2011 by
Peerless Equipment Company. Peerless determined
that the motor needs to be replaced. The pump,
motor (bad) and casing are stored on site at
Sonterra. A new meter has been purchased for this
well, but will not be installed until the well is
repaired. One reason that we have delayed repairs to
this well is that it is the shallowest well. Until the
aquifer returns to more normal levels (660ft or
above) it does not make much sense to repair. At
that time, the proper meter change forms must be
submitted to EAA. Also this well should not be run
concurrently with the #7 well as the proximity of
the two wells may cause too much draw down.
#7 Well-
The number seven well is located to the left of 7
fairway South, behind the irrigation controllers.
This well is similar in size and production to the #5
Well. There is minimal data available on this well.
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The meter was changed in 2012, and all paper work
was submitted to EAA. The meter number to this
well can be found on the flange.
C. Trinity Glen Rose Wells
Sonterra has four wells that have been active in recent years that draw from the
Trinity Glen Rose Aquifer. These wells are referred to as: #8 Well, #9 Well,
Ladies Tee Well, and Main Cart Path Well. The Ladies Tee Well and Main Cart
Path Well are registered with Trinity Glen Rose Groundwater Conservations
District (TGRGCD) and thus must follow all rules and regulation imposed by the
District. The #8 and #9 wells are located South of Loop 1604 and thus do not fall
under the jurisdiction of the TGRCD. Water quality is not as good as the Edwards
Aquifer, however is definitely suitable for irrigation. One of the biggest problems
with all of the Trinity Wells is that the water is corrosive to pumps, motors, and
casing. As a result these components will have significantly reduced service life
when compared to the Edwards Wells.
Individual Trinity Wells
#8 WellThe #8 Well is the newest and arguably the most important
well on property. This well is located to the left of the 8th
fairway on the South Course. The well was drilled in 2006
by Davenport Drilling. In order to obtain a permit to drill
this well it is my understanding that Sonterra had to agree
to no longer use the #9 Well. The #9 Well was supposed to
have been capped and taken out of service at the time that
the #8 Well became operational. When I arrived on
property in December 2010 the #8 Well was not
operational. In the spring of 2011 we repaired the well and
it has been operational ever since. This well provides and
average of 200gpm. This water can be delivered to either
the North or South irrigation lakes by opening and closing a
series of valves. Sonterra DOES NOT report usage of this
well to the TGRCD, and thus is NOT subject to the
restrictions and fees enforced by TGRCD. In summary,
Sonterra does not pay for water pumped from this well and
must only abide by the overall irrigation restrictions
enforced by SAWS (to be discussed later).
#9 Well-
The number 9 well is located to the left of the 9th hole on
the South Course. This Trinity well was last operational in
early 2011. It is believed to have a bad motor. Rather than
repairing this well in 2011, we decided to repair the #8
Well. As described above, to the best of my knowledge
Sonterra is no longer allowed to pump from the #9 Well,
and it was supposed to have been capped in 2006.
9
MCP Well-
The Main Cart Path well is located on the path that
connects the North Course to the South Course. This
Trinity well has not been operational during my tenure at
Sonterra. There are several repair records on file. We know
that the motor is bad, but will not know the extent of
repairs needed until the well is pulled. If repaired it can be
expected to produce at least 200gpm. It should also not be
run concurrently with the Ladies Tee Well. This well
delivers water only to the irrigation lake on the North
Course.
LT Well-
The Ladies Tee Well is located to the left of the ladies tee
box on #1 North. It worked without problems until
November 2012. Recent tests show that the motor is bad.
This well consistently produced around 200gpm and can be
considered of high importance. During my tenure we
pumped more water from this well than any other well on
property. This well also has several repair records on file.
The extent of the repairs needed will be determined when
this well is pulled.
D. SAWS Water
A small portion of our water supply comes directly from San Antonio Water
Systems. This water is used to irrigate most of the clubhouse grounds. This water
is metered and regulated by SAWS. The meter and main isolation valve is located
near the main entrance to the club. There is also an old pipe and valve box located
near the North Course pump station. The exact history is unknown; however it is
believed that at one time Sonterra had the option of sending water from SAWS
directly to the North irrigation lake via this 6” pipe. Currently there is no meter
and connection has been terminated. However, the connection could be renewed
by contacting SAWS, and possibly used as an emergency supply of water if
needed.
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3. IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
The irrigated areas at Sonterra are controlled by three separate irrigation systems. These
are referred to as: North Course, South Course, and Clubhouse. This section will give a
basic overview of the components of each system.
A. North Course Irrigation System
The North Course irrigation system can defined as a central control system. It
consists of an estimated 2000 individual irrigation heads that are controlled by 34
satellite boxes and a central computer located in the golf course maintenance
building. The system is pressurized by the North course pump station located at
the irrigation lake between holes 9 and 10. The overall condition of this irrigation
system is poor, and this system creates one of the biggest challenges to the
successful maintenance of the course.
• Sprinklers – Primarily Toro, several different models of 1” and 1.5” valve in
head sprinklers on standard threads. A few of the tees and other areas can also
be irrigated using residential style “pop up” heads. For the most part the
sprinklers are the original installation locations as seen on the as-built. The
overall condition of these heads can be described as poor.
• Pipes and Valves – The plumbing for this system is primarily original from
the mid 1980s and consists of PVC pipe sizes ranging from 1” to 8”. Theses
pipes are typically pressurized to 125 psi. The overall condition of pipes can
be described as poor. The majority of the isolation and mainline valves are
original and do not work. During my tenure we have replaced 15 to 20 valves.
• Satellites – The sprinklers are controlled by Rainbird Par+ and Rainbird Par +
ES controllers. The controllers communicate to the central computer using
wide band radio frequencies through the Freedom system. They can be
operated in the field from hand held radios or from the satellite. The overall
condition of these boxes can be described as poor.
• Central Computer – The central computer allows for programming and control
of the irrigation system from the Golf Course Maintenance Facility and runs
on Rainbird Nimbus II control software. This software allows for ET based
control. Sonterra has a contract with Rainbird through the GSP Service Plan.
This plan is set to expire in the Spring of 2013.
• As-Built – As-Builts or maps of the irrigation system are located at the Golf
Course Maintenance Facility. These maps show the system can piping as it
was originally installed. While helpful, they are often inaccurate and do not
reflect what is actually in the field. Digital copies of the maps were made in
2011 and are stored in the Golf Course Maintenance Facility.
• Pump Station – The North Course pump station underwent major repairs in
2012. Repairs included: leveling the slab, installation of two new pumps and
motors, installation of new skid and related components, replacement of three
mainline valves, installation of HDPE bypass location, and VFD controls. The
system is currently controlled by an OASIS PLC which controls 2 -75 hp
vertical turbine pumps and a 5hp PM pump. In February 2013, a new control
package will be installed which will allow for more flexible control and allow
for the use of a third 75hp pump. This third pump is a used pump that was
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reinstalled during the renovations. This project was approved in 2012 and will
cost approximately 23K.
B. South Course Irrigation System
The South Course irrigation system was completed replaced in 2008. It is
comprised of all Toro components. This system is in excellent condition, has
required minimal maintenance, and has allowed for substantial water saving.
• Sprinklers – All Toro DT50 and DT55 heads including dual heads on
greens. All heads are 1.5” and most are wired individually. These
heads also contain ACME threads.
• Satellites- The system consists of 18 E-Osmac satellites, which
communicate with the central computer through narrow band radio
frequencies. These satellites can be controlled from the central
computer or in the field using hand-held radios.
• Pipes and Valves – Pipes are in great condition, and all mainline and
isolation valves function properly.
• As-Built- As-Builts are accurate and are located in the Golf Course
Maintenance Facility
• Central Computer – The central computer is located at the Golf Course
Maintenance Facility and operates on Toro Lynx control software.
Sonterra subscribes to the Toro NSN support network. This contract is
set to expire in the spring of 2013.
• Pump Station – The South Course pump station was installed in 2008.
It is a Flowtronex station that utilizes three 75hp centrifugal pumps
and a 5hp PM pump. This station is located in the left rough on #5 and
is supplied by gravity feed from the irrigation lake located on #12.
• Transfer Options- The South Course pump station can be used to
transfer water from the South irrigation lake to the North Irrigation
Lake by opening a valve located in the deep rough left of #1 fairway
on the South Course. This valve is not listed on the as-built.
C. Clubhouse Irrigation System
The Clubhouse irrigation system is comprised of 10 separate irrigation
controllers. These controllers are residential styles and control a series of
zones surrounding the clubhouse, tennis courts, and parking lots. Detailed
descriptions of these zones can be found on file in the Golf Course
Maintenance office. There is no map or as built. Most of the infrastructure for
this system is original from the mid 1980s. The majority of water for this
system comes directly from SAWS and is metered at the entrance to the club.
Gary Tupa, our Horticulturalist, has the most knowledge of this system and
completed countless repairs during his tenure at Sonterra. A small portion of
the Clubhouse irrigation system is controlled by the North Course irrigation
system. For more information see a copy of the Annual Irrigation Check-Up
located in the Golf Course Maintenance office.
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4. WATER FEATURES
There are 5 water features on property at Sonterra. The following table illustrates the
location, function, and purpose of these features. Unfortunately there is minimal data
available on these features. The fountain for #9 North is currently stored at the Golf
Course Maintenance Facility.
Water
Features
High
High
Left of 7 fairway
Not Working
Motor tested bad in
2012
3
#17 Waterfall
#6 Waterfall
upper
#6 Waterfall
lower
Location
Front of 17
Green
High
4
#9 Fountain
Medium
Working
Not Working 2
years
Unsure
5
#12 South
Low
Front of 6 Green
Irrigation lake on
North
Irrigation lake on
South
1
2
Importance
Status
Problem
Working
Working
*Note: Use of water features is prohibited when under SAWS restrictions
1) #17 Waterfall – This waterfall is located at the end of 17 fairway and in front
of 17 green. It operates on a submersible pump and motor located in the small
holding pond at the end of the fairway. The power supply is located to the left
of the cart path in the rough. Care must be taken to ensure that the pond is
completely full before operating this feature. It is usually necessary to open
the pond fill valve (located in 17 fairway) slightly in order to provide a
“maintenance flow to this lake”. This well does have an automatic timer that
can be adjusted to desired run-times.
2) #6 Waterfall (Upper) – This waterfall is located near the ladies tee on #6 and
cascades down the cliff back into the pond on #6. It is visible from #6 Green
and is one of the signature water features at Sonterra. It is believed to operate
on a submersible pump and motor located at the Southeast corner of the pond.
The power supply is located to the left of 6 Green and is controlled by a small
VFD. The motor tested bad in 2012
3) #6 Waterfall (Lower) – This waterfall is located in front of 6 green and is
visible from both #6 tee and #6 green. The submersible pump and motor are
located in a small wet well in front of 6 green. Controls are located to the left
of 6green.
4) #9 Fountain – This water feature is a large floating fountain locacted in the
North Irrigation Lake. It has not worked in about two years. The controls are
located in the North Pump Station. The fountain, all components, and new
wire are located at the Golf Course Maintenance Facility.
5) # 12 Fountain – This small water fountain is located in the South Irrigation
Lake. The controls are located on the East end of the lake.
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5. REGULATORY AGENCIES
Water use at Sonterra is regulated and monitored by several agencies. The section will
briefly describe the role of these agencies and how they affect Sonterra. The agencies
include: San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS), Edwards Aquifer Authority (EAA),
Trinity Glen Rose Groundwater Conservation District (TGRCD), and Texas Water
Conservation Development Board (TWCDB). Sonterra employs an attorney to help deal
with these agencies and to ensure that we remain in compliance. Questions regarding any
of these agencies and Sonterra’s rights and responsibilities can be directed to Devin
“Buck” Benson with PULMAN, CAPPUCCIO, PULLEN & BENSON, LLP.
A. San Antonio Water Systems
SAWS has jurisdiction over all water used for irrigation purposes within the city
limits – regardless of the water source.
• Drought Restrictions – Sonterra must abide by all drought restrictions enacted
by SAWS for all irrigated areas at the club. These restrictions apply to
irrigation practices and overall usage – the DO NOT directly affect the
amount of water that Sonterra is allowed to withdraw from wells. EAA and
TGRGCD restrictions effect pumping rights. These restrictions are
categorized by stages and based on various J-17 aquifer levels. Details of the
restrictions can be found by visiting SAWS website at:
http://saws.org/Conservation/DroughtRestrictions/
• Drought Conservation Plan – When SAWS declares drought restrictions,
Sonterra and other golf courses are required to submit a drought conservation
plan to SAWS. A copy of the most recent drought conservation plan is located
in the Golf Course Maintenance Facility
• Variance Request – During drought restrictions Sonterra is required to file for
a variance request is special needs make following drought restrictions
impossible. For example, Sonterra submitted and received a variance request
in order to complete the grow-in of the North Greens in the summer of 2011.
A copy of this request is on file in the Golf Course Maintenance Office.
• Annual Irrigation Check-Up – Each year Sonterra is required to provide
SAWS with an Annual Irrigation Check-Up. This check up is similar to an
audit. The most recent version is on file in the Golf Course Maintenance
office and can easily be updated for future years.
B. Edwards Aquifer Authority
The EAA has jurisdiction over all Edwards Aquifer Wells. Sonterra must have
current permits and contracts to withdrawal water from all Edwards wells on
property. In addition, Sonterra must abide by all rules and restrictions enacted by
EAA. Sonterra is currently authorized to pump 300 acre feet at a cost of $84 per
acre ft. Sonterra is initially charged for the entire 300 acre feet regardless of the
actual amount withdrawn. There is however, a rebate program at the end of the
year provides a refund $47 per acre foot of unused water.
• Permit information
o Groundwater Permit
 Permit# - P100-510
 Entity# - E103-784
 Entity Name – WSG Club at Sonterra IV. L.P.
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 Authorized amount – 300 acre feet
o Well Permits
 #5 Well Permit # - W100-405
 #6 Well Permit # - W100-406
 #7 Well Permit # - W100-407
• Drought Restrictions – Similar to SAWS, EAA enacts drought restrictions
(termed - Critical Period) based on various J-17 Aquifer levels. However,
these restrictions to do not affect how, when, or where irrigation is applied.
These restrictions reduce the amount of water that Sonterra is allowed to
pump based on the permitted amount. More information on these restrictions
can be found by visiting EAA website at: www.edwardsaquifer.org. There are
also several tools on the site that document and manage Sonterra’s EAA
water.
• Critical Period Reporting – When EAA enacts Critical Period restrictions,
permit holders are required to submit monthly usage reports to the EAA.
These forms can be found on EAA’s website. In addition, all past Critical
Usage Reports are on file in the Golf Course Maintenance Office.
• Groundwater Conservation Plan – Must be submitted every three years
• Additional Forms – The EAA requires certain forms to be filed when changes
to wells are made. The most common is the Meter Change Form. If changes
are made to a meter then the EAA must be notified immediately. Previous
meter change forms are on file in the Golf Course Maintenance Office.
• Annual Usage – Sonterra is also required to submit a form summarizing the
total usage for each permitted well. These forms are also on file dating back to
2003 in the Golf Course Maintenance Office.
C. Trinity Glen Rose Groundwater Conservation District
There are currently only two wells on property that fall under the jurisdiction of
the TGRGCD – The Main Cart Path Well and The Ladies Tee Well. The
TGRGCD is much less structured than EAA or SAWS. To my knowledge, there
is no set permitted amount of water, and reporting is required monthly primarily
for billing purposes. Sonterra currently pays $22 per acre foot of water pumped
from these wells based on monthly usage. Sonterra does not receive an invoice
from TGRGCD. It is the responsibility of the Director of Golf Course
Maintenance to fill out a Microsoft Word Document each month that serves as an
invoice. This invoice is then submitted to Sonterra’s accounting department for
payment. A copy of the invoice is also submitted to TGRGCD. Drought
restrictions under TGRCD are also not as structured as other agencies. The
TGRCD does have their own restrictions; however they have informed Sonterra
that as long as we are complying with EAA and SAWS then we are complying
with TGRCD.
D. Texas Water Development Board
Sonterra is required to complete an annual survey of water usage for the TWDB.
This form can be completed and submitted online at:
www.twdb.texas.gov/waterplanning/waterusesurvey/survey/printable.asp
The form must be submitted by March 1st of the next year.
Important – Current username – sonterra, Current password – sonterra1!
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6. INFASTRUCTURE NEEDS, IMPROVEMENTS, and PROBLEMS
While much progress has been made over the last two years, there are still much needed
improvements that must be completed to the various components involved in Sonterra’s
use of water. This section will summarize the improvements needed base on their specific
areas. Approximate costs are provided when available.
A. North Course Irrigation System
The ageing North Course irrigation system is the single most challenging
component of successfully maintaining the properties at Sonterra. While it is not
feasible at this time to completely replace the system, plans should be made to
make this a long-term goal. The suggested improvements below are made with
both long and term short improvements in mind.
• Pump Station – Major improvements were made to the pump station in 2012.
These improvements have allowed Sonterra to more efficiently irrigate the
North Course and should provide benefits for years to come. The final phase
of this project was approved in November 2012 and should be completed in
February 2013. This final phase will consists of installing new control
package and will cost approximately 23K. The only area that remains
questionable when discussing the North Course pump station is the wet well.
During the renovation in 2012, we attempted to sleeve the aging corrugated
flume pipe with HDPE. This operation was unsuccessful due to blockage in
the existing pipe. It is unclear as to what exactly caused the blockage,
however we are certain that the corrugated pipe is badly decayed. Fortunately,
water is still able to flow freely through the pipe and we have pumped around
1000gpm with little to no draw down in the wet well. Hopefully, it will remain
intact for years to come, however if it fails the entire North Course will be
completely without water. Currently the only option available to rectify this
problem is to completely drain the lake and to install a new flume pipe. This
option will be expensive and can be considered a major project. It is my
opinion that repairing the flume pipe should be part of a long term plan to
completely renovate the North Irrigation Lake.
• GPS Mapping – The North Course is irrigated by an estimated 2000 sprinkler
heads. The current As-Built does not provide an adequate map of these heads.
GPS mapping can be considered a major improvement for the following
reasons:
o Will allow for reprogramming of the irrigation system resulting in
better use of our irrigation software and ultimately major water
savings
o Relatively inexpensive improvement – 7K to 10K
o Can be completed without disrupting current operations
• Narrow Band Conversion- The North Course radio frequencies for irrigation
operation and communication currently operate on wide-band. As of January
2013 all FCC licenses involving wide band radio frequencies must be
converted to narrow band. Unfortunately, this will result in substantial costs to
Sonterra. There are several options listed below
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•
•
o OPTION A- Replace only certain components in the existing satellite
boxes. Of the 34 satellites 22 will require replacement radios in order
to be capable of receiving narrow band radio frequencies. In addition
the repeater must be replaced. An initial quote from AMC industries
indicated that this option will cost a minimum of 20K. The current
condition of the satellite boxes can be considered poor at best. The
investment of 20K will only minimally improve the condition and
operation of these boxes. If the goal is solely to become compliant
with the new FCC regulations, then this option provides the fastest and
cheapest route.
o OPTION B- Install Toro Osmac RDR conversion assemblies to all 34
satellites. This option will allow for substantial improvement in the
operation of the North Course irrigation system while becoming FCC
compliant. The RDR system will essentially convert the system from
Rainbird to Toro, and result in a new central computer and complete
re-programming. It will however, still utilize many of the components
in the existing Rainbird boxes. Initial quotes from PTP estimate that
the costs will be between 110K and 115K.
o OPTION C- Replace all Rainbird satellites with Toro E-Osmac
satellites. This is best and most expensive option. Under this plan all of
the aging Rainbird satellites will be replaced with completely new
Toro satellites. A new central computer will be installed and the all
aspects will be completely re-programmed. This option provides the
best long term solution. These satellites combined with the pump
station renovations and GPS mapping will help Sonterra succeed for
years to come. If the day comes to replace the entire irrigation system
the pump station and new satellite boxes can be utilized. PTP estimates
this option will cost between 135K and 150K
North Irrigation Lake- The North Irrigation Lake has been a problem for
several years. It is an eyesore for the entire club, and is suspected of losing
water. A long term plan should include completely renovating this lake and its
perimeter.
Cost Summary – In order of importance
1
2
3
4
5
GPS Mapping
Replace Satellites with Option C
Renovate Irrigation Lake
Repair Flume Pipe
Replace remainder of irrigation system (pipes, valves,
heads)
$7,500
$150,000
TBD
TBD
TBD
Note: The above costs do not reflect the final phase of the North Pump
Station renovations approved in 2012. These components will be installed
on February 18, 2013 at a cost of approximately $23,000.
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B. Wells
Century Golf has spent a tremendous amount of money on well repairs since
acquiring the property in 2006. This section will describe the issues facing our
wells, current problems, and solutions.
1) Why are we always having well problems?
a. Poor water quality in the Trinity Glen Rose – corrosive water results in
reduced life span of pipes, pumps, motors, check valves, etc.
b. Inconsistent/poor quality power. - This varies based on the location of
the individual wells. In 2011, I worked with Alterman Electric to give
us a proposal to update/repair/improve all of the electrical on our end.
This includes not only the pump controls, but the power lines which
we are responsible for maintaining. The majority of our electrical
controls on wells and water features are outdated. In addition, we
constantly have incoming power problems. Usually these are the result
of spikes or rolling brown outs. We are at the end of line from our
power provider CPS; resulting in increased spikes associated with
lighting or other power issues.
c. Aquifer levels vary greatly year to year - This can result in increased
wear and tear on pumps and motors. In addition, it can result in more
trash, debris, or silt around the pumps.
d. Overuse – To my knowledge, never have all of the wells been
functioning at the same time. This results in individual wells being run
24/7 in order to keep up with demand. If more wells were operational,
run times could be shared resulting in longer component life for all the
wells.
e. Age – Many of the wells were drilled decades ago. Most of the casing,
well heads, and other components are original.
2) Current Well Problems
a. Ladies Tee Well- As mentioned earlier in this document, the Ladies
Tee Well currently shows to have a bad motor. This well has been the
highest producing well during my time at Sonterra, and this well
should be the highest priority to repair. We currently have a quote
from Alsay Drilling to pull this well and diagnose the problems. In
addition, once the well is repaired additional funds should be used to
provide better motor protection – such as a Subtrol.
b. Main Cart Path Well – The Main Cart path well also shows to have a
bad motor. In my opinion it is worth having Alsay Drilling pull this
well at the same time as the Ladies Tee Well.
c. #6 Well- This well is our shallowest Edwards well. It has already been
pulled and we know that the motor is bad.
d. Controls and Protection- Currently the #8 Well is the only well with
modern motor protection. The outdated starters, controls, and motor
protection on the other wells should be replaced as soon as possible to
help prevent future problems.
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3) Solutions and Cost
a. Pull both the Ladies Tee Well and Main Cart Path well - $4600
b. Repair at least the Ladies Tee Well or the Main Cart Path Well as
soon as possible. If the motor is actually bad, I am estimating costs to
be around 15K per well in addition to the $4600 for pulling.
c. Update all electrical controls and protection. According to proposal
from Alterman Electric in 2011 there are several improvements that
should be made to protect our investment in all of our wells. These
improvements include repairs and modifications not only to the wells
but to the power sources that supply them. These repairs will not
eliminate problems, but will definitely reduce risks. An updated quote
must be provided however we are looking at an initial investment of
around 15K.
d. Repair the #6 Well. I am estimating the cost of replacing the motor and
reinstalling the well to be around 10K.
e. Well Repair Cost Summary – In order of importance
1
2
3
4
5
Pull Main Cart Path and
Ladies Tee Well
Repair Ladies Tee Well
Repair Main Cart Path
Well
Repair all electrical
issues
Repair #6 Well
$4,600
$15,000
$15,000
$15,000
$10,000
C. Water Features
Currently there are two important water features that are not working – the #6
Upper Water fall and the #9 Fountain.
1) #6 Upper Waterfall. This feature is operated by a submersible pump and
motor located to the left of 7 fairway. The motor tested bad in 2012. This can
be considered of high importance as it is one of the trademark features of
Sonterra. I have been unable to find a contractor willing to work on this
problem to date. We can estimate that the motor is between 15hp and 20hp
and will cost approximately 8K to replace.
2) #9 Fountain. This water feature worked in early 2011. The exact problem is
not known at this date. New wire was purchased in 2011 and it is stored along
with the rest of the components at the Golf Course Maintenance Facility. We
are currently working to determine replacement costs.
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D. Infrastructure Cost and Priority Summary
The following tables separate the short and long term needs of Sonterra’s water
systems based on priority.
Short Term Needs and Costs
Priority
1
2
3
4
Item
Pull MCP and
LCP Wells
Scope of Work
Alsay Drilling will pull the LTW and MCP and
diagnose problems
Well Repair
Narrow Band
Conversion
Repair the Ladies Tee Well
Choose one of the options listed above (A,B, or C)
Contract map all heads and re-program North
irrigation system
5
GPS Mapping
Repair #6
Waterfall
6
Well Repair
Repair the Main Cart Path Well
7
#9 Fountain
Repair or replace fountain in North Irrigation Lake
Estimated
Cost
$4,600
$15,000
TBD (20 to
150K)
Pull pump and motor from lake, replace motor
Quote
Available
Yes
No
Yes
$7,500
Yes
$8,000
No
$15,000
No
$5,000
No
Long Term Needs and Costs
Priority
1
2
3
4
Item
Upgrade
Electrical
Renovate North
Irrigation Lake
Repair Flume
Pipe
Replace North
Irrigation
System
Scope of Work
Alterman Company makes several repairs to
protect wells and motors
Completely renovate all aspects of North Irrigation
Lake
To be completed during lake renovation, Replace
with HDPE
Completely replace irrigation system (satellites and
pump station excluded)
Estimated
Cost
$15,000
Quote
Available
Yes
TBD
No
TBD
No
TBD
No
Note: The above costs do not reflect the final phase of the North Pump Station renovations
approved in 2012. These components will be installed on February 18, 2013 at a cost of
approximately $23,000.
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7. IMPORTANT CONTACT, TOOLS, and WEBSITES
• Contacts
o Devin “Buck” Benson – Buck is the attorney contracted to coordinate all
of Sonterra’s water needs and issues with various regulatory agencies. He
is a parner with Pulman, Cappuccio, Pullen, and Benson, LLP. He can be
reached at:
 Office - 210-222-9494 ext. 122
 Cell – 210-725-9658
 Email – [email protected]
o Mark Peterson – Mark is our contact at SAWS that we direct drought
restriction questions to. He can also aid in obtaining variance request and
handle questions related to the Annual Irrigation Audit Check Up. Most
importantly, if there is a need to temporarily violate drought restrictions
(i.e. watering in fertilizer during the day) Mark should be contacted via
email or cell prior to watering.
 Cell- 210-852-9990
 Email- [email protected]
o Isabel Martinez- Isabel works for the EAA in the Critical Period Office.
Critical period reports can be mailed in however, in the past we have
emailed a copy of the report to Isabel.
 Email- [email protected]
o George Wissmann- George is our contact with the TGRGCD. All
reporting is sent through him via email.
 Office- 210-219-5555
 Cell- 210-698-1155
 Email- [email protected]
o Peerless Equipment – Peerless has completed the bulk of the repairs to
the wells at Sonterra over the last five years. In 2013, they informed
Sonterra that they would no longer be completing work for golf courses.
We are currently working to obtain all service records.
o PMT Services – Ric Martinez and his two sons, Rick Jr. and Rangel, have
completed all of the pump station work at Sonterra for several years. They
can be reached at
 Rick Sr – 512-743-7867
 Rick Jr – 512-743-7869
 Rangel – 512-402-4137
• Websites and Tools
o www.saws.org – Important information regarding drought restrictions can
be found via SAWs website
o www.edwardsaquifer.org- There is a ton of information provided on
EAA’s website. In addition to drought restrictions, there are tools that help
the user calculate Critical Period adjustments.
o http://wiid.twdb.state.tx.us/ims/wwm_drl/viewer.htm?- This website
provides interactive mapping and data for all registered wells in Texas
o Google Earth – provides interactive maps and GPS coordinates of wells
o CourseVision – Area calculations, and other course information
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