Much of the northern part of the United States experienced warm temperatures through Christmas providing a present to golfers of an extended season.  Now that winter has arrived to ring in the New Year, it is a good time to look at some general agronomic conditions that can influence winter golfing play.  

1) Play on dry unfrozen soil - Although wear injury is always a potential problem this is situation will result in the least damage.

2) Play on frozen soil - Most likely will result in wear injury to the turf but little soil compaction.

3) Play on wet, unfrozen soil - The potential damage under his scenario is significant soil compaction can occur but less wear injury.