Localized Dry Spots

Year after year, you're seeing a brown patch develop in the same spot. You've checked and you are definitely watering the area correctly. The shape of the brown patch is inconsistent with a fungal issue. What could it possibly be? There's a chance it's a "localized dry spot (LDS)," also known as a "hot spot," or "hot pocket" (delicious). These patches are caused by a build-up of bicarbonate that keep water from penetrating into the soil where it's needed. How do you know if localized dry spots are your problem? And what can you do about them?