Parks managers can capitalize on one of their biggest assets—the golf course—and make the most of green space by remodeling existing layouts, according to an article in the January, 2011 issue of “Parks & Recreation” magazine.
Here are some trends in remodeling:
- Reduce maintained turfgrass: According to Andy Staples, ASGCA Associate, holes can maintain their strategic intent but have less turfgrass to water, fertilize and mow when maintained turfgrass is removed and replaced with drought-resistant native plantings.
- Introduce enhanced practice facilities and “looping threes”: Ninety-seven percent of ASGCA members surveyed say they are improving or expanding practice facilities to help operators draw more players. Another trend is to remodel a course to include two, three or even more “looping threes,” which allow a time-constrained player the flexibility to play three or six holes.
- Lose the bunkers: Converting some formal sand bunkers to fairway or turfgrass-based natural landforms helps the bottom line in two ways: sand bunker maintenance is reduced and pace of play increases when players spend less time shooting out of hazards.
For more information on remodeling trends, visit the National Recreation and Parks Association website.
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