Resource Center

Bunkers
How do I choose the right bunker sand?
Selecting the best sand for your bunker project is extremely important, but often confusing. What infiltration rate does your sand need to drain properly? Does the shape of the sand matter? What penetrometer value will your players prefer?

To learn about the variables involved in sand selection read “How To Select The Best Sand For Your Bunkers” written by Dr. Moore of the USGAA®.

For more information about finding, selecting, and inspecting bunker sand, check out this older, but still relevant article titled, “Selecting and Handling Sand.”

How do labs analyze bunker sand? What do the lab tests mean?
What tests to laboratories run to evaluate the quality of bunker sand? How well do the tests predict the playability of the sand I want to install on my course? Learn the answers to these questions in, “Physical Analysis of Sands for Golf Course Bunker Use” by Jim Skorulski.

How can I evaluate the quality of my bunkers?
Learn about the factors that affect bunker performance. Create a score card for your bunkers. Start with the suggestions in “Help Your Bunkers Make The Grade” by Chris Hartwiger.

How can I fix eroding bunker faces?
Are your bunkers elevated or shallow with sand covering the bank? If these types of bunkers often experience washouts, this article on How To Rebuild Eroding Bunker Faces may help reduce maintenance and improve bunker playability.

How long should my bunker sand last?
The expected life-cycle of golf course bunkers is 5-7 years, according to the ASGCA. Source: http://www.asgca.org

Greens
Do I really need to topdress my greens?
Thinking about skipping your next scheduled greens areation and topdressing application? You’d better think twice. Read what Senior USGA Green Section Agronomist Bob Vavrek writes about managing organic matter in the upper soil profile.

USGA Agronomist Todd Lowe writes, “Sand topdressing is not a new practice, having been used by Old Tom Morris at St. Andrews. Yet, it seems that we continue to talk about this misunderstood practice to golfers each year. Some golfers believe that it disrupts playing conditions, when in fact it improves playability..” Read his article, Sand Is Good For The Game.

Should I rebuild my greens?
Do I need to rebuild my greens? How much will it cost? How long will it take? Are you sure I need to rebuild my greens? Answering these questions correctly is critical to the life of your golf course. To gain some insight on how to tackle this difficult issue, watch this video by USGA Green Section Agrnonmist Jim Moore.

How long should my greens last?
The expected life-cycle of golf course greens is 15-30 years, according to the ASGCA. Source: http://www.asgca.org

Tees
How long should my tees last?
The expected life-cycle of golf course tee boxes is 15-20 years, according to the ASGCA. Source: http://www.asgca.org