The grounds staff removed the trees on the 9th/18th hole that were damaged in the storm surges. The Green Committee is in the process of developing a plan to select replacement trees and restore the character that the damaged trees added to the hole. They were not specimens trees, but they did screen the view of the range fairway from the 18th fairway, and could come into play for an errant shot off of the 9th tee.
As we begin the replacement process we will:
- Determine what, if any, value the trees added to the hole
- Identify the value of the remaining trees and their contribution to the hole
- Define how the trees should contribute to the hole in the future (framing, penalize poor shots, safety)
- Use Google Earth to take measurements to determine who is more likely to be impacted by the replacement trees
- Consult with USGA agronomists and local arborists for replacement options
- Contact suppliers to determine cost and availability of suitable replacement species.
The link below describes some of the characteristics that should be avoided when selecting trees for use on a golf course. Too often committees opt for rapid growth over long term stability. Support for this can be found in the white pines that were planted throughout the course, and now have damaged or missing limbs due to snow or wind storms. A better approach is to examine the health and long term viability of the remaining trees. This information can be used to design a replacement plan that will provide an attractive, functional planting that will add character and strategic interest to the golf hole. This might involve a short term planting plan combined with future phases of removal and replacement as the desirable trees mature and fill the space.
We will post updates as we get closer to a solution.
MAN'S FRIEND OR GOLF'S ENEMY?
A Guide for Selecting and Planting Golf Course Trees
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