On the heels of the recent U.S. Open at Merion last week and
recent conversations leading up to the Member/Guest, I wanted to address the
tall grass around multiple areas of the course.
In 2007 when the course was renovated the environmental governing bodies
who helped us mitigate the project, wanted to see some of our property used to
become more environmentally conscious using native areas that would be designed
with a limited environmental impact.
Golf course architect Tim Liddy felt the tall fescue grass
areas would enhance his design and incorporated them into out of play areas
around bunkers, tee boxes and under tree lines.
After the project there were other areas that fit into the design and
were added in accordance with Mr. Liddy’s vision. These areas currently receive limited pesticides,
fertilizer applications and weekly maintenance that decrease our environmental
footprint.
It is important to note that there are multiple high end
clubs around this country and Europe that integrate this classic natural look
into their design and maintenance regime.
Clubs ranked in the Top 25 of Golf Digest such Shinnecock Hills (#4),
Merion East (#6), Sand Hills Golf Club (#9), National Golf Links (#11) and
Prairie Dunes (#25) have a similar look, and have hosted multiple Major
Championships.
I realize we create our own identity, but please be assured
this topic has been discussed at multiple Board of Directors, Greens Committee
and Golf Committee Meetings, and I have the support of the Club leadership to
continue our current efforts. Please be
assured we are at the height of the cool season grass season and these areas
will eventually thin out and become more manageable if a ball is hit into these
low maintenance areas.
Respectfully Submitted,
Matt Boyce
Golf Course Superintendent
The Princess Anne Country Club
