When we remove a bunker, it is our goal to make it seem as though the bunker never existed. We prefer this plan of action for three reasons: playability, durability and aesthetics. When we address the topic of playability, we are talking about the fact that we don't have any sod bunkers on the golf course. We do not believe that just a few sod bunkers scattered around the course would be our desired flow for a golf game at Stillmeadow Country Club. We desire consistency and we feel that if we would be unable to quickly make sod bunkers a "theme" all the way around the course, then there would be no reason to have just one or even a few. It's just not consistent. The next reason was durability. If you allow an area to surface drain it will always be a more durable situation than relying on drainage. In many cases sod bunkers still require drainage as they typically sit lower than the surrounding grade. This means drainage instillation and maintenance. In addition to unwanted drainage, it can be very difficult and often unsuccessful to construct a sod bunker that is easily mowable and that has enough topsoil cap for a healthy root zone; especially through the summer months. In many cases, sod bunkers are prone to burn up and have dead grass during the summer. Lastly, is the topic of aesthetics. Along with a playable, consistent course, we also desire a aesthetically consistent one.
We will continue to evaluate our bunkers daily to decide the best plan of action as it pertains to the improvement or removal of all bunkers around the course.
Removal
Seeding
2 Weeks
3 Weeks
4 Weeks
5 Weeks
6 Weeks
