As a golf course superintendent, and equally as a golfer, I don’t like traffic control devices.
However, as a golf course superintendent my primary responsibility is to provide the golfers at my facility with the best possible playing conditions, as well as a golf course that is aesthetically pleasing (healthy turfgrass). With that in mind, traffic control devices are a necessity.
Although the game dates back centuries, golf changed dramatically in 1962, when Merlin L. Halvorson invented the first self-propelled golf "car". Prior to this, golfers either walked with a caddie, pulled a golf "cart", or carried their own bag.
Note: Originally, and technically still a golf "car," today the vehicle Mr. Halvorson created is often referred to as a golf "cart."
Note: Originally, and technically still a golf "car," today the vehicle Mr. Halvorson created is often referred to as a golf "cart."
The golf car has obviously been beneficial in making the game more accessible to the masses, and it has enabled those with physical or medical limitations to continue enjoying the sport and the numerous benefits of being on a golf course. Golf cars are also a much needed source of revenue for most facilities.
While the benefits outweigh the negatives, golf car usage can come at a cost. That cost is the detrimental effect on the quality of the playing surface. In addition, at times the overall aesthetics of the golf course can be tarnished by golf car usage. Concentrated traffic produces multi-component stress to turfgrass. The problems associated with golf car traffic are reduced turfgrass vigor, soil compaction, ruts and other surface disruption.
While the benefits outweigh the negatives, golf car usage can come at a cost. That cost is the detrimental effect on the quality of the playing surface. In addition, at times the overall aesthetics of the golf course can be tarnished by golf car usage. Concentrated traffic produces multi-component stress to turfgrass. The problems associated with golf car traffic are reduced turfgrass vigor, soil compaction, ruts and other surface disruption.
Soil compaction is a “hidden effect” and it’s extremely detrimental to turfgrass because of the destruction of the underlying soil. In laymen terms, compaction presses soil particles together eliminating air and water space. Compaction reduces or eliminates the plants ability to maintain and create roots, which are needed for survival. The end result of excessive soil compaction is a weakened or thin stand of turfgrass, and if not mitigated, eventual death. If the area is on a slope, erosion is a secondary issue that must be addressed.
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| The continual golf car traffic in this area has caused unsightly wear, and at the base, extreme soil compaction. The result is not only a decline in aesthetics, but also thin/dead turfgrass at the toe of slope. Erosion will be secondary problem. |
To add to the challenge of traffic stress, when play in Southwest Florida is at its peak (winter), the turfgrass is also growing the least due to shorter days (less sunlight) and cooler than desirable air and soil temperature.
When the concept of creating Olde Florida originated, golf and housing development construction in Southwest Florida were booming, and the demand exceeded the areas ability to provide access to golf. This is why the founders of Olde Florida wanted a non-residential golf course, a reasonable membership number, limited member or outside events that would restrict access, etc. In summary, the goal was a club of ladies and gentlemen who had a respect for the traditions of the game and ultimately a facility where few written rules would be needed.
It was also important for the founders to have a facility that allowed, and even encouraged walking by having caddies available. In the early years, 1/3 of the rounds in the winter were walking rounds. At that time, with a less than full membership and a significant amount of play being walking, golf cart traffic was not a significant issue.
While every golf course is different, turfgrass on all golf courses can be damaged by golf cars. This is why the United States Golf Association (USGA) established some general guidelines for facilities to adopt.
In addition to site specific situations;
1. Golf cars should not be parked or driven on the turfgrass surrounding tees and greens. All four tires should should remain on the path.
2. Golf cars should remain on the path on par 3 holes.
3. On par 4 and 5 golf holes, once beyond the tee, golfers should spread traffic over a wide area.
4. In situations, when paths are not available golf cars should remain at least 30 feet away from tees and greens.
5. When possible golfers should share a golf car.
6. Finally, golf cars should never be driven on collars, approaches or green banks.
This is a link to a series of articles the USGA has compiled on golf car related issues
The bottom line is most damage caused by golf cars can be minimized when drivers use common sense, and observe etiquette. All golfers should be aware of the damage that vehicles cause and take steps to reduce the damage to preserve the condition of the golf course, the facilities most important asset.
The bottom line is most damage caused by golf cars can be minimized when drivers use common sense, and observe etiquette. All golfers should be aware of the damage that vehicles cause and take steps to reduce the damage to preserve the condition of the golf course, the facilities most important asset.
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