Hobbit’s Glen Drainage Project

The drainage system originally installed in the #10 fairway has deteriorated over time and is no longer functioning as designed. The failure of this system has led to persistent wet conditions, poor turf performance, and maintenance inefficiencies. Without effective drainage, surface water accumulates, leading to soft turf, compaction, disease pressure, and ultimately a decline in playability and aesthetic quality.

Recent drainage work on hole #2 serves as a proven model for success. There, modern drainage techniques have significantly improved water movement and turf performance. This upgraded system has been highly effective at removing excess moisture, keeping the fairway firm and playable even after heavy rains.

However, this improved drainage on hole #2 redirects water downhill—toward hole #10. The influx of additional runoff now places even greater strain on the already failing drainage system in #10, exacerbating the issues. Without intervention, conditions will continue to decline, especially during wet seasons.

By replacing the outdated drainage infrastructure with modern systems, we can restore proper function to the fairway, improve turf health, and ensure that this critical part of the course meets the expectations of our members and guests.

Zoysiagrass has been selected as the turf of choice for the #10 fairway due to its superior performance characteristics, especially under the unique environmental conditions found in that location:

• Shade Tolerance: Hole #10 is the most shaded fairway on the course due to surrounding tree coverage. Many common fairway turfgrasses—such as bermudagrass—struggle in these low-light conditions, leading to thin, weak turf. Zoysiagrass, however, maintains density and vigor even under partial shade, making it ideal for this site.
• Proven Success on Site: We have already tested Zoysiagrass in similar conditions—specifically on the shaded portion of hole #2. The results have been excellent, with the turf showing strong establishment, resilience, and consistent performance throughout the growing season.
• Disease Resistance and Drought Tolerance: Zoysia is naturally more resistant to several common turf diseases and requires less irrigation once established. This reduces both chemical and water input, aligning with sustainability goals and improving long-term maintenance efficiency.
• Playability: Zoysiagrass offers excellent surface conditions—firm yet cushioned, with consistent ball lies. It integrates well with existing fairway turf where transitions occur and maintains a pleasing aesthetic.

Timing is critical for the successful establishment of Zoysiagrass.

• Warm-Season Establishment: Zoysia is a warm-season turfgrass that thrives and roots best during the hot months of summer when soil temperatures are consistently high. Installing it outside of this optimal window—such as late fall or winter—dramatically reduces the chances of successful establishment.
• Dormant Sodding Limitations: We have previously attempted dormant sodding of Zoysiagrass here at the club, and it was not established successfully. This experience confirms that trying to install the turf when it is not actively growing is a high-risk endeavor with potentially costly and time-consuming consequences.
• Minimizing Disruption: By scheduling the project during the summer, we can ensure that the grass has the full growing season to establish. Although this coincides with the golfing season, the long-term benefits of healthy, functional turf far outweigh the short-term inconvenience.