Intern's View: Sand Trap Improvements

As some of you may have noticed, we have begun the process of improving the bunkers. We begin by taking deep pockets of sand in the bunker and transferring it to the shallow portions of the bunker. We then go through the process of wetting it down, compacting it, adding new sand, and finally raking it out so it is aesthetically pleasing and fully playable. If you come across the staff working in a bunker it may be treated as ground under repair.


I would like to take a moment and explain that this is only a temporary fix. The master plan outlines new sand traps throughout the course. Many factors play a part in this decision. Some of those factors being the size of the bunker, the location, and the drainage of the bunker for example. Bunkers are much more than holes in the ground filled with sand. When constructed properly they can be a work of art designed to enhance playability. Hit em' straight and enjoy the new bunkers.

Mike Martic - 2011 Vail Golf Club Intern
Rutgers University