Golf course planning and development

Essay text:

Size of property: - usually 120-130 acres for a 18-course on a flat site with few facilities (minimum) - depends on the terrain, might need bigger areas Shape of property: - irregular shaped are more interesting and safe > square/rectangular shaped - road crossing reduce attractiveness - north-south orientation is preferred, avoid the morning/afternoon sun Topography: - both sloping and flat areas, with tees, greens and fairway adapted to the contour of the land - the best holes will drop in elevation from tee to landing area and landing area to green ? golfer can easily see the hole, play faster and enjoyable Natural Hazards: - hazards such as streams, ponds, ravines and rolling terrain - makes it more interesting, challenging and aesthetic - natural hazards reduce construction cost for artificial ones Soil characteristic: - drainage problem and wet conditions reduce the number of rounds played - revenues are reduced, maintenance fee is high - never have too much top soil, topsoil are usually removed, place at other areas - BEST: well-drained, sandy loam Vegetation: - enhance the visual and ecological appeal - provide compatible recreational activities - minimize the clearing of natural woods Clearing required: - cost of site clearing is dependent on the type of vegetation to be cleared and how easily it can be disposed Market: - depends on 4 factors: o relationship within the project between golf and real estate o ability levels and diversity of players o overall level of demand o Frequency of play by the same group of users (regular customer?) Land cost: - $3...