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management infrastructure overhauled,
while also unifying and modernizing
the features of the course.
“Even following typical rainfall events,
play would grind to a halt due to slow
moving surface drainage and saturated
turf,” says Martin. “In addition to
these water issues, complications for
maintenance, operations and golfer
enjoyment arose from disjointed
circulation, overgrown vegetation,
and course elements that had been
built in various decades. These factors
contributed to limit the amount and
quality of play, with golfer satisfaction
beginning to suffer as a result.”
Martin expanded the site’s
stormwater management capacity
by improving both the overland
and underground drainage systems.
Greens were also reconstructed in
line with USGA recommendations. As
a result, water quality has improved
and, with expanded wetlands, the
natural habitat has increased. The
environmental benefit is matched by
an improvement in the quality of golf,
with the program also incorporating
expanded teeing areas, better located
hazards, and reduced bunker square
footages. Together the changes improve
playability, provide more strategy and
reduce maintenance requirements.
Mike Matchen, director of golf
at Wilmette, is delighted with the
results: “The Wilmette Park District
could not have asked for anything
more. The final result for our
investment is amazing. Not only
have we gone a long way to solving
our infrastructure issues, but have a
brand new golf course in the process.
Improved overland and underground drainage at
Wilmette Golf Club in Illinois is helping to keep the
course in play after heavy rainfall