Flood coverage can become a handy tool for golf course owners looking to protect their course from hazardous weather. A golf course may seem like this considerable, impregnable tract of land, but when a heavy rain comes, it becomes just as vulnerable as any other establishment to the storm’s effects. In one night, the once pristine greens, tees, and fairways can transform into waterlogged areas that harbor disease-carrying insects. Flooding poses health risks to employees and golf cart owners, leading to accidents and costly legal claims.
That’s where flood insurance coverage comes in. We will discuss this specialized insurance and share valuable information on effectively preparing a golf course for the impending storm.
Flooding Insurance
Flood insurance can against property damage and financial losses caused explicitly by flooding. Aside from heavy or prolonged rain, this insurance can also compensate for damages caused by coastal storm surges, blocked storm drainage systems, melting snow, or even the failure of levee dams.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) typically covers flood insurance in the United States, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers it.
Unlike a standard homeowners policy, it requires the purchase of separate policies to provide coverage for both the dwelling and its contents.
Additionally, a separate coverage rider is necessary if the sewer backup is not a direct result of the rising floodwaters.
How to Deal with Water Damage
Dealing with water damage on a golf course requires prompt and effective action. Here are some steps to consider:
Obtain Information on Regional Hydrology
It is advisable to hire the expertise of an engineer or consult a USGS quad map to gain a clear understanding of the watershed. Moreover, it is essential to understand the flood potential.
Each golf course has unique hydrological characteristics, and awareness can help identify and address specific challenges associated with water management effectively.
Elevate Greens, Tees, and Fairways
Greens should be 12-18 inches above the recorded 100-year flood elevation. If achieving this height is impractical, aim for elevations aligning with 25- or 50-year flood levels.
Conversely, tees should be elevated to match 10, 25, or 50-year flood levels, depending on feasibility and site-specific considerations.
Lastly, owners should raise fairways to align with 2, 5, or 10-year flood levels. In cases where raising fairways is not feasible, consider re-grading them with minimum slopes of 3-6% to facilitate quick drainage and minimize water accumulation.
Implement a Well-Designed Subsurface Drainage
The primary purpose of subsurface drainage is to remove excess water that may accumulate in the plant’s root zone or cause soil saturation. Facilitating water movement through the soil profile helps maintain an optimal soil moisture balance, which is essential for plant growth.
To minimize the drawbacks and maximize the benefits of subsurface drainage, golf course owners should consider the turfgrass species, site characteristics, and management objectives during execution.
About T2 Green Insurance
T2Green Insurance provides comprehensive insurance that is customized to your club, resort, or golf management company, from industry professionals whose sole focus is insuring this class. We are dedicated to providing you with innovative products, underwriting expertise, and exceptional results so that your insurance needs are covered with confidence. Reach us at 844-223-9005 with any questions or so we can begin tailoring a package that works best for your club.
