Golf courses provide a comfortable place for golfers to play the popular sport. For golf courses to be economically viable and agronomically sustainable, specific needs and standards must be met. Since running a golf course is so expensive, many golf courses had to make the tough decision to decide between essential and nonessential maintenance plans to focus on what matters most. There are many strategies that have been used in efforts to lower the golf course maintenance expenses. However, there are main ongoing operating expenses for golf courses that can not be jeopardized.
Staff
Typically a considerable portion of a typical golf course is the maintenance budget. Recruiting and retaining reliable employees is currently one of the biggest challenges at golf facilities across the country. Consider offering more than competitors offer to onboard top talent and keep morale up for your course.
Training
Even the most skilled individuals require reinforcement to maintain their craft. Keep up with new technology and trends by promoting a culture that values safety and enforces a strong training program. Superintendents should also have training regularly to strengthen management skills for daily operations to run smoothly and more efficiently.
Fertilizer and Plant Protectants
One common method that is used to cut costs is to adjust fertility, pest control, and wetting agent and plant growth regulator (PGR) programs. Keep in mind that when reductions are overdone, it can become a double-edged sword. Even though you might be able to figure out initial savings, be cautious of that becoming larger issues that end up costing more in the long run.
You can be strategic with your applications, such as timely applications of wetting agents to reduce labor-intensive hand watering.
Fairways Maintenance
Fairway maintenance is a must, and the choices are either gang mow or cut with ride-on units. The second option is much more popular these days. There are also a variety of presentation options such as block, stripe, or cross mowing. There is a significant difference in total mowing time between the methods; some even vary between hours, which quickly adds up and impacts labor costs. It is important to figure out what works best for your course and what is worth it to you.
Keep in mind that using various sands, top-dressings and gravels will also reflect on the following comments:
- Size of greens and tees
- Drainage
- Number and size of bunkers
- Winter play
- Extent of paths
Course Accessories
Golf course accessories, such as ball washers, benches, and tee caddies, are expected to be offered at most golf facilities. The purpose of these course accessories is to make playing more convenient, however, purchasing, installing, and maintaining many of these items can be expensive. Some course accessories are not necessary, while others improve playing conditions. Assess what is needed for your course.
Workman’s Compensation
Many of your employees will be operating in the fringe hours and working with complex maintenance equipment. This work can put them and your customers at a safety risk. Accidents happen to even the best-trained employees. It is crucial to encourage a culture of safety that can significantly help reduce the number of incidents. Consider conducting team check-ins once a month to reinforce safety importance in all areas of operations. Tee to green insurance will be needed to protect you from the wide range of issues that can arise.
About T2 Green Insurance
T2Green Insurance provides the best customized and comprehensive protection for your club, resort, or golf management business. Our niche expertise and sole focus is ensuring this class, while our industry professionals are dedicated to providing exceptional results so that you can feel confident with your coverage. T2Green offers specialized coverage options that are unique in the industry. With our exclusive program unlike anything else on the market, you can feel peace of mind with protection that is tailored to your club’s unique needs. T2Green is driven by innovation and responsiveness in both coverage solutions and customer service. We understand the challenges that are presented in varying locations and seasons to write policies for clubs from coast to coast and everywhere in between so you can operate with confidence, no matter what conditions arise. Reach us at 844-223-9005 with any questions or so we can begin tailoring a package that works best for your club.
