February 2026 Outlook for Ohio

The average temperature will be below normal in February.  Precipitation will be below normal during the month. 

Discussion

The extremely cold weather over Ohio will moderate a little during the start of February.  Temperatures will remain below normal even though they will not be as cold.  An upper level trough over the northeastern U.S. will pull cold air from Canada to Ohio during the first few days of February.  The snow on the ground will also help to keep the air temperature below normal.  The trough will weaken during the second week of the month.  That will allow the upper level flow to turn more west-to east.  Temperatures during the second week of February will be closer to normal.  An upper level trough will develop again over the northeastern U.S. during the second half of the month.  More cold air will return to Ohio later in February.  The average temperature in Ohio will be below normal in February.

The flow of cold dry air from Canada will limit precipitation in February.  Most of the storms that will affect Ohio will be weaker systems.  Those storms will drop light snow over the state.  The main storm track will be far to the south of Ohio during February.  However, a stronger storm could bring rain and snow to the state later in the month.  Overall, the total precipitation in Ohio will be below normal during February.

When the PGA TOUR arrives at Pebble Beach for the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the world’s attention turns to the dramatic coastline, iconic holes, and championship-caliber competition. But for turfgrass professionals, the real story unfolds underfoot.

This year’s tournament once again showcases the precision, planning, and professionalism of the agronomy teams at Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill Golf Course—two vastly different tests unified by elite turf management.

Pebble Beach Golf Links: Precision on the Edge of the Pacific

Under the leadership of Pete Bachman, GCSAA, Pebble Beach continues its legacy of championship conditioning on one of golf’s most recognizable landscapes. With 18 years of GCSAA membership and five professional events as superintendent, Bachman oversees a property where agronomic detail is magnified by global visibility.

Pebble Beach plays to 6,989 yards (Par 72)—one of the shortest layouts on TOUR—but its agronomic setup makes it one of the most exacting.

Turf Profile:

• Greens: Poa annua maintained at .125”

• Fairways: Ryegrass / Poa annua at .450”

• Rough: Ryegrass / Poa annua at 2–3”

• Average Green Size: 3,500 sq. ft. (smallest on TOUR)

• Bunkers: 116

Those 3,500-square-foot greens demand elite surface consistency. With smaller targets and firm, coastal conditions rooted in sandy loam soils, green speed and smoothness are critical. The Poa annua surfaces—so synonymous with the California coast—require attentive moisture management, particularly with effluent water sources and Pacific winds influencing evapotranspiration rates.

Since last year’s championship, the No. 10 green has been renovated and the championship tee on No. 6 repositioned, further refining tournament presentation and playability.

A team of 29 agronomy staff members, supported by 20 tournament volunteers, executes championship preparation in a setting where sea level finishing holes meet elevated inland terrain. From sunrise maintenance shifts to final championship setup, execution must be flawless.

Spyglass Hill: Scale, Strategy, and Championship Detail

Just minutes away, Sean Sherbert, GCSAA, leads the agronomy team at Spyglass Hill. A Penn State turfgrass graduate and second-year superintendent at the property, Sherbert prepares a course that contrasts Pebble’s coastal exposure with forested corridors and strategic water hazards.

Spyglass plays slightly longer at 7,071 yards (Par 72) and features:

Turf Profile:

• Greens: Poa annua at .120”

• Fairways: Perennial ryegrass / Poa annua at .400”

• Rough: Perennial ryegrass / Poa annua at 3”

• Average Green Size: 5,000 sq. ft.

• Bunkers: 62

• Water in Play: 4 holes

Recent renovations to the No. 15 green complex expanded the putting surface by approximately 1,000 square feet, nearly doubling pinnable area and introducing new strategic elements near bunkers and a pond. Additionally, 50 trees were planted to enhance play corridors and long-term course architecture.

With 24 agronomy team members and 35 tournament volunteers, Spyglass’ sand-capped fairways and multiple water sources (effluent, reverse osmosis, microfiltration) reflect the technological and environmental sophistication required in modern turf management.

By the Numbers: Pebble in PGA TOUR Context

Among 2025 PGA TOUR venues:

• Pebble Beach featured the smallest greens on TOUR

• Ranked 3rd in total bunkers

• Was one of only two courses under 7,000 yards

Yet despite its shorter yardage, scoring resistance often comes down to firmness, green contour, and Poa annua performance—reminding us that agronomy plays as significant a role as architecture in championship golf.

Elevating the Profession on a Global Stage

For Ohio superintendents and turfgrass professionals, events like the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am serve as a powerful reminder: championship conditions are not accidental. They are the product of educated leadership, dedicated crews, precise mowing heights, calculated moisture management, and countless hours of preparation.

From Poa annua greens maintained at tournament heights to sand-capped fairways and renovated green complexes, the agronomic execution on display each February represents the very best of our profession.

While spectators see crashing waves and dramatic finishes on No. 18, turf professionals see surface consistency, rootzone management, bunker edging precision, and a team operating at the highest level.

That’s the beauty of tournament golf through the superintendent’s lens — the details matter, and the turf tells the story.

The RBC Canadian Open is heading back to Ontario, and this time it’s teeing off on the newly renovated North Course at TPC Toronto at Osprey Valley. At the center of it all is 20-year GCSAA member David Hunter, who brings over three decades of experience at this very site. Known for his steady leadership and attention to detail, Hunter is setting the stage for one of the most finely conditioned tournaments of the year.

TPC Toronto is unlike any other stop on the PGA TOUR. Built on a reclaimed gravel pit and refreshed with a renovation by Ian Andrew just last year, the North Course now features reimagined bunkers, new professional tees, and altered grassing lines that are ready to challenge the world's best. With a routing tweak that swaps holes 8 and 17 and strategic agronomic choices, players and fans can expect a distinctive and visually compelling test of golf.

The turf is tournament-ready from tee to green:

• Greens: Bentgrass/Poa annua mix, mowed to 0.100"

• Tees, Approaches, and Collars: Bent/Poa mix, maintained between 0.275"–0.300"

• Fairways: Bent/Poa mix cut at 0.375"

• Rough: Dense Kentucky bluegrass standing at 3.75"

This balanced blend of turfgrass delivers elite firmness and roll on fairways, smooth transitions on approaches, and reliable putting surfaces — all while withstanding the unpredictable Canadian climate.

Weather hasn’t made things easy. A long winter and early spring ice storms delayed preparations, forcing Hunter and his team to dedicate over a week to storm cleanup. But the 62-person agronomy staff, including 35 tournament volunteers, has risen to the occasion. From assistants like Aaron Hill and Scott Brook to equipment manager Jason Sharples, it’s been a full-team effort.

Spanning 620 acres, TPC Toronto's North Course is more than just a tournament venue — it’s an ecological landscape where wildlife like coyotes, turkeys, and osprey share space with two loyal course dogs, Bauer and Kala. It’s also a venue built to drain exceptionally well thanks to its sandy loam soil and underlying gravel base — a critical asset during a wet spring.

As the PGA TOUR returns to Canada, this event shines a spotlight on the talent and dedication of superintendents like David Hunter and the GCSAA members who bring the game to life. With tournament week now underway, the stage is set for a memorable RBC Canadian Open — built on precision, passion, and the power of the turf.

FULL TOURNAMENT SPEC SHEET:  CLICK HERE

June 2025 Outlook for Ohio

The average temperature will be near normal in June.  Precipitation will be near normal during the month. 

Discussion

After a cool start temperatures will quickly warm up to more summerlike levels in June.  A Bermuda high will produce southerly winds that will transport warmer, more humid air to Ohio.  The warmer conditions will persist for a few days.  Then an active storm track will bring alternating periods of cooler and warmer weather.  Another period of warmer weather could develop later in the month.  When all of the cooler and warmer days are averaged together, the average temperature in Ohio in June will be near normal.

The active storm track will bring multiple chances for significant rainfall in June.  There will be periods of sunny, dry weather in between the storms.  Slow moving thunderstorms could drop heavier rain on some locations on hot, humid days.  The total rainfall for June will be near normal.

Courtesy of Jay Hobgood, from THE Ohio State University Meteorology Dept.

A Masterpiece in Motion: The Turf Team Behind the 2025 Memorial Tournament

At Muirfield Village Golf Club, every blade of grass tells a story. And this week, that story is being authored by Chad Mark, GCSAA, and his team of turfgrass professionals as they prepare Jack Nicklaus’ iconic design for the 2025 Memorial Tournament.

The Memorial has long been a showcase of championship golf, but what truly sets it apart is the attention to agronomic excellence. Behind the scenes, Mark—a 27-year GCSAA member and Director of Grounds at Muirfield for the past nine years—is orchestrating a turf symphony that’s been fine-tuned through experience, science, and an unrelenting pursuit of perfection.

Turf Trials and Triumphs

Ohio’s erratic spring delivered an extra challenge this year, with above-average snow cover and April rains complicating early-season preparations. But for Mark and his crew, that’s just part of the craft. PrecisionAire subsurface systems breathe life into the USGA-spec greens, maintaining elite conditions regardless of the whims of Mother Nature.

This year brought some changes to the course layout too. The 16th tee was shifted 25 yards to the right and a greenside bunker removed—small tweaks with big impact for shot strategy. Yet through it all, the agronomy team’s mission remains the same: present a playing surface that demands greatness from the world’s best golfers.

A Crew Built for the Moment

Behind every championship course is a championship team. At Muirfield, that includes assistants Seamus Foley and Connor Quigley, infrastructure manager Andrew Kaprosy, and equipment manager Bill Claytor. They're joined by a 50-person full-time maintenance staff and a crew of 35 tournament volunteers. Add in 10 turf interns from programs around the world—from South Africa to SUNY Delhi—and you have a globally influenced workforce united by turf passion.

Let’s not forget Duke, the 2-year-old golden retriever who keeps spirits high while roving the fairways and offering moral support (and maybe a few friendly distractions).

Built by Nicklaus. Maintained by Masters.

Muirfield Village is more than a golf course—it’s a living canvas of turf artistry. Designed by Jack Nicklaus in 1974 and renovated by the Golden Bear himself in 2020, the club sits on a foundation of native clay with fairways that have been carefully topdressed over the years to optimize playability and drainage.

Every grass type is tuned to its environment: bentgrass across greens, tees, collars, approaches, and fairways. Kentucky bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescue stand tall in the rough, cut to a penal 4 inches. With 13 water hazards in play and 68 bunkers, shotmaking demands precision—and so does the turf maintenance behind it.

Legacy on the Line

This is Chad Mark’s 9th Memorial Tournament, but what makes his story remarkable is his legacy beyond the ropes. Eight of his former assistants have moved on to become superintendents themselves—a testament to the mentorship baked into Muirfield’s maintenance culture.

This tournament isn’t just about golf; it’s about growth. Growth of the turf. Growth of the profession. And growth of a community of agronomy experts who help the game flourish from the ground up.

The Takeaway

As the eyes of the golf world turn to Dublin, Ohio, this week, remember that greatness doesn’t just happen. It’s grown. It’s cut. It’s rolled. It’s irrigated, aerified, and nurtured by professionals who live in the margins between “good” and “unforgettable.”

That’s the quiet power of the superintendent. And at Muirfield Village, that power is on full display.

Follow the conversation:
Superintendent X: @chadmark614
Tournament X: @MemorialGolf
GCSAA X: @GCSAA
Learn more: GCSAA Tournament Fact Sheets

#MemorialTournament #GCSAA #TurfTalk #GrowingTheGame #GolfSuperintendent

Turf Tested: Behind the Scenes at TPC Scottsdale for the WM Phoenix Open

As the raucous energy of the WM Phoenix Open takes over TPC Scottsdale, the unsung heroes of the tournament are working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure pristine playing conditions. At the heart of it all is Brandon Reese, GCSAA, Director of Golf Course Operations, leading a seasoned agronomy team that has meticulously prepared the course for one of the most unique stops on the PGA TOUR.

Weathering the Desert’s Challenges

This year’s preparation came with a twist: an extreme drought. Phoenix saw a near-record-breaking dry streak of 159 days without measurable rainfall, a challenge that tested the limits of turfgrass management. Reese and his team leaned on reclaimed water sources and innovative maintenance practices to keep the playing surfaces in top condition. High temperatures during overseeding season added another hurdle, requiring the team to deploy grow lamps and fans to ensure the health and vibrancy of the ryegrass and Poa trivialis greens.

Course Enhancements and Strategic Adjustments

Beyond managing the climate, the TPC Scottsdale agronomy crew has made subtle but significant changes to elevate both player and spectator experiences.

• Ridge work on holes #6 and #12 enhances sightlines for fans, adding to the stadium-like atmosphere that makes this event so electric.

• The build-out for the famed 16th hole began in mid-September, ensuring the legendary “coliseum” structure is ready for the thousands of spectators who will transform it into golf’s loudest hole.

• Refined green surfaces after a tough overseed period have helped maintain smooth and consistent putting conditions across the course.

Meet the Team Behind the Turf

Reese, a 16-year GCSAA member, has a deep history in tournament prep, having hosted PGA TOUR events every year since 2008. His leadership is complemented by a staff filled with industry veterans, many of whom have spent over three decades maintaining the course. Key agronomy personnel include Superintendent Doug Hamman and assistants Aric Runge, Will Maier, Rylan Hulse, and Blake Cederberg. With an all-hands-on-deck approach, the team has been fine-tuning every blade of grass to ensure players face the best possible conditions.

Tournament Turf Details

• Par: 71 | Yardage: 7,261

• Greens: Poa trivialis / Bentgrass / Ryegrass overseed

• Fairways & Tees: Ryegrass / Fine Fescue overseed

• Rough: Ryegrass / Fine Fescue overseed

• Average Green Size: 7,069 sq. ft.

• Bunkers: 67 | Water Hazards: 3 (impacting 6 holes)

Ready for the Spotlight

With a firm, fast setup and expert conditioning, TPC Scottsdale is primed for another thrilling week at the WM Phoenix Open. While fans soak in the spectacle, the turf professionals who shape the course will be laser-focused on their craft—ensuring the action inside the ropes is just as spectacular as the atmosphere outside of them.

For more updates on the agronomy team’s work, follow @brandonleereese and @tpscottsdale on X.

Agronomy Takes Center Stage at the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

As the PGA TOUR shifts to the breathtaking California coastline for the 2025 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the focus is not only on the world’s top golfers but also on the dedicated agronomy teams that bring these historic courses to life. This year’s tournament, running from January 30 to February 2, will showcase the work of Pete Bachman, CGCS, at Pebble Beach Golf Links and Sean Sherbert, GCSAA, at Spyglass Hill. These professionals and their teams have spent months preparing to deliver pristine playing conditions despite unique environmental challenges.

The Masters of the Greens

Pete Bachman, CGCS – Pebble Beach Golf Links

With 17 years as a GCSAA member and 12 years with Pebble Beach Company, Bachman is no stranger to championship golf. This marks his second AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am as superintendent, a role that comes with immense responsibility. In the past year, his team has overseen a full rebuild of the 6th green and planted over 50 trees to enhance the course’s legendary aesthetics.

• Course Architect: Jack Neville & Douglas Grant (1919)

• Par/Yardage: 72 / 6,972 yards

• Turfgrass: Poa annua greens (.125” height of cut), ryegrass/Poa annua throughout fairways, tees, and rough

• Challenges: The unusually dry winter has resulted in firm and fast playing conditions, a departure from the typical softer setup for this event.

• Recognition: Bachman was recently named Superintendent of the Year by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Northern California.

His team of 29 agronomy employees and 20 tournament volunteers will work tirelessly throughout the week to keep the course in top condition, all while being watched over by the beloved golf course dogs, Rosco and Rosy.

Sean Sherbert, GCSAA – Spyglass Hill

In his first year as superintendent, Sherbert leads the charge at Spyglass Hill, a course known for its stunning coastal beauty and challenging layout. Having worked at Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, and Poppy Hills, Sherbert brings valuable experience to his new role. His team has been busy upgrading irrigation, adding drainage in key areas, and managing the impact of severe December storms that toppled 30 trees, including the iconic Cypress in the 16th fairway.

• Course Architect: Robert Trent Jones Sr. (1966)

• Par/Yardage: 72 / 7,041 yards

• Turfgrass: Poa annua greens (.120” height of cut), perennial ryegrass/Poa annua mix throughout fairways, tees, and rough

• Renovations: Expansion of the 6th green complex by 1,200 sq. ft., providing more strategic pin locations

• Future Plans: A full rebuild of the 15th green complex and additional Cypress and Oak plantings are scheduled for 2025.

Sherbert’s team includes 24 agronomy employees and 35 tournament volunteers, many of whom are former employees or aspiring turfgrass managers gaining hands-on experience.

Preparing for Championship Conditions

Both Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill present unique agronomic challenges that require precise management. The courses’ sandy loam soil, reliance on effluent water sources, and proximity to the Pacific Ocean create distinct growing conditions that demand year-round attention.

Key tournament prep efforts include:

• Irrigation Management: With lower-than-average rainfall, moisture levels are carefully monitored to maintain firm yet fair conditions.

• Fine-Tuning Greens Speeds: Pebble Beach’s Poa annua greens are set to roll at a Stimpmeter reading of 10.5, ensuring smooth but challenging surfaces for competitors.

• Bunker and Fairway Maintenance: Spyglass Hill’s 62 sand bunkers and tight fairways require meticulous upkeep to meet PGA TOUR standards.

A Legacy of Excellence

Beyond the week’s competition, both courses have storied histories. Pebble Beach will continue its legacy as a championship venue, hosting the 2027 U.S. Open. Spyglass Hill, meanwhile, remains a favorite among players for its demanding layout and stunning scenery—made even more special by its connection to Treasure Island, with each hole named after a significant place or character from the novel.

Follow the Action

As the world's best golfers take on these iconic courses, remember the incredible work of the agronomy teams behind the scenes. Follow @GCSAA and @attproam for updates, and celebrate the professionals who shape the courses that make the game of golf so spectacular.

Behind the Turf at the Farmers Insurance Open: Agronomy in Action

The Farmers Insurance Open, hosted at the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California, is more than a display of golfing excellence. It’s a testament to the meticulous work of agronomy professionals who craft pristine playing conditions on both the South and North Courses. This year's tournament, held January 22–25, 2025, showcases the tireless dedication of Devin Cullen, GCSAA, and his expert team.

Leadership on the Greens

Devin Cullen, Director of Agronomy

With 13 years as a GCSAA member and nine years at Torrey Pines, Devin Cullen has built an impressive resume, including four Farmers Insurance Opens as a superintendent. A Penn State graduate and California native, Cullen has overseen numerous course improvements, including drainage upgrades and maintenance optimizations, despite challenges like increased player traffic and historically dry winters.

A Team Effort

Cullen is supported by 40 agronomy employees and 26 tournament volunteers, a cohesive unit dedicated to delivering top-tier conditions. From assistant superintendents Travis Rebischke and Tim Phelan to the equipment management team led by Agustin Cisneros, each role contributes to the event's success. Even Callaway, the team’s 12-year-old boxer mix, adds to the camaraderie.

Preparing the Courses

Torrey Pines’ South and North Courses are masterpieces of design and maintenance, demanding constant attention to detail.

South Course

• Architect: William P. Bell and William F. Bell (1957), renovated by Rees Jones in 2001 and 2019.
• Par/Yardage: Par 72, 7,765 yards.
• Turfgrass: Poa annua greens (.095"), ryegrass overseed throughout fairways and rough.
• Challenges: Increased rounds have led to wear and tear, addressed through careful irrigation and management of clay soil conditions.

North Course

• Architect: William P. Bell and William F. Bell (1957), renovated by Tom Weiskopf in 2016.
• Par/Yardage: Par 72, 7,258 yards.
• Turfgrass: Bentgrass greens (.100"), ryegrass overseed across fairways and rough.
• Design Features: Larger greens (average 6,000 sq. ft.) and strategic bunkering for a unique player experience.

Meeting Challenges with Expertise

This year's tournament preparation was marked by unique challenges:

• Dry Winter Conditions: The driest winter in Cullen’s tenure required strategic water management, utilizing potable and reclaimed water to maintain turf health.
• Increased Play: Elevated traffic demanded innovative solutions to reduce wear, including targeted overseeding and advanced drainage.

Sustainability and Legacy

Torrey Pines not only serves as a premier golf destination but also exemplifies sustainable course management:

• Efficient Water Use: The course integrates reclaimed water for most areas, reducing reliance on potable sources.
• Upgraded Drainage: Over 4,000 feet of new drainage in low-lying areas ensures resilience during wet periods.
• Historical Significance: From its origins as Camp Callan during World War II to hosting the U.S. Open, Torrey Pines is steeped in history.

Behind the Greens at The American Express: A Spotlight on Turf and the Agronomy Team

The American Express PGA TOUR event, held January 16-19, 2025, at PGA West in La Quinta, California, is not just a test of the world’s best golfers but also a showcase of exceptional agronomy. With three unique courses—Pete Dye Stadium, Jack Nicklaus Tournament, and La Quinta Country Club—this event highlights the dedication and expertise of the superintendents and their teams, who bring these pristine layouts to life.

The Agronomy Leadership

Brian Sullivan, CGCS, MG, Director of Agronomy at PGA West

With 39 years as a GCSAA member and a dual degree in turfgrass management from Michigan State and Penn State, Brian Sullivan’s leadership ensures the courses are tournament-ready. His extensive experience is complemented by a team of seasoned professionals who manage the facility’s diverse playing surfaces.

Denver Hart, Pete Dye Stadium Course Superintendent

A GCSAA member for eight years, Denver Hart oversees the Pete Dye Stadium Course, known for its challenging design and immaculate conditions. With 55 agronomy employees and 24 international tournament volunteers, Hart’s crew ensures the course is prepared to challenge the world’s best.

Tim Putnam, La Quinta Country Club Superintendent

With 22 years at La Quinta and a commitment to innovation, Tim Putnam has overseen significant enhancements, including bunker renovations and a master tree plan. His dedication reflects a balance of tradition and modern agronomy practices.

Turfgrass Excellence

Each course in The American Express rotation demands precise turf management:

• Pete Dye Stadium Course

  • Greens: Poa overseed at .115”
  • Fairways and Rough: Ryegrass overseed provides vibrant aesthetics and consistent play.
  • Unique Features: Native soil, canal irrigation, and 90+ bunkers spanning 6.3 acres.

• Jack Nicklaus Tournament Course

  • Greens: Poa overseed, maintaining uniform speed and firmness.
  • Fairways: Overseeded ryegrass, with a strategic layout and eight water hazards.
  • Signature Design: Jack Nicklaus’ strategic bunkering creates challenges for every level of play.

• La Quinta Country Club

  • Greens: Poa trivialis/ryegrass overseed at .105”.
  • Fairways: Ryegrass overseed with a lush, playable texture.
  • Sustainability Initiatives: Tree removal and lake reshaping enhance aesthetics and playability.

Agronomy Innovations and Challenges

The preparation for a PGA TOUR event like The American Express goes beyond routine maintenance:

• Tournament Volunteer Program: Now in its third year, the program brings agronomy professionals from the U.S., Canada, and the UK to lend their expertise.
• Sustainability Focus: Each course leverages local water sources and modern irrigation practices to ensure sustainability without sacrificing quality.
• Course Enhancements: From new bunker sand at La Quinta to additional waste areas at PGA West, the courses continue to evolve while preserving their character.

A Testament to Agronomy Excellence

The American Express is more than a golf tournament—it’s a tribute to the dedication, skill, and innovation of agronomy professionals. From the lush fairways to the perfectly manicured greens, every inch of the course reflects the hard work of Brian Sullivan, Denver Hart, Tim Putnam, and their teams.

As the PGA TOUR players navigate the challenges of these world-class courses, they’ll be competing on the foundation of meticulous turf management and agronomic expertise.

For more behind-the-scenes updates, follow @pgawestagronomy, @Den_J_Hart, and @GCSAA on social media.

The RSM Classic returns this week to the stunning Sea Island Resort on St. Simons Island, Georgia, running November 21-24, 2024. As the PGA TOUR season winds down, this fan-favorite tournament showcases top-tier talent across two exceptional courses: the Seaside and Plantation courses.

A Tale of Two Courses

Seaside Course

Originally designed by Harry Colt and Charles Alison in 1929 and revamped by Tom Fazio in 1999, the Seaside Course is a par-70, 7,005-yard coastal gem. Known for its wide-open vistas and links-style play, it offers unique challenges with narrow fairways and heavy soil conditions.

Turfgrass Details:

• Greens: TifEagle bermudagrass, mown to .090”
• Fairways & Rough: Perennial ryegrass overseed, delivering vibrant color and consistent playability.

Plantation Course

Walter Travis’ original 1928 design was reimagined by Davis Love III in 2019. The Plantation Course is a par-72, 7,060-yard parkland-style layout. Its tighter fairways, lush surroundings, and 81 strategically placed bunkers create a formidable yet rewarding test for players.

Turfgrass Details:

• Greens: TifEagle bermudagrass
• Fairways: Platinum paspalum for its resilience and performance.
• Rough: TifTuf bermudagrass, optimized for durability.

The Team Behind the Green

Dylan Stafford, GCSAA, Director of Golf Course Maintenance, leads the charge with a decade of expertise at Sea Island. Backed by Ethan Jones, Dan Beckum, and a dedicated maintenance crew, the courses are prepared to shine on golf’s grand stage.

Key Course Insights

• Seaside Course: Average fairway width of 47 yards with 13 water hazards in play.
• Plantation Course: Average fairway width of 43 yards, featuring a new waste area on No. 13.
• Both courses rely on holding ponds for water and boast excellent drainage conditions to handle weather fluctuations.

A True Coastal Experience

Sea Island Resort isn’t just about world-class golf—it’s a destination for luxury and leisure. The RSM Classic perfectly blends the competitive spirit of the game with the serene beauty of Georgia’s coastline, offering an experience spectators and players alike won’t forget.

Stay tuned as the action unfolds, and follow @TheRSMClassic and @GCSAA for updates!