Three Times the Turf at The American Express

January 14, 2025 9:17 PM | Chris DeMain (Administrator)

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.



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