2 - Planning, Design & Construction
New golf course development or renovations of existing facilities require consideration of environmental, economic, and site suitability factors. Evaluation includes review of onsite and neighboring ecological features, water resources, stormwater management, habitats, topography, historic and cultural use of the land, and a variety of other considerations. All factors must be carefully considered to ensure a viable and sustainable project.
This document is not intended as a blanket standardization, there are differences between every golf course location and project, resulting in variance in the design process and vision; the approaches outlined may not be applicable to all situations. Utilization of BMP guidelines help provide a framework for sound decision-making throughout each phase of a project.
Thoughtful use of BMPs during planning, design, and construction will help improve and protect the natural environment for current and future generations.
Regulatory Considerations
Federal, state and local permitting may be required prior to initiating construction. It is important to seek the advice of experts familiar with permitting during planning in order to determine what regulations may be impacted and whether survey or mapping of jurisdictional areas is required. The permits necessary for construction will vary based on location and scope. Early engagement among developers, designers, engineers, local community groups, and permitting agencies is essential to designing and constructing a golf facility that minimizes environmental impact and meets the approval process.
For new course projects, determine whether the property is zoned for a golf course development. A new course development will be subject to environmental regulation permits for the locality, such as a general environmental review, water withdrawal and wetland impacts, etc. For renovation projects, an early site meeting with an environmental consultant can help identify the extent of permitting required.
Permits from local, state, and federal agencies typically include general and project-specific conditions that must be followed. Contractors should be provided copies of the approved permit plans and conditions prior to bidding the work. Compliance is generally monitored by the golf course superintendent or consultants who assist with permitting.
Stormwater Management
Stormwater management planning is necessary to ensure sediment controls are in place during construction and ensure that runoff from the course doesn’t impact adjacent properties and waters.
For information about a construction site stormwater permit, reference the below links for submitting an application of Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR):
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Stormwater/construction/overview.html
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Stormwater/construction/forms.html
Wetlands
Boundaries and buffer zones of wetlands, ephemeral ponds, coastal zones, water bodies, streams, and rivers should be identified and mapped in accordance with local, Wisconsin, and federal regulations prior to beginning planning. Wisconsin DNR rules protect water bodies from loss and degradation through regulating draining, dredging, clearing, and filling within, or in proximity to, wetlands. Regulations include an authorization process implemented in coordination with the federal government through the Army Corps of Engineers. Wetland Confirmation, Wetland Identification, and Wetland Exemption Service Requests are available online in the DNR’s Water ePermitting system.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Wetlands/identification.html
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Wetlands/permits
The DNR has established a wetland screening process requiring customers applying for stormwater, waterway, and wetland permits to submit specific screening information to assist with making a preliminary determination of potential for wetlands on a given property. Only a wetland professional can verify wetlands are present on a property.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Stormwater/construction
Floodplains
Activities associated with construction or renovation within a floodplain zone will likely require a permit. Regulations have been enacted to reduce the potential for downstream or coastal flooding. Regulators will seek to ensure there is no net loss in floodplain area on the site during design and construction. For Wisconsin regulatory information and floodplain mapping, reference:
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Floodplains/documents/Floodplain_Development_Basics.pdf
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/FloodPlains/mapping.html
Erosion & Sediment Control
It is important to eliminate sediment in runoff prior to it leaving a construction project site and entering a waterway or wetland area. Wisconsin regulations establish criteria for erosion and sediment control; the erosion control plan for a construction site, in accordance with s. NR 216.46, Wis. Adm. Code, addresses the discharge of sediment and other pollutants that are carried in runoff from the construction site:
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/code/admin_code/nr/200/216/III/46
It is also important to follow city regulations for erosion and sediment control, as applicable.
Water Management
Wisconsin regulates the amount of water a course can use for irrigation and the source of that water. Pursuant to chs. NR 820 & 856, Wis. Adm. Code, a completed Water Withdrawal report form is required to report monthly volumes of the withdrawal on an annual basis. Reports must be submitted by March 1 for the previous year’s withdrawals.
Additional water management items to consider:
Dewatering Wells: Temporary wells used during construction; depending on design, these wells may need approval from the DNR’s Water Use and Wastewater programs
High-Capacity Wells: If new wells are to be installed and the sum of the pump capacities on the property equal or exceed 100,000 gallons per day, the wells need to be reviewed and approved by the DNR prior to construction
Amount of Water required: If the sum of pump capacity’s equal or exceed 100,000 gallons per day the property will need to be registered with the DNR
Reporting: If the property has a combined pump capacity of 100,000 gallons per day, a monthly water use must be reported to the DNR on an annual basis
Noting these items could save a project time ensuring awareness of possible permits and/or approvals that may be required related to water use.
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WaterUse/registration.html
http://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/281.pdf
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/WaterUse/documents/ConservationFactsheet.pdf
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/WaterUse
Rare and Endangered Species and Habitats
It is important to determine if there are any state-listed species or habitats of special concern in potential proximity to the project site.
To request a site review from the DNR:
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/erreview/review.html
Listing of rare and endangered species for the State of Wisconsin:
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/EndangeredResources/ETList
https://dnr.wi.gov/files/PDF/pubs/er/ER001.pdf
Registered Archaeological/Historical Sites
The State Archaeologist and the Burial Sites Preservation Office maintains a list of consultants qualified to conduct archaeological studies to identify and evaluate sites under various federal and state historic preservation laws.
Greenspace provided by golf courses helps reduce the urban heat island effect, supports ecosystem function, and provides wildlife habitats.
Planning
Proper planning is essential from an environmental, economic, and social perspective. Sound planning provides opportunities to optimize and integrate environmentally favorable characteristics into the property. It also minimizes expenses resulting from unforeseen construction requirements.
Best Management Practices
Comply with Federal, Wisconsin, and municipal laws and regulations
Assemble qualified team of internal and external stakeholders; retain a qualified director of agronomy and/or a golf course superintendent, golf course architect, and project manager at beginning of design and construction process to integrate sustainable maintenance practices
Establish objectives and conduct a site analysis and feasibility study
Incorporate an understanding of topography, access to water, management of water, energy, labor, and material sources into plan
Identify rare, protected, endangered, threatened plant/animal species; plan, design, construct to preserve
Archaeological awareness of the site and surrounding area should be considered
Preserve, maintain, and enhance adjacent wetlands, ensure proper permitting is obtained
Every new development and existing golf course should adopt a long-range plan, often referred to as a Master Plan, which allows phased projects to tie together seamlessly over time with one vision in mind
Careful planning requires the involvement of a qualified team of internal and external stakeholders. This includes an experienced golf course superintendent who is integral to the planning process. For course renovations, the superintendent can work directly with the golf course architect in determining the most suitable design and can inform the design team of issues that may impact maintenance or enjoyment of the facility. The superintendent’s knowledge of BMPs and the direct participation in planning and construction greatly affect the success of the project.
Access to Resources
It is important to establish and document an understanding of existing conditions. This identifies property boundaries, topography, vegetation limits, utilities, irrigation and drainage asbuilts, roads, wetlands, floodplain limits, and other jurisdictional areas. A good base map is a critical tool in planning a project to avoid negative environmental impacts and to determine the feasibility of achieving project goals. The development of a constraints plan, along with identification of a suitable water source (for new courses) may determine that a site is unsuitable for the intended golf project before expensive planning and permitting has begun.
The team should determine objectives for construction prior to getting started. Objectives should be well-defined, measurable, and time-bound. Complete a site analysis and feasibility study to identify needs, resources, obstacles, strengths and weaknesses of potential site(s), possible environmental and cultural impacts, potential opposition to development, timeframes, cost estimates, availability of materials and water sources, energy demands and accessibility, regulations or restrictions, and expected return on investment. Consider whether needs are feasible given existing resources. Select an appropriate site that can achieve the needs and objectives of stakeholders.
Sensitivity to Plant and Animal Species
Be sure to identify rare, protected, endangered, or threatened plant or animal species on the site. Reference the US Fish and Wildlife Service to identify species federally protected under the Endangered Species Act, in addition to Wisconsin rare and endangered species, and develop a long-term protection plan that preserves, promotes, or expands critical habitat.
Assess and identify wildlife habitat requirements (food, water, cover, space). Implement operations and areas that preserve wildlife habitat and migration corridors. Design and locate cart paths to minimize environmental impacts. Design crossings to accommodate wildlife movement.
Construct and place birdhouses, bat houses, nesting sites, and beehives in out-of-play areas. Plant butterfly gardens around out-of-play areas, including the clubhouse and other buildings. Retain riparian buffers along waterways to protect water quality and provide food, nesting sites, and cover for wildlife. Remove nuisance and exotic/invasive plants that have been identified as pests and replace with native species adapted to the site, based on site needs and preference. Minimize stream or river crossings to protect water quality and preserve stream banks.
Reference Pollinator Protection, Wildlife Habitat, Landscape for additional BMPs.
Archaeological, Cultural, and Historical Sites
Wisconsin is home to 11 federally recognized Native American tribes, in addition to other non-federally recognized tribes. Good stewardship includes respecting the traditions, history, and culture of Native Americans within the state of Wisconsin.
When a golf course is located near or being constructed in close proximity to an archaeological or historical site, a cultural advisory team is recommended, comprised of a qualified archaeological consultant, lineal descendants, and a stakeholder representative This team can help determine how to preserve existing archeological finds and historic sites. They can also determine optimal ways to incorporate unique features throughout the property which will highlight its cultural significance.
The Wisconsin State Archaeologist and the Burial Sites Preservation Office maintains a list of consultants qualified to conduct archaeological studies. Obtain information through conducting or preparing archeological assessments, site preservation plans, archaeological inventory surveys, cultural impact assessments, and gathering historical research. Archaeological awareness should be a priority of owners and stakeholders of the golf course and/or development.
Design
Proper design will meet the needs of stakeholders, protect the location’s environmental resources, and be economically sustainable. Retain a qualified Director of Agronomy, golf course superintendent, golf course architect, environmental engineer, and project manager at the beginning of the design and construction process to integrate sustainable maintenance practices in the development, maintenance, and operation of the course.
Routing should identify areas that provide opportunities for restoration and retain as much natural vegetation as possible. Where appropriate, consider enhancing existing vegetation through supplemental planting of native vegetation/materials in select clusters along holes, out-of-play areas, and along water sources supporting fish and other water-dependent species. Nuisance, invasive, and exotic plants should be removed, and if appropriate, replaced with native species that are adapted to the site.
Best Management Practices
Work with a qualified golf course architect, such as a member of the American Society of Golf Course Architects, with significant environmental advocacy experience
Design to minimize the need to alter or remove existing native landscapes; retain as much natural vegetation as possible; minimize infrastructure while achieving desired objectives
Water conservation should be an integral part of the design, efficiently capturing runoff, incorporating low maintenance areas and native or drought tolerant vegetation
Design to maximize play and minimize negative environmental impact
Design irrigation systems to minimize water use, drift or overspray
Plant turfgrass from Wisconsin-certified seed and select a species that meets needs of stakeholders, the regional environment, and the site
Consider implementing increased plant diversity into the site to improve habitats
Have engineering, the golf course architect, construction team, and golf course superintendent focus a significant amount of time on properly sizing drainage on and around the golf course property
When planning golf cart paths or other areas with potentially high vehicle traffic, try to predict the effect the trail’s layout could have on vegetation (e.g., running over vegetation due to sharp turns) or the layout of the irrigation system
Design to minimize the need to alter or remove existing native landscapes.
Selecting Turfgrass
Select a turf species that meets the needs of stakeholders while adhering to the principle of “right plant, right place.” Create turfgrass research plots and/or a research green to test for the desired species and cultivars for density, color, and tolerances. Refer to national trials (NTEP) for additional cultivar evaluations. Consider whether the maintenance team will be able to keep the turf stands pure and uncontaminated for the long-term when selecting one species and cultivar versus multiple, one species is usually a cost-effective selection. The putting surface, apron, tee, fairway, and rough height-of-cut are also determining factors for plant selection. Plant turfgrass from certified seed and check for the most updated restrictions of turfgrass propagation and cultivation.
Natural Landscape & Garden Areas
Most golf courses will include out-of-play areas that can provide enhanced course aesthetics, wildlife habitat, external sound/noise abatement, and natural cooling. An environmental landscape design approach addresses environmentally safe and energy-saving practices; and is economically important. The fundamental principle for the environmentally-sound management of landscapes is RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT PLACE.
Reference Pollinator Protection, Wildlife Habitat, Landscape for additional Landscape BMPs.
Greens
When designing greens, select a location with adequate sunlight, air flow and sufficient drainage to meet plant-specific needs. Work with the golf course architect to determine green sizes, slopes and layout. Green size is primarily determined by the topography, length and strategic layout of the golf hole. Ensure size and slopes are appropriate for the typical shot being played into the green while allowing for plenty of hole locations to provide for variety in daily setup and the ability to spread wear. Green slopes should be determined by the intended height of cut (HOC) which will influence green speed. Modern HOCs and green speeds generally require pinning areas to be sloped between 1.5 to 3 percent. Steeper slopes are acceptable in transition areas, ridges or rolls, but should be limited to a maximum 10 to 12 percent. Greens should be large enough to accommodate traffic and play, while remaining sustainable using existing maintenance resources. Mapping of final green surfaces is recommended for use in determining and recording day-to-day hole locations.
Consult with a golf course architect and soil scientist to select the appropriate method and materials for green construction to suit the site and character of the course, which may include USGA-recommended profiles or other proven means. USGA-recommended construction is the most common and research-proven method used today, requiring a sand-based rootzone material as designated by specific performance guidelines. Sand, pea gravel and amendments (e.g. peat moss or porous inorganics) should be sent to a certified soil testing facility for physical analysis to determine proper bridging, air space, and water retention and removal capacities. Native soil analysis will determine whether to incorporate a perimeter liner to prevent lateral infiltration. It is a good idea to install tracer wire along the perimeter to track and maintain the green shapes over the long-term. Sand used for construction and future topdressing should be from the same source.
Greens should be irrigated separately from surrounding turf where budgets allow. If the water quality from the main water source is poor, arrange for a water treatment process to correct poor water quality and consider designing greens to receive water separately from the main water source, leaving the potable water reserve for other uses.
Sand Selection for Greens
Sand selection is critical to successful green performance. Sand particle size in particular will greatly influence greens performance including water retention, drainage, and firmness. The following guidance is per USGA recommendations for putting green construction.
Finer sands retain a greater amount of water, while sands that are exceptionally uniform may fail to form a firm surface due to inadequate particle packing. The USGA recommends sands have a coefficient of uniformity (Cu) within the ranges shown in table 1. The lower the Cu, the more uniform the sand particle size, which presents a greater risk for unstable, soft greens. Sands with high Cu values will potentially provide firmer surfaces. Sand particle shape also influences stability - a rounded sand may require a higher Cu to provide a firm surface while a more angular sand with a lower Cu may pack sufficiently. The sand used to build USGA greens should be selected so that the particle size distribution of the final root zone mixture is as described in Table 1. The sand should be naturally occurring, not a manufactured sand produced by crushing rock.
Greens Mix Blending
Mix all greens mix components offsite. The blending equipment should be designed for producing consistent greens mix; bucket blending is not acceptable. Avoid excessive handling of peat and the blended root zone mix. The peat and sand should be moist during the blending process to ensure uniform mixing and to minimize segregation.
Physical Properties of the Rootzone Mix
The root zone mix should have physical properties tested per ASTM F1815. These performance parameters include saturated hydraulic conductivity (infiltration rate), total porosity, density, and capillary and aeration porosity. The root zone mix should have physical properties meeting those listed in Table 2.
Bunkers
Understand the planned size and number of bunkers/square feet of bunkers as it relates to strategic value of the golf course and resources available for daily maintenance. Limiting overall bunker square footage and/or incorporating native sand and scrub areas (if appropriate to the site) can save labor and maintenance resources. Consider bunker placement in relation to intended strategy of each hole, and where possible incorporate bunkers into existing landforms (e.g. ridges and slopes) that allow for a natural appearance. Review or adjust drainage patterns around bunker perimeters to prevent erosion and contamination caused by surface water flow and consider golfer circulation patterns at greens to allow adequate entry points and prevent concentration of turf wear. When determining bunker style, assess future labor, maintenance and playability impacts, allow for ample ingress/egress points for golfers and equipment, minimize potential wear areas and assess various methods of construction.
Bunker construction methods will vary depending on budget, availability of materials, and long-term maintenance expectations. Where maintenance budgets are limited, build bunkers with slopes and shapes that minimize erosion, contamination, and hand labor. If possible, incorporate sub-surface liners (e.g. fabric, aggregate) and use more angular sands, whether natural or manufactured, to further prevent erosion and extend the useful life of the sand. Bunkers can be designed to minimize water entry which helps reduce the need for bunker liners, thus reducing construction costs upfront and over the long-term.
Final determination of sand color, bunker sizes, methods of construction and locations should be coordinated with the golf course architect to meet the course needs, design goals, and sustainability objectives.
Additional bunker sand selection considerations include uniformity coefficient, infiltration rate, penetrometer value, angle of repose, crusting and set-up potential, and acid reaction.
Additional information:
Tees & Approaches
Minimizing the size of tee complexes can reduce maintenance costs, but can result in excessive wear that may lead to poor turf quality and long-term financial and resource impacts. It is important to select the size of teeing areas to accommodate daily and annual usage, plus allow for ample in-season recovery. Tee placement should utilize naturally elevated flat or gently sloped areas where possible to avoid the need for excessive resources (e.g. fill) during construction. Determine number and location of tees with the golf course architect to setup proper angles, relate to fairway landing areas, and satisfy the ability levels of the various users. Consider using a sand-based upper profile in construction to facilitate drainage and minimize potential compaction.
Reference for additional information: https://www.usga.org/content/dam/usga/pdf/imported/course-care/020301.pdf
Fairways & Rough
Fairway widths and perimeter layouts should be considered with the golf course architect to facilitate strategy on a per hole basis. Fairway width should generally be wider in the shorter landing areas to accommodate the recreational player, and narrower in select areas to challenge the expert player. When determining overall fairway size, consider the long-term costs of maintenance inputs and look to reduce excessive widths in areas of low golfer impact.
Use environmentally sound construction techniques and soil stabilization techniques to minimize erosion and maximize sediment containment.
Construction
Development of thoughtful planning and specifications can minimize costly changes during construction and assist with overcoming unforeseen challenges. A well-qualified contractor will have significant experience with golf course renovation or new construction and will be familiar with environmentally responsible construction methods.
Guide contractors to ensure efficient delivery, optimal safety, and environmental preservation; conduct a pre-construction conference with relevant stakeholders. Prior to starting, meet with the project team and contractor to review construction protocols, including defining lines of communication, scope of work, methods for reducing environmental impacts, and reviewing permit requirements. Maintain a construction progress report and communicate the report to the proper permitting agencies.
The golf course architect, engineer, irrigation designer and other key consultants should remain involved throughout the construction phase to observe the work being completed and ensure plans and specifications are being followed and permit requirements are met.
Stage construction to maximize site drainage, environmental conservation, and resource management. Build temporary construction compounds in a way that minimizes environmental impacts. For large renovation or new course projects, limit the amount of disturbed area at a given time; this may require completing and stabilizing a portion of the site prior to starting a new area. On smaller projects, consider narrowing the construction window to prevent environmental impacts.
Establishment of ground water testing protocols as well as coastal water sites before, during, and after construction will assist in assuring any potential impacts to the environment are actively observed and managed. Testing sites on properties where elevations vary should include testing sites above and throughout the gradient of the property to ensure impacts outside and on the site can be mitigated and properly recorded. Testing protocols should be determined in advance, including testing intervals for each site based on sensitivities toward surrounding features, ground water flows, proximity to drinking wells, coastal impacts, and other related factors.
Best Management Practices
Use only qualified contractors (with the guidance of a golf course architect) who are experienced in the special requirements of golf course construction; such as a member of the Golf Course Builders Association of America, or one with significant local golf course construction experience. Reference https://www.gcbaa.org/Resources/Find-a-Member/Individual-Directory/pagesize/10?p=CertifiedBuilder&Name=A
Collaborate with golf course architect, engineer, and irrigation designer to develop construction plans that clearly communicate scope of work and ensure all parties, including contractor, understand the scope
Complete construction with care to minimize environmental impact and financial ramifications; incorporate all conditions per the permitting process
Minimize environmental risk during grow-in and establish Special Management Areas where needed
Ensure state requirements are followed for erosion and sediment control
Incorporate proper drainage for containment of runoff, adequate buffer zones, and filtration techniques
Incorporate a stormwater “treatment train” approach; a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) may be required for construction activities
Schedule construction to maximize efficient turfgrass establishment
Provide monitoring of the work; maintain a construction progress report and communicate the report to the proper permitting agencies
Build temporary construction components and siltation barriers in a way that minimizes environmental impacts. Review all components before and after any rain event and make repairs where damage has occurred.
Design and construct maintenance facilities to provide optimal ventilation, containment of site runoff, pesticide mixing area containment, energy efficiency, and proper storage of pesticides, fertilizers, equipment, oils, solvents, and fuel
Understand, and when practicable, pursue certifications and recognized frameworks to support environmental stewardship programs, community engagement, health and wellness
Promote a healthy habitat for plant and wildlife
Grow-In
The soil preparation and turfgrass establishment phase is a critical time in the development process. The process must be carefully planned to minimize environmental risk. When using seed, schedule construction to take advantage of preferred grassing windows (i.e. August/September) to maximize turfgrass establishment prior to winter dormancy and utilize erosion control covers that will stay intact until adequate germination. A normal establishment period for cool season grasses can range from three to six months, but consideration should be given to the specific grow-in requirements of various seed types. Special Management Areas may require a different approach and should be calculated. Wait to remove erosion control measures (silt fence, straw wattles, etc.) until adequate germination of turf.
Most projects use a combination of seed and newly imported sod. The selection of the most appropriate grass, identifying drought and disease resistant cultivars, and determining starter fertilizer is critical. Consult with a regional USGA agronomist or a turfgrass consultant regarding best varieties of grass based on soil conditions, watering capabilities, and anticipated maintenance.
A “Grow-in” Fertility Program should create calculated rates of pre-plant and establishment nutrient guidelines. Soil test reports should identify amendments and nutrient requirements prior to planting. Potential long-term issues such as weed encroachment, disease, and drought susceptibility can be reduced with proper seedbed fertility.
During the establishment period, mow as soon as the sod has knitted-down and/or seedlings have reached a height of one-third greater than intended height-of-cut. Continue with frequent mowing at roughly twice the final height of cut. This will hasten establishment. Create a timeline when areas are planted to give consistent time for establishment.
Heights of cut will be determined by the timeline as turf becomes established and will be managed depending on area. Light verticutting and topdressing will improve playing surface and assist when reducing height-of-cut in each area. Reducing the height-of-cut often reduces weed establishment. Consider spot application of herbicides versus wide-spread applications.
Erosion and Sediment Control
Sediment occurs when heavy rain or irrigation flows over exposed soil causing particles to be picked up and deposited offsite. Sediment can also be dispersed when exposed soil is dry, and particles are carried by the wind. Water quality can be degraded if sediment and eroded soils reach surface waters. Turbid water can harm aquatic plants and impair aquatic habitats. In addition, soil contaminants such as pesticides and excess nutrients may be picked up and transported with eroding soil. This is of special concern for golf courses adjacent to ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers. It is important to ensure that erosion barriers are in place through soil preparation and remain throughout grow in.
Develop a working knowledge of erosion and sediment control management, ensure proper steps are taken and state requirements are followed regarding structures, materials, and design features. Wisconsin has erosion and sediment control regulations in place that require proper runoff control measures. Landowners must submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) to obtain construction site stormwater permit coverage from the DNR. Submit the NOI at least 14 working days before land-disturbing construction activities begin. Coverage occurs automatically 14 working days after the DNR receives a complete application, unless the applicant receives notification that the “clock has stopped” and additional information or review is needed.
More information on Wisconsin’s erosion and sediment control permitting process:
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Stormwater/construction/forms.html
Reference Surface Water Management and Water Quality Monitoring and Management for additional BMPs.
Wetlands
Wetlands provide critical habitats for plants, fish and wildlife, clean water, flood protections, recreation, and scenic beauty. Wetlands vary based on three factors: soil type, hydrology (timing, frequency and level of flooding or soil saturation each year), and vegetation. Wisconsin’s vegetation is divided into the northern forest floristic province, roughly the northeastern half of the state, and the prairie-forest floristic province, the southwestern half. The vegetation tension zone, a transitional band that corresponds to a number of climatic factors and has a mixture of species from both provinces, lies between these two areas.
Wetlands in Wisconsin are protected under state law and most are under the federal Clean Water Act. At the federal level, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE), EPA, U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), and maritime agencies may all be involved. Wetlands may also be protected by local regulations or ordinances.
Landowners and developers are required to avoid wetlands whenever possible; if wetlands can’t be avoided, they must apply for permits and receive approval to proceed with proposed wetland impacts.
Information on identifying and locating wetlands in Wisconsin may be found at:
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Wetlands/locating.html
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/wetlands/documents/WWI_Classification.pdf
https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/Wetlands/inventory.html
https://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/GuidetoWisconsinWetlandTypes.pdf
Prior to commencement of planning, boundaries and buffer zones of any wetlands, ephemeral ponds, coastal zones, water bodies, streams, and rivers should be identified, flagged and mapped as activities taking place within these boundaries (and buffer zones) may require permits. Wisconsin has rules which protect such water bodies from loss and degradation. This protection is achieved through the regulation of draining, dredging, clearing and filling within or in proximity to the wetlands.
Constructed or disturbed wetlands may require a permit to be an integral part of the stormwater management system. A professional consultant should be utilized to assist with permitting and the design of the project to reduce impacts. Always ensure proper permitting has been obtained, properly delineate, and establish buffer zones and erosion control before working in, and around, wetlands.
When incorporated into a golf course design, wetlands should be maintained as preserves and separated from highly managed turf areas with native vegetation or structural buffers.
Drainage
Adequate drainage is necessary for growing healthy turfgrass. A comprehensive plan for drainage addresses containment of runoff, adequate buffer zones, and filtration techniques in the design and construction process to achieve acceptable water quality. Drainage systems should be properly installed, repaired, and maintained to achieve optimal performance that positively impacts play and supports water quality.
Good drainage is achieved through both surface and subsurface drainage systems. Very flat areas may require subsurface drainage and steep areas may warrant installation of berms and interceptor swales, along with sub-surface piping and drain inlets, to slow surface runoff and reduce soil erosion. It is highly recommended that drainage installations be documented in their “as-built” form following installation so that sub-surface pipes are easier to find in the future for maintenance or tie-in purposes.
Surface Water: Stormwater, Ponds, Lakes
Controlling stormwater on a golf course prevents flooding of facilities and play areas, plus controls amount and rate of water leaving the course. Stormwater control also involves storing irrigation water, controlling erosion and sediment, enhancing wildlife habitat, and addressing aesthetic and playability concerns.
Stormwater on a course may not originate from the course, but from adjoining lands, including residential or commercial developments. An environmental benefit that golf courses provide includes filtering stormwater naturally to remove waterborne pollutants through planned “treatment trains” (i.e., vegetated swales, depressed landscape islands, and constructed wetlands). Through a treatment train, water is conveyed from one treatment to another by conveyances that themselves contribute to the treatment.
Methods of stormwater management include infiltration chambers that allow water to better enter the ground and recharge aquifers, retention basins that slow the flow of water off the property during heavy rain events while also trapping sediments, installation of swales with check dams to slow runoff, installation of erosion control barriers and use of mulch on seeded areas to assist with germination without soil erosion.
Eliminate or minimize directly connected impervious area (DCIA). Maximize the use of pervious pavements, such as brick or concrete pavers separated by sand and planted with grass. Special high-permeability concrete is also available for cart paths or parking lots.
Reference Surface Water Management and Water Quality Monitoring and Management for additional BMPs.
Reference Maintenance Operations and Energy Conservation for additional BMPs and detail regarding maintenance facility design, construction, and operations.
Reference Pollinator Protection, Wildlife Habitat, Landscape for additional detail regarding wildlife and landscape considerations.
Reference Irrigation BMPs for additional information regarding irrigation systems.
Reference Surface Water Management and Water Quality Monitoring and Management for additional information about surface water management and protecting water quality.
