As the golf season begins to ramp up, most golf courses are operating with a fraction of the typical maintenance staff due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some courses have already taken action to reduce the 2020 maintenance budget in anticipation of a revenue shortfall this year. While maintaining a golf course with fewer employees and less resources is being implemented as a short-term adjustment to the current situation, the reality is this could become the business model moving forward at some facilities. While a quality golf experience can be delivered with a smaller maintenance team, golfer expectations for course conditions will have to adjust accordingly.

What to Expect in the Short Term

With the exception of golf courses located where it is warm year-round, spring is a time when many maintenance operations are beginning to switch from offseason projects to more routine maintenance that prepares the course for daily play. Even during a typical year, spring maintenance is challenging because of unpredictable weather and a long to-do list. Factor in fewer employees working less hours, daily logistical challenges to accommodate social distancing, and many other obstacles and productivity is inevitably reduced. So, what can golfers expect in the short term this season?