Throughout any golf season, a significant amount of time and resources are dedicated to managing bunker edges. String trimming requires careful attention, and edging is often necessary to maintain the original bunker shape. As bunkers age, edges become more unstable, and in severe situations they may collapse. Edge deterioration results in sand contamination, poor presentation, playability issues, and dedicating valuable resources to make repairs. The edges of some bunkers need to be repaired year after year due to heavy traffic or difficult growing conditions.
Bunker design dictates how edges are established and maintained. Common approaches include an exposed soil edge, rolling sod over the edge, or using a few layers of stacked sod to create an edge. Another option I’ve seen while conducting Course Consulting Service visits is a twist on the stacked sod edge where synthetic turf, like Durabunker or EcoBunker, is used to create the edge. Soil is then placed on top of the last layer of synthetic material and grass is established on the surface.
This alternative construction method comes with some helpful advantages. From a maintenance standpoint, string trimming around bunkers becomes easier and more efficient because operators do not have to carefully manicure the vertical edge. Since a synthetic material is used, bunker shape and stability are maintained for longer than typically possible with soil and/or grass. Another benefit is reduced sand contamination when compared to an exposed or deteriorating edge because soil is not washing into the bunker.
If a bunker renovation is being considered at your course, or you have bunker edges in certain locations that fail almost every year, it is worth exploring whether this option fits your needs. Artificial edges will cost more than soil and turf, but if they require less maintenance and deliver a better product with your bunker style, it could be a good option. Setting up a test bunker will help you evaluate if synthetic edges are worth the investment in your situation. Reach out to your regional USGA agronomist for more information on bunker maintenance and to see how our Course Consulting Service can help your facility.
Central Region Agronomists:
Zach Nicoludis, regional director, Central Region – znicoludis@usga.org
Tom Gould, agronomist – tgould@usga.org
