On Monday morning the course maintenance staff removed the black walnut tree from the tee complex on the first hole. The decision to remove this tree, and any other, is not something that is taken lightly. Before a decision to remove a tree is reached, it is discussed with the greens committee and a consultant, either the USGA or in this case the course architect.
There are several factors that go into the decision making process. While the tree was not a safety hazard and was in good health, it had a major impact on playability of the golf hole and on turfgrass quality. As evident from the picture above, players were forced to get the ball up in the air quickly in order to carry over the tree. Also, when it is fully leafed out, the landing area is blocked from players view. The turf quality was impacted both directly and indirectly. The grass beneath tree in the drip line was thin and it also caused shade issues on the two lower tees. The placement of the tree forced most players to use the left most portion of the teeing ground. This was in an effort to avoid the tree, thus reducing the usable area of the tee. With it being removed, it will allow players to use the right side of the tee without fear of hitting tree.
For more information on tree work click ( here ) for an article from the USGA.
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