When it comes to building a new bunker there are a multitude of considerations to factor.

When deciding to add the right greenside bunker on 8 we first looked at the masterplan developed by Ian Andrew. His recommendation includes the new bunker and removing the existing bunker left of the approach. We then look at other factors such as drainage inefficiencies, existing turf conditions, stumps or tree roots. In the case of 8 we had three checkmarks.

A few years ago three end of life Austrian pines were removed. They left large stumps and root structures that spanned 25+ feet in every direction. We also dealt with a constant wet area between the green and cartpath where past drainage had been compromised. Both situations impact play and cause damage to golfers clubs but also our equipment.

Last fall we began the construction by removing existing sod and beginning to cut and fill the bunker area. During this process there is a lot of tinkering on the size of the bunker and also the alignment. We finished this first “edition” and allowed it to sit and settle over the winter.

In the last couple of weeks when weather has allowed, we began finalizing the rough grade. During this time we slightly changed the depth on the right side and pulled the left corner out slightly. It’s at this point where I like to constantly step back and look from the “turning point” of the hole typically where the players shot is coming from - this is something I learnt working with Nicklaus designs architect Chris Cochran and shaper Paul Garvie. On 8 in particular this is between the 100 and 150 yardage markers. It’s from that area that you have a better visual of the entire bunker area. I would estimate at least 40 trips back and forth through the process. This is also a great time to call in different sets of eyes for a different perspective. In most cases it’s a call to Kevin, Eric or Blehr for their input and what they may see that I don’t.

Once we’re happy with the rough grading we dig in our drainage lines. This process is easily my least enjoyable throughout. We put our heads down and power through to get to the steps that truly bring the bunker to life.

It was at this point we installed the new drainage between the green and cart path.

When we are preparing the bunker for sod we cut a ring with the sod cutter around the affected area. This aids in blending the new bunker to the existing turf surrounding it. We add 3-4” of soil throughout and shape what we can with the mini excavator. The most satisfying part for myself is hand raking the surround. Theres something special about putting the final touches on slopes(maybe it’s just me). We do this in the day or two leading up to the sod arriving. Doing it too far in advance and having a large rainfall can create an immense amount of work that could have been avoided. When I’m happy with the soil placement and contouring I will typically have our staff do an inspection so we’re all in agreement and nothing is missed.

Final steps are measuring the area and ordering the sod. Typically you add 5% for waste which includes off cuts, ripped sod and not coming up short. Sod arrives and we start with the largest slopes. They are the most time consuming to lay and spike. This is when I pass the reigns to Trent our foreman. He will use phrases like “my sod” and “I got this”. We spike the sod to ensure if a heavy rain is encountered the slabs stay in position. When the face is done this is when we can increase productivity by laying straight runs. This drastically speeds up the process and completes larger areas in good time. We then tie into the existing surfaces and create clean lines as much as possible.

When the last sod slab goes down there’s also a large sigh of relief. Sodding is one of the most labour intensive jobs we do especially this time of the year with our full season staff. We take a few minutes as a crew to admire what we’ve accomplished followed by high-fives and belly bumps all around.

Over the next few weeks we will be ensuring we apply adequate water to help the sod push roots. Once the base cannot be pulled up we mow it down to roughly 1 1/2” and kill the grass creating a natural liner. It’s at this point we can scalp the grass down to nothing and install the drainage pipe. We use a perforated pipe with a fabric sock that allows us to fill the drain line with bunker sand. This reduces the potential of contamination compared to using pea gravel.

The final step is sand installation. With our new flat bottom bunkers we put 4-6” of material throughout. We use a combination of the sand pro and water to compact the sand to reduce “fluffy” lies in the early days of play before the sand fully compacts.

We look forward to bringing this bunker into play. It’s a labour of love to see it come to life and hopefully I never find myself playing from it.

• Geoff