damaged areas are all influenced by how the rootzone behaves. As drainage efficiency declines or compaction increases, turf response becomes less predictable, and corrective maintenance begins to replace design intent. A stable, predictable rootzone allows playing characteristics to remain aligned with the original design objectives. That relationship was evident throughout the renovation at Crooked Stick. The team focused on preserving critical green contours and intended playing characteristics while improving soil structure below the surface. Seeing that work underscored how a reliable rootzone helps maintain the integrity of those design decisions well beyond grow-in. The shaping and surface refinement were essential, but it was the performance of the profile beneath them that ultimately allowed the architecture to function as intended over time. Across many projects I’ve visited, the same pattern holds true: when the soil is built to support uniform moisture, balanced porosity, and longterm structure, the course is easier to maintain. Turf response becomes more consistent, surfaces retain their intended character, and the course requires fewer adjustments that compromise design features. Good soil doesn’t replace good design, but it plays a critical supporting role in how consistently those design decisions perform over time. The future of golf course construction is becoming more thoughtful, more sustainable and more focused on long-term success. Water use, labour efficiency, resource management and environmental responsibility are now central considerations in nearly every project. Soil plays a major role in each of these areas. A stable, well-designed rootzone supports long-term efficiency and resilience, allowing the course to perform under a wide range of conditions. It allows the course to hold up under pressure from weather, traffic, or high player expectations. Additionally, it protects the investment that architects, builders and superintendents make in creating a course that can stand the test of time. For these reasons, more design teams are treating soil as a long-term investment in the course condition and playability. Inorganic porous amendments are one of the tools helping move this philosophy forward. They offer a way to build a rootzone that performs well from the first season and continues to support the architect’s vision for decades. The golf industry is continually evolving, but one thing remains constant: the soil beneath the turf influences everything above it. When we build better soil, we support healthier turf, more consistent conditions and a course that plays the way it was originally designed. Justin Olmstead is the market development manager at Profile Products. INSIGHT The Crooked Stick team focused on preserving critical green contours and intended playing characteristics while the soil structure below the surface was enhanced Photo: Profile Golf “ A reliable rootzone helps maintain the integrity of design decisions well beyond grow-in” 43
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