Fry/Straka begins renovation of the Heron Course at The Oaks Club
A year-long renovation project is underway at the Heron Course at The Oaks Club in Osprey, Florida.
Architect Jason Straka will lead the renovations and said the project aims to enhance playability and improve irrigation and drainage at the Heron Course, which was originally designed by Willard C. Byrd.
The Fry/Straka Global Golf Course Design man, who is the project’s principal architect, said: “The revitalised course will have new contours, better bunkers, interesting greens complexes and a new teeing system that will accommodate all skill levels of players.”
The new course will play 6,705 yards, slightly longer than previously. Strategic changes include at the sixth hole, which will feature a split fairway, and the tenth hole, which has been designed to be a ‘driveable’ par four.
Soil and water conservation features are also being incorporated as part of the project.
“The old soil from the greens will be reused to build the new tees, and the concrete from the existing cart paths will be crushed and reused as a base for the new paths,” said Nick Kearns, director of Green and Grounds. “The new greens will be constructed to meet the USGA recommended construction method for putting green construction.”
The club’s Eagle Course will remain open for play throughout the renovation of the Heron Course.