Yesterday we continued to finish the sand trap renovation on 18 fairway. Just to recap, this bunker was highly contaminated with large stones coming up through the sub grade. The last time the sand traps were renovated was back in 2000. It is suggested by most golf course architects that sand traps have a life span of approximately 15 years. Some traps age quicker depending on multiple variables such as weather, length of play, soil conditions, etc.
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| The process of applying the bunker liner. A few hose men and the right tools, the liner was applied in about 30 minutes! |
After last season we had targeted this bunker for a renovation because it was in the worst condition. During the off season we have been researching bunker liners and drainage for the sand traps. After consulting the green committee we decided to go ahead and turn this bunker into a model for a future renovation on all sand traps.
Our biggest problem with our bunkers is the contamination from the native soil. It is not uncommon to find stones, rocks or even dirt in sand traps. They make their way to the surface over time as they are maintained and used. During storm events, it is common that sides of bunkers are washed away and contaminate the sand with native soils. Contamination like this is a sure sign that there is either no liner to the bunker or the liner has failed. When our traps were renovated 13 years ago there were no liners installed.
Another problem for some bunkers can be drainage. Some traps are placed where a lot of surface drainage enters the trap and it can be a problem, especially when nightly irrigation occurs. Installing proper drainage that allows the sand to be dry is crucial to performance. The right liner can affect both of these issues.
We turned to a product call Klingstone. I consulted with a number of Superintendents that have successfully used this product and they are all happy with its performance. The owner of the product Bob McCormick who lives in the Denver Metro area offered to come out and assist us with the application process.
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| Bob McCormick (right) training us on the application process |
Klingstone is a polyurethane based product that turns the soil into a "concrete-like" substance. It has been in use for over 15 years. The product has been used successfully in Colorado at nearby golf courses. The product is sprayed onto the native soil and a "bathtub" is created. Like anything, preparation is the key. Bob mentioned that this was the best preparation job that he has ever seen for his product. A firm, dry, slightly sandy base is required for the product to bind together correctly. Once the product dries, the sand can carefully be placed into the bunker. We moved 20 tons of sand into the trap before the end of the day.
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| The final result of the liner applied. The next steps are to add drain pipe and add sand. |
Here is how our two big problems are solved. First, the base is impenetrable so no rocks or soil can break through and enter the sand layer, thus leaving behind a clean and consistent sand surface for playability. As far as drainage, you can see in the picture of the finished application that the drainage trenches have been spayed with the product as well. The drain tile that is installed (below) has a sock on it to prevent the sand from entering the drain. When water percolates through the sand, it hits the bunker liner and funnels down toward the drain line. The drain line is 4" in diameter and can quickly drain this 1,200 sq. ft. area.
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| Installing the bunker drain |
Finally, what the golfer will notice is the performance of the sand. It will take many weeks to have the sand in top shape for playability. Firming up this amount of sand is a tedious process. Our plan is to be committed to packing this sand over the next couple of weeks to achieve the appropriate firmness for our membership.
The sand goes through a particle analysis test to ensure best playability. After numerous years of research, the USGA has compiled guidelines on particle standards for the best bunker sand. Every region produces different sands in different parts of the country. Most golfers compare sand with color, but that is the last aspect of the sand quality to consider. Colorado does not produce a white "beach" sand. Typically our local sands are a light brown. When the sand is new and placed in the bunker, the contrast to the dark green turf surrounding the bunker is quite appealing. Preventing contamination to the bunker is what maintains the consistency and light color.
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| Adding sand to the bunker |
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