Before You Stake a Tee
Good early questions keep a course plan grounded in the site and honest about what still needs verification.
What should I assess first?
Start with the property boundary, ownership and access, existing uses, drainage, terrain, vegetation and any known constraints. Walk the site in more than one season or after rain if possible. Record observations separately from assumptions and identify which questions need advice from a land manager or qualified specialist.
How many holes can fit on a site?
There is no reliable count based on area alone. Shape, terrain, safe separation, shared public use, access, habitat and practical walking routes all influence capacity. Sketch alternatives and test player movement and likely flight areas on the ground before treating a hole count as settled.
What makes a throwing corridor fair?
A useful corridor presents an understandable challenge, provides a considered landing area and makes the consequences of a miss proportionate. Fairness does not mean every throw is easy. Test whether players can see enough to make a decision and whether plausible misses create avoidable conflicts.
Should tournament needs be considered early?
Yes. Arrival, staging, queues, access and event-day circulation can affect where holes and paths belong. Bring those needs into the planning stage while options remain open, then verify applicable competition and venue requirements separately with the responsible organisations.
Can existing trees define a fairway?
They can help shape a line, protect habitat and give a site character. Their role needs to be intentional, with consideration for root zones, maintenance, seasonal visibility, permissions and long-term growth. Avoid relying on a fragile branch or assuming vegetation work is automatically permitted.
How should wet areas be handled?
Observe them after rain, follow likely water paths and note how soil and vegetation respond. Consider routing around persistent wet ground and protecting drainage. Where work in or near wet areas is under consideration, seek relevant local technical and environmental advice rather than assuming a generic construction fix will work.
Does a concept plan prove a course meets competition rules?
No. A concept plan can communicate design intent and highlight questions, but it is not a compliance determination. Confirm current rules, event requirements, permissions and venue conditions with the relevant governing body, landowner and authorities for the specific project.
What should a first design conversation include?
Share the location, approximate site boundary, existing uses, access points, observed terrain and drainage, known constraints, project stage and the questions you need help answering. Avoid sending sensitive personal or confidential information that is not needed for an initial discussion.
How do I know whether a route is easy to follow?
Walk the draft with someone who has not studied the map. Ask them to find the next tee and explain where they expect play to travel. Note every hesitation, blind crossing and unclear turn. Improve the route or its cues, then repeat the walk in different conditions.
Who should maintain the finished course?
Agree responsibility before installation. Clarify routine mowing, path upkeep, vegetation care, inspections, storm response and who can close or alter an area. A course plan is more durable when maintenance staff help review access and workload while design choices can still change.