One of my favorite pastimes is reading my chapter’s newsletters. The latest Rocky Mountain GCSA Reporter included a piece by Joey Velasquez, assistant superintendent at Patty Jewett Golf Course in Colorado Springs. I don’t think I need to restate that this winter has been a challenge, to say the least. Warmer temperatures can create opportunities to open courses that are normally closed due to snow, but that also brings concerns about winter wear and tear on the turf.

I asked Joey if I could feature his article so that the information could be shared with other regions facing similar conditions. He agreed, noting that the more widely the message is shared, the better golfers will understand that these efforts are meant to protect the course and enhance the overall playing experience.

Thank you, Joey, for writing such an informative piece!

By Joey Velasquez, Class D, Petty Jewett Golf Course

Extreme drought puts considerable pressure on golf courses, creating both environmental and management challenges. Prioritizing water savings, protecting turf and ensuring the course’s long-term viability becomes essential. Many golf courses respond to these tough conditions by temporarily suspending golf cart use. Though this shift might be inconvenient for some, switching to a walking-only approach during drought delivers meaningful advantages for the course’s health, longevity, and ecological responsibility. 

The most immediate benefit of removing golf carts during drought conditions is reduced stress on turf and soil. Dry soil is far more susceptible to compaction, which occurs when repeated cart traffic presses down on already fragile ground. Compacted soil restricts root growth, limits oxygen flow, and reduces the turf’s ability to absorb limited moisture. By eliminating carts, courses significantly reduce surface pressure, allowing grass roots to remain healthier and better able to survive extended dry periods. 

Another key advantage is the prevention of turf damage in sensitive areas. Fairways, approach zones, and roughs already under drought stress are especially vulnerable to rutting and thinning caused by carts. Even with cart-path-only rules, repeated entry and exit points can deteriorate quickly when grass lacks adequate hydration. Walking-only policies help preserve uniform playing surfaces and prevent long-term damage that can take months or even seasons to repair. 

Removing carts also supports water conservation efforts. Turf damaged by cart traffic often requires additional irrigation to recover, which is counterproductive during drought restrictions. By minimizing damage, courses reduce the need for spot watering, reseeding and sod replacement, conserving water while maintaining playable conditions. This approach aligns with municipal water-use guidelines and demonstrates responsible resource management to regulators and the community.

From a course maintenance perspective, a no-cart policy during drought reduces operational strain. Grounds crews can focus on strategic turf preservation rather than constant repair of traffic-related damage. Equipment use, fuel consumption and labor hours associated with fixing ruts or worn paths are reduced, allowing staff to prioritize critical agronomic practices that protect the course’s long-term health. 

There are also environmental and experiential benefits for golfers. Walking the course encourages a deeper connection with the landscape and promotes a traditional style of play that many golfers value. During drought conditions, walking-only rounds reduce noise, emissions and disruption to wildlife habitats already stressed by limited water availability. 

Finally, eliminating carts sends a clear message of environmental responsibility and leadership. Golf courses are often scrutinized during droughts for their water use. Implementing walking-only policies demonstrates a proactive commitment to sustainability and preservation, reinforcing the course’s role as a responsible steward of the land rather than a strain on natural resources. 

In conclusion, removing golf carts during extreme drought conditions protects turf health, conserves water, reduces maintenance demands and supports environmental sustainability. While temporary adjustments may be required, the long-term benefits ensure the course remains playable, resilient, and environmentally responsible well beyond the drought period.