A new white paper looking at ways in which municipal golf facilities can increase their use and improve their financial viability is now available.

Andy Staples of Staples Golf Design has worked extensively in the field of municipal facilities in the US. The new white paper, entitled Community Links, explores Staples’ philosophy and ideas in the area, as well as the history of municipal golf in America, why its current business model is failing, and pivotal trends.

The white paper aims to create a foundation that ultimately helps municipal facilities keep their doors open.

“Municipal golf in America has traditionally played a very important role in growing the game, and creating access for those looking to learn to golf,” said Staples. “The intention of this white paper is to present a real alternative for municipalities to consider when approaching their course’s future; the current model for many of these facilities just isn’t working, and closure, unfortunately, may make the most sense.”

Staples recently helped open the first Community Links project in Hobbs, New Mexico – Rockwind Community Links. This facility has a focus on expanding offerings for non-golfers, as well as focusing attention on beginners and family golfers.

The white paper uses data provided by the National Golf Foundation, as well as information ascertained in Hobbs during a two-day survey at the Rockwind Community Links.

“I thought it was important to document why certain municipal golf courses are failing, and put into context where this segment of the industry started to go off track,” added Staples. “I think it’s very important we continue to market the values of the game of golf and sing the praises of why golf courses in our communities are a good thing. The bottom line is, golf should be celebrated for the value it provides our society.”

The Community Links white paper can be downloaded here.