hollows and collection areas to provide strategic interest and more playable recovery shots.” A new Rain Bird IC irrigation system, designed by Greg Baer, has been installed and synthetic turf was used on tees and fairways. “The engineering beneath the synthetic turf and the topdressing within the surfaces replicates the characteristics of real grass when receiving tee and approach shots,” said Costello. “The design of each green has 10 to 12 hole locations to add tremendous variety to the course experience.” General manager Kara Owen said: “The change in our course size and the use of synthetic greens and tees has greatly reduced our water and chemical use. In addition, the hours that it takes to be sure they are weed free and meticulously managed to maintain the right conditioning, consistency and speed has also been reduced. This allows our teams to focus on other priorities both on the course and around the lodge.” There were several existing walking trails that laced through the golf course property. Costello considered how to route the course so golfers could experience the best views of the gorge and meadows. “The original fourteenth was a very narrow downhill par four with a small creek fronting the green, a signature pond and a breathtaking backdrop,” he said. “If you could place your drive in the ideal spot in the fairway, you enjoyed this awesome view and a relatively level lie. The tees for the new fifth hole places you in this same vantage point recapturing the thrill of this approach shot into this picturesque and dramatic green setting.” In place of the former driving range, a new eighteen-hole putting course, ‘The Little Eagle 18’, has been built, also using synthetic turf. “The putting course features realcourse strategy with creative and fun contouring such as elevated plateaus, ridges, collection hollows, def lection mounds and bumpers amongst rock outcrop obstacles and rough,” said Costello. “Each individual hole is set apart from the others amongst native trees and colourful and contrasting landscaping that add beautiful interest to the experience.” Owen said: “Both The Gorge 9 and The Little Eagle 18 putting course have added value to our lodge. More of our corporate groups have taken advantage of the courses. In our first 1.5 years we have focused on making golf approachable for all and focused on its ability to be a team building activity for groups. As we begin 2023, we will increase our focus on bringing more youth into the game of golf as well as giving our younger guests an opportunity to try golf when they visit.” 31 Photo: JMP Golf Design Skamania’s new eighteen-hole putting course, ‘The Little Eagle 18’, has been built on synthetic turf
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