Bunker Renovation 2013



       The bunker renovation project for the Alvamar Members' Course began in late April of this year. As of August 1, we have completed work on the bunkers of holes #6, #8, #9 and #10. This renovation includes removing old sand, inspection and repair of existing drainage, reshaping of the bunker edge and lastly, adding a fabric liner and white sand. 

1. The first step is to remove the old sand from the bunker. This is done by hand and shovel. The bunkers of the members' course hold anywhere from 4 to 30 tons of sand per bunker.

2. Reshaping the bunker edge. Over time, the surrounding grass can grow into the bunker, causing the original edge and shape to be lost. This encroachment is very common with bunkers surrounded by zoysia, due to the grass' characteristic lateral growth capability via stolons or "runners."

3. Bunker drainage is very important. Located beneath the floor of the bunker is a 4" perforated drain tube which is surrounded by pea-sized gravel. These types of drainage systems work well, but usually clog up after a few years. At this point in the project, the drainage is inspected and tested.

4. After all the soil work and shaping is finished, we can install the bunker liner. This is a special fabric that will prevent contamination of the bunker sand from the soil at the base and sides of the bunker. It will also help to reduce the amount of "washout" from heavy rains. The liner is tucked under the sod around the edge of the bunker and 6" sod staples are used to hold the liner in place.

 
5. The bunker is ready for new sand, which is crushed quartz from Arkansas. A single truck load is approximately 20 tons. The sand depth should be 4" - 6" throughout the bunker. 

- Chris Habeger